The Duke and Duchess of Cambridge are visiting Essex for a very special reason.
They went to meet with those involved in the Coach Core program, a unique sports apprenticeship program.
The program targets communities which have the highest levels of youth unemployment and social deprivation and aims to involve them in sport.
The Duke and Duchess of Cambridge arrive at @WeAreCoachCore in Essex. The apprenticeship programme helps young people who are not in education, employment or training to build a career in sports coaching. pic.twitter.com/JHEN3SM8Uy
— Kensington Palace (@KensingtonRoyal) October 30, 2018
Excited about the potential of Coach Core’s effect on local youth, the royals travelled to learn more about how it helps young people who are not in education, employment, or training to build a career in sports coaching.
They met with participants of the program, listening to their stories, and encouraging them with their own words of wisdom.
Now in its third year, @WeAreCoachCore continues to build strong partnerships with local organisations. Today, The Duke and Duchess find out more about two of these: @sportforconf and @SEGCtweets, both of which have employed multiple apprentices through the scheme. pic.twitter.com/rdqPDN8gX6
— Kensington Palace (@KensingtonRoyal) October 30, 2018
Pairing up with some of their youngest participants, the Duke and Duchess joined in on fun tennis and indoor athletic coaching sessions.
Kate enjoyed a game of tennis with some young athletes while William practised his long-range, javelin throw.
The Duke and Duchess of Cambridge join in with tennis and indoor athletics @WeAreCoachCore coaching sessions. pic.twitter.com/8nNm4D9BzL
— Kensington Palace (@KensingtonRoyal) October 30, 2018
They also played a game of Boccia, one of the sports tailored for individuals who face barriers to participation.
The players are seated and throw a ball as close to a target as they can.
Their Royal Highnesses meet @WeAreCoachCore apprentices and graduates, and learn how the scheme in Essex is getting the local community involved in sport. Coach Core targets communities which have the highest levels of youth unemployment and social deprivation. pic.twitter.com/1LXPhWzbqL
— Kensington Palace (@KensingtonRoyal) October 30, 2018
A shared love of competition seems to tether the two together, for their seen waving their hands in the air in triumph with big smiles for their team.
The result was a tie!
Their Royal Highnesses take part in a game of Boccia - one of the sports provided by @sportforconf, which offers sporting opportunities for individuals who face barriers to participation. pic.twitter.com/ZvXL6DazPJ
— Kensington Palace (@KensingtonRoyal) October 30, 2018
The program also has a branch dedicated towards girls’ gymnastics, aiming to instil Olympic-driven ambition for young girls.
The Duke and Duchess watch gymnasts in training at the gymnastics centre -@WeareCoachCore was established by The Royal Foundation in 2012, shortly after the London Olympic Games and driven by a desire to build upon the legacy of the Olympics. pic.twitter.com/hwJQOdkiqZ
— Kensington Palace (@KensingtonRoyal) October 30, 2018
The mum has been easing back into her royal obligations since taking a break to spend some time with their three children earlier this month.
The royal couple seem to have enjoyed themselves and loved connecting with youths involved in and leaders of the amazing Coach Core program.
