Bridgwater & Taunton College (BTC) is thrilled to announce the appointment of Olympic Athlete Laura Gallagher as the new Trampolining Coach, effective from Wednesday 4 September, marking the start of the new academic year.
Laura, an Olympic trampoline gymnast with two decades of international experience, brings a wealth of expertise and enthusiasm to the role.
Laura’s illustrious career includes representing Great Britain at the highest levels of trampolining. With eight World and European Championship medals, including four gold, two silver, and two bronze, Laura’s achievements are a testament to her dedication and skill in the sport. Her journey began locally in Bridgwater, attending Wembdon St Georges and Haygrove School, and later Strode College to facilitate her training commitments.
In addition to her athletic accomplishments, Laura has balanced a rigorous training and competition schedule with academic pursuits, earning a psychology degree from the Open University. Her professional background spans roles in primary, secondary, and alternative education.
With 15 years of coaching experience, she currently supports pre-school sessions at Quayside Trampoline Gymnastics Club, where she has been a member for nearly 25 years. Laura is also an athlete mentor with the Dame Kelly Holmes Trust and other organisations.
Laura’s passion for trampolining started at age six under the guidance of Helen Wheller. Initially involved in various sports, Laura’s dedication to trampolining intensified after her first international competition at age 15, which propelled her to focus on the sport full-time.
“It’s an honour to take on Helen’s role as College Trampoline Coach, especially after I started my trampoline journey with her all those years ago. I have lots of lovely memories from that time, and I hope I am able to afford BTC students the same happy memories and opportunities as I had. I hope I can continue Helen’s legacy.”
Laura will be stepping into the role previously held by Helen Wheller, who has been instrumental in developing Team BTC’s trampolining provision over the past 30+ years. Laura aims to continue driving this well-established programme, providing students across the South West the opportunity to study at BTC while advancing their trampolining skills, regardless of their level.
Helen Wheller, Ex-Team BTC Trampolining Coach, commented:
“Whilst I am sad to be retiring from Team BTC after 37 successful years, I am delighted to be handing over the role of Team BTC Trampolining Coach to Laura. I had the privilege to coach Laura on her Olympic journey as a 5-year-old when she was part of a team at St George’s Primary School in Wembdon. Early on, she showed potential to excel in this sport, which led her to compete at the 2021 Tokyo Olympics. Laura can use this wealth of experience to pass onto the new Team BTC squad starting in September.”