ROYALS PAY SURPRISE VISIT TO LONDON STADIUM

By Daniel Mcinally

 

The Duke and Duchess of Cambridge, along with Prince Harry recently visited London Stadium to attend a graduation ceremony for more than 150 sports coaching apprentices. The Coach Core scheme is designed to help and teach apprentices who are between the age of 16 and 24 technical sports skills and coaching, with a look and emphasis towards employability.

It was a surprise visit from Kate, as it was her first public appearance since she announced the due date of her third child. Prince Harry said that it was fitting to be back in the stadium, that five years ago hosted the 2012 Olympic & Paralympic Games, and in July & August hosted the IAAF World Athletics Championships & IPC World Para Athletics Championships.

“At the time (2012) William, Catherine and I were looking at the issues, and we wanted to tackle it together with our newly formed Royal Foundation. It was clear that the three of us believed that sport could be such a powerful force of good,” Harry said.

“We knew that with the enthusiasm that swept the country during the summer, we had a window of opportunity to bring the right people and organisations to the table, to make something exciting happen, then the idea of Coach Core was born.”

The three were visibly seen enjoying themselves in the London Stadium dugouts, before meeting with West Ham United Club Captain Mark Noble, and manager Slaven Bilic. Also in attendance were Judy Murray, Max Whitlock and Will Greenwood, who all took part in masterclasses in their respective sports as part of the showcase event.

“It was my first time meeting royalty and, of course, it was a huge honour to meet and talk to them,” Bilic said. “They are very down to earth and know about football, while we also had a very interesting discussion about the project.

“We spoke about how important Coach Core has been in giving kids a chance, with a clear path to a good education and the opportunity for a better life. When I was young there wasn’t opportunities like this available. 

“The kids are enthusiastic - it means so much to them and it was a big pleasure to spend some time with them.

“I’m very proud to be a part of this Club and all of us connected to West Ham are very proud to be a part of this project.”