Ferguson gets top advice from sporting experts

Along with fellow Dale Farm athletes – Sam Bothwell (tennis), Ben Fisher (athletics), Liam Glynn (sailing) and Brendan Irvine (boxing) - Ferguson enjoyed one-on-one guidance to help him progress his career.

Ferguson won gold at the Commonwealth Youth Games (CYG) in Samoa in 2015.

The Belfast Royal Academy pupil followed up his CYG 100m backstroke gold with a silver medal in the 50m backstroke, clocking 26.19.

He also made a real splash at the World Junior Swimming Championships in Singapore, setting four Irish junior records in the 200m, 100m (twice) and 50 metres backstroke races.

In partnership with the Mary Peters Trust, Ulster Rugby star Dan Tuohy was among the local experts who provided advice and shared with the athletes what it means to be a professional sports star.

Sports nutritionist Dr Sharon Madigan talked about the importance of eating well andsports psychologist Dr Mark Elliott spoke about maintaining mental toughness. Sports journalist Jim Gracey gave his tips on dealing with the media.

The Dale Farm Athletes’ Academy Masterclass is one of the benefits provided to the five athletes selected to be in Dale Farm Athletes’ Academy each year. The athletes also receive a £1,000 bursary to assist them with the costs of being an elite athlete, such as buying equipment and traveling to competitions abroad.

Dame Mary Peters, President of the Mary Peters Trust, said: “The masterclass is a great opportunity for young athletes as many will never get the chance to sit down at the start of their career one-on-one with experts like the mentors we have today. We are grateful for Dale Farm’s support.”

Dr David Dobbin CBE, Dale Farm’s Group Chief Executive, said the Academy programme and Masterclass provides the best of young sporting talent with financial support and mentoring to help them compete at the highest level.