Send off event celebrates EIS Sheffield’s class of 2012

More than 40 Olympic and Paralympic athletes who train at the English Institute of Sport – Sheffield (EIS Sheffield) came together for a special celebration event before embarking on one of the most important moments of their lives.

Jessica Ennis with the table tennis squad as well as other players and support staff from the EIS rallied together for the Olympic and Paralympic send off event.

The athletes took part in a parade around the indoor athletics arena at EIS Sheffield where they were waved off in spectacular style by hundreds of youngsters from Fir Vale School who were taking part in their own sports day at the venue.

Liam Pitchford, part of the celebrations, said: “EIS Sheffield is a great facility and it has everything you need to be the very best at your sport.”

Addressing the athletes, coaches, physiotherapists and other support staff, Steve Brailey, chief executive of SIV, said: “We wish everyone the best of luck for London 2012.  We’ll all be watching from home and look forward to welcoming all the athletes back to Sheffield after London 2012.”

For more information about getting involved in sport at EIS Sheffield visit www.eis-sheffield.co.uk.