Will faced multiple extensive treatments during his early childhood because of a rare congenital disorder named arthrogryposis that affected all four of his limbs. There was yet another challenge waiting for Will when he was diagnosed with cancer. His strong will to face the challenging treatments and positive support from family helped him fight through. During recovery his grandmother bought him a table tennis table to keep him occupied when he could play outside. Little did he know that his natural talent for this sport and rigorous training he pursued would lead him to become a world champion. His dream came true when in 2014 Will claimed the gold medal at the World Championship in China and again at the Rio summer Paralympics 2016. In 2017 he was awarded England’s Most Excellent Order of the British Empire (MBE) recognition for services to the sport of Table Tennis. Will is currently the Commonwealth Games Ambassador for the Gold Coast Games in Australia and he is also involved in sports and disability advocacy organizations such as Kent Sports Trust Foundation, Pepenbury and Disability Sports Coaching.

You are world’s no. 1 Paralympic table tennis player. Can you tell us about some key milestones along the way for this achievement?W: There are a few, but an early one that springs to mind was travelling to china on my own and training there. It was a total eye opener, the way they train. Not only that, I didn’t speak any Chinese so it really was a case of head down, train hard.

You have won numerous medals. Which is the most memorable championship for you and why?W: My most memorable was London 2012. Playing in front of a home crowd was incredible. I came away with a silver medal, I felt I had let the crowd down but still, it was my most memorable and enjoyable championships.

What kind of training program do you follow for competition?W: Generally when I am training for a big competition, my diet is very strict. I also do a lot of gym work, on table practice, exercise and match play.

What challenges did you face during your school years? How did you motivate yourself to face those challenges?W: I think the biggest challenge I faced in school was the fact that I missed a fair amount. Apart from my disability, I had cancer as a child. I underwent chemotherapy and wasn’t fit to attend school for a period of time. My motivation was the fact that I wanted to live and since having cancer, nothing has ever matched up to that challenge. Therefore, I now feel like I can achieve anything.

Who is your favorite sports celebrity? Which of his/her quality do you admire the most and why?W: Rafael Nadal. I love his fighting spirit.

Who is your inspiration?W: I have a one year old daughter, Bella. She is my inspiration and everything I do now is for her.

What are your other hobbies?W: I love sport. I follow many, particularly football and tennis. I also enjoy food and travelling.

What is your favorite place to visit? What do you love about that place?W: I train in Sheffield but my family live in Brighton. Therefore my favourite place to be is back in Brighton with my daughter walking along the sea front.

What tips/advice do you have for those in our community who are interested in playing table tennis?W: Join a club. Table tennis clubs are usually very inclusive and welcome all ages and abilities.

Any special message for our community? W: Follow your dreams. Believe in yourself. Every hurdle is an opportunity.