My name is Jack Field, I am a 17 year old student from Kent. I first came into contact with handball during the explosion of interest caused by the London 2012 Olympic Games. However, I did not begin to play handball until my local leisure centre began a small satellite club. I quickly thrived in the sport, transferring many skills I had developed in other sports like cricket, badminton and football. In my very first official match I represented Kent Under 16s as captain, having rapidly developed my handball skills, under the coaching of Tibou Pastor, an experienced French player. It was at the U16’s county championships that I was spotted by Mark Hawkins, former 2012 Olympian, who expressed interest in my potential. Shortly after I was invited to the U16s National Academy where I received elite coaching from Mark Hawkins, Christopher McDermott and Ricardo Vasconcelos. Ever since I have continued along the World Class Pathway Programme, culminating in being selected to represent GB Under 18s in the European Handball Championships in Tblisi, Georgia (August 2016).

Most memorable sporting achievement to date

Receiving Best Match player in the final game of European Championships in Tblisi, Georgia for GB U18s.

Biggest sporting disappointment to date

Not being able to secure our first win as an U18s GB squad in the European championships in Tblisi Georgia.

Most respected sportsperson

Mark Hawkins, GB Handball Player at the London 2012 Olympic Games – for his devotion to the sport and his dedication to the development of the sport in Great Britain.

Ritual before sporting competition

Set playlist of music – Set routine when changing – Tying shoes in particular way.