'It’s not just about winning'- Stephen Miller reveals his passion for building confidence in young athletes

'It’s not just about winning'- Stephen Miller reveals his passion for building confidence in young athletes

Festus Chuma 13:45 - 16.11.2024

British Paralympian Stephen Miller has transitioned from a medal-winning career to empowering disabled children promoting inclusivity, self-expression and the transformative power of sports.

Three-time Paralympic champion Stephen Miller is no stranger to breaking barriers both on and off the field.

With 34 major international medals spanning a glittering career of over two decades, the Northumberland native has become an icon of perseverance and triumph.

But beyond the discus throws and podium finishes, Miller’s true legacy is unfolding through his work to inspire others to embrace the transformative power of sport.

“Sport has played a big part in who I am today, it’s given me a purpose and an identity," Miller shared as quoted by Chronicle Live.

Now retired from competitive athletics, Miller has turned his focus to SMILE Through Sport, a foundation he co-founded with his wife, Rachel.

Their mission? To break down barriers and empower disabled children to experience the joy and benefits of being active.

The initiative reflects Miller’s deep understanding of the hurdles many face when trying to participate in sport.

“I know there can be many challenges and obstacles that might get in the way of people doing sport, so we started SMILE to break down some of those barriers,” he explained.

By advocating for adaptable and inclusive activities, Miller is determined to ensure that sport becomes a platform for self-expression and confidence, regardless of ability.

Miller’s message to young people is clear: being active is about much more than competition.

“I talk to children about the importance of being active and moving your body, but also that it’s important not to compare yourself to others," he said.

“All through my life I measured my success based on improving my own ability. I think we get a bit obsessed about winning and being good at something, but that’s not everything.”

Miller knows firsthand how sport can be a vehicle for personal growth.

His unconventional throwing technique—a backwards club throw—defied traditional methods and became the cornerstone of his success.

“I wasn’t particularly talented when I first started, but I found a really unconventional tactic of throwing the club backwards. That was uncommon, but it worked for me. When I think about my success in athletics, I think it boils down to not being scared to be different.”

That attitude of embracing uniqueness is a central theme in Miller’s outreach work.

“Sometimes we try to hide away from that, we try to blend in so we can be accepted by others. In my case my success all comes down to trying something different. Embracing what makes me unique has allowed me to turn my weakness into a strength.”

Through SMILE Through Sport, Miller and Rachel aim to instill that same self-belief in others.

From educating communities about adapting activities to fostering confidence in young people, the foundation is creating a ripple effect of inclusivity.

“It’s about trying to educate people about how they can adapt sport for different people with different abilities. I think no matter what your ability or your age, you can always find a way to be active,” Miller emphasized.

Looking back on his storied career, Miller sees his experiences as a tool to empower the next generation.

“I worked really hard to have a successful career and so many great experiences—it would be a waste if I didn’t use that in a positive way,” he said.

“I want to put it all to good use and tell my story to empower people.”

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