Kaitlyn Soden from Northumberland has won the Spirit of Sport Award at the Lord’s Taverners Sporting Chance Awards held at Guildhall.
This was the second occasion the UK’s leading youth cricket and disability sports charity has hosted the awards, which celebrate the achievements of young disadvantaged and disabled people who have refused to be defined by their circumstances and who have excelled at their chosen sports.
The awards also recognise the invaluable contributions of some of the people behind the scenes, the organisers and coaches, parents, carers and supporters. Special guests in attendance included three Paralympic medallists, Wheelchair Tennis players Alfie Hewett and Jordanne Whiley, and swimmer Ellie Simmonds.
Soden has overcome numerous personal difficulties due to having a range of disabilities and communication challenges. Despite this Kaitlyn found a sport where she could put these challenges to one side. Five years ago, Soden chose swimming because she was terrified of water and last year saw her compete in her first mainstream competition and a number of club events.
Click here to view a video of Kaitlyn: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=zpz-vePpixA