The Welsh Development Squad came together this past weekend for a training camp held at the Sport Wales National Centre in Cardiff. The camp was attended by the most talented athletes from across the country, in which a total of three sessions were facilitated and coached by Weightlifting Wales. In preparation for the upcoming Welsh Age Groups, athletes took their training to the next level with an encouraging and energised environment there were personal bests and new training bests. Well-done to all on a successful training weekend.

Alongside the training, athletes underwent 2 workshops delivered by Sport Wales Athlete Development Practitioners around Fuelling for Performance. There were post workout snacks provided immediately following training such as yogurts, fruits, milkshakes and cereal bars with much more available. Athletes were separated into two groups, group 1 cooking for the team on Saturday and successfully chopping, cooking and preparing a range of ingredients for everyone to create a chicken burrito. Group 2 prepared lunch on the following day, mixing, mashing and frying up some banana pancakes and preparing a huge variety of toppings. The focus was on post workout nutrition and refuelling for recovery. It’s safe to say all athletes did an excellent job at cooking and everyone including all staff were refuelled.

Development squads play a pivotal role in nurturing and honing the skills of young athletes, laying the foundation for future national champions. These squads provide a structured environment where promising talents receive specialised training, coaching, and exposure to competitive opportunities. Athletes in development squads can refine their techniques, enhance their physical and mental capabilities, and develop a deeper understanding of their sport.

Development squads cultivate talent, camaraderie, and vital qualities like resilience and teamwork, essential for future champions. Investing in these squads’ nurtures athletes with the skills and mentality needed for success, significantly contributing to their nation's sporting excellence on the international stage. Well done to all those who have been selected for the squads’. Weightlifting Wales is excited for the future of this talented group of athletes.