A Serbian diver has spent the past 3 weeks in Sheffield, helping her to reignite her Olympic dreams following a decision by GB diving coaches based at Ponds Forge ISC. Milica Stjepanovic was given the opportunity to train alongside the GB diving squad, allowing her to pursue her ambition of competing in the 2012 London Olympics.
Milica, aged 23 - Serbia's female national diving champion, had her Olympic goal put on hold following the closure of the training pool in her home town of Belgrade when the roof collapsed. Following an appeal by her coach, a place was found with the GB squad in Sheffield to allow her to continue training. Milica arrived in the city at the end of January and spent 3 weeks training alongside the GB divers.
Cllr Sylvia Dunkley, Cabinet Member for Culture, Leisure and Streetscene at Sheffield City Council said,
"As a region, we have been working closely with Serbia to look at the possibilities of hosting some of their international training camps in Sheffield in the lead up to the Olympics. When Milica's coach approached us to see if we could accommodate her training we wanted to do all we could to help and are very pleased to be able to welcome her to the city to take advantage of our facilities and continue her development."
Nikki Smith, British Diving Coach said,
"Milica has shown significant improvement in her technique, even in the short space of time she was with us. We have worked with her to develop her 10m platform to ensure she has a competitive Olympic list in place.
"Since her arrival Milica has also learn a new dive from the 10m platform which carries one of the highest degrees of difficulty for a female diver. She has a good chance of qualifying for the 2012 Olympic Games, as long as she can continue her training."
Milica said,
"I think that the training conditions in Sheffield are excellent. I have improved my English and feel at home and happy here. I have friends and the city is full of young people. I will be returning to Serbia to finish my University exams but I hope to come back to Sheffield with the rest of the Serbian team to continue training. I would also like to study a Business Management Masters at the University of Sheffield."
Sinisa Zugic, Milica's coach commented
"I would like to thank Sheffield city and club for everything you have done for Milica and our club and diving.
Milica is fascinated with Sheffield, she told me that she learnt so much. I strongly support her wishes and plans to return to Sheffield for training and study and to make lifetime friends there."