Sebastian Coe's praise for kickboxer

Shannon Kennedy, 10, a pupil at Abbey CE Academy, is a world champion kickboxer in her age group and has represented her country.

In recognition of her achievements, Shannon attended an event hosted by the David Ross Education Trust (DRET), of which Abbey CE Academy is part, to celebrate sporting excellence across their network of academies.

Lord Coe, a former Olympic Gold medallist, was invited to meet the future sporting stars, and said: “Shannon is clearly a very talented and dedicated young sportsperson. I asked her if she had considered changing her specialism to taekwondo, which is an Olympic sport, but she said her passion lies in kickboxing and boxing.

“I think she wants to be the next Nicola Adams.”

Dan Sutton, Executive Headteacher at Abbey CE Academy, said: “Everyone at our academy is thrilled for Shannon and the progress she has made so far is remarkable.

“We are very thankful to everyone at the Trust for their hospitality and to Lord Coe for giving up his valuable time.”