As the Paris 2024 Paralympic Games approach, athletes across the United Kingdom are preparing for a significant milestone in their sporting careers. In anticipation, para-table tennis player and British Elite Athletes Association (BEAA) Ambassador Will Bayley has encouraged his peers to enjoy the occasion as much as they focus on competition.
Drawing from his extensive experience as a four-time Paralympian, Will offered invaluable advice for his fellow Paris hopefuls, emphasising the importance of enjoying the experience, managing pressure, and embracing the unique camaraderie of the Games.
Reflecting on his first Paralympic Games in 2008, he recounts the overwhelming joy of being selected through a wild card. “It was unbelievable,” Will recalls. “I threw my phone up in the air and cried a little bit. It was one of the happiest moments of my life because I never thought I would be able to compete at a Paralympic Games.”
This initial euphoria, however, soon gave way to the pressure and expectations he felt from both himself and his desire to do well for others.
Looking back, Will acknowledges that his youth played a large part in how he perceived the Games. “I was young, 18 or 19, and I struggled to put it into perspective. Now that I’m older, I can see it more clearly,” he says.
Will’s journey through subsequent Games taught him vital lessons about managing pressure. “In Rio 2016, I won, but I didn’t enjoy the competition that much,” he admits. The intense focus on winning overshadowed the joy of participation. However, by the time he reached Tokyo 2020, his perspective had shifted.
Reflecting on his past experiences of focusing solely on competition, Will adopted a different mindset. “I told my housemates: ‘Let’s enjoy this. Let’s take it all in,’” he says. This new approach made the experience far more fulfilling for the Paralympian.
Will’s key message to athletes heading to Paris 2024 is to savour the experience. “It’s important to enjoy the experience rather than just focusing on winning,” he advises. “You can’t perform at your best if you don’t enjoy it.”
The 36-year-old emphasises the significance of soaking in the atmosphere, exploring the Olympic Village, and bonding with teammates, and one of his favourite aspects of the Paralympic Games is the sense of being part of a larger team.
“You feel part of a bigger team, not just about table tennis, but about GB, about being part of a bigger group,” he says.
The BEAA Ambassador also highlighted the importance of mental health and seeking support when needed. “Most sports have sports psychologists. It’s crucial to talk about it and be open and honest,” he suggests. Recognising when the pressure becomes too much and seeking help can make a significant difference. “You don’t want to waste the opportunity to embrace and remember the Games for the good things, not just the pressure.”
For those who may struggle with shifting their mindset, Will recommends reaching out to teammates, coaches, and support staff. “The BEAA is always here for you during the Paralympic Games,” he says.
As Will prepares for his fifth Paralympic Games, his advice to fellow athletes is clear: “Be present with the people around you, be a good person, and try to take in your surroundings. Enjoy every moment, because these are memories you’ll cherish forever.”
With this mindset, Paralympians can look forward to a memorable and rewarding experience in Paris 2024.
