Ben Bowns

Ben is a young Ice Hockey Netminder who has pushed himself to the limit of both fitness and achievement. In a sport which receives little funding or publicity he is passionate about what he does, works hard for his team mates and strives to be the best in his chosen field. At just 20 years of age he has won 11 league titles, 5 national championships, 3 senior cup medals, represented England at U'13, 14, 15 & 16, and with GB has won 5 World Championship medals including 2 Gold. This year he was selected for the GB mens squad at the World Championships. At the U'20 World Championships he was awarded Netminder of the tournament award and MVP for team GB. He is passionate about sport and fitness, concerned about rising obesity levels and the general lack of health awareness and believes strongly that if young people participate in and enjoy sport there is more chance that they will go on to lead healthy lifestyles. He helps to coach young players at his local club, encouraging fun, particpation and teamwork. He has helped with the School of Excellence coaching and this year was asked to help with selecting young netminders for the England trials. He is studying to be a PE teacher, as part of which he worked at a local school where in his words he tried to make PE lessons fun and exciting. He is totally dedicated, motivated and hard working all Olympic characteristics. At a time when young people make news for the wrong reasons I believe Ben is an example of what they can achieve.