Staffordshire Synchronised Swimming Star

Since graduating from Staffordshire University in 2005 with a degree in Psychology, Health and Exercise, Zoe Cooper has won a number of medals in various competitions around the country and overseas.

She said: “I have to say all the tutors in Sport & Health were so supportive during my time at uni and I don’t really know how I would have continued both my swimming and studies if I’d gone somewhere else.”

In 2005, Zoe won the gold and bronze medals in the trio and solo events at the British Masters. Other successes have included the World Masters Championships in 2006, where she won the bronze and silver medals in the solo and team events. She also attained the team silver medal at the British Championships and the solo gold at the Egyptian Open, both in 2006.

Zoe coaches the Regional 13/14 Development Squad and the Thomas Telford School Team which has an attendance of over 40 girls.

She is currently following a rigorous 18 hour-a-week training regime in preparation for international competitions in Norway and Sweden later this year as well as the Olympic Trials in May. This is alongside her full-time job as a Sports Development Officer for Shropshire County Council.

Zoe said: “Synchro is an amazing sport that is not only physically demanding but mentally challenging. I have been doing it since the age of 11. I was really into dancing, swimming and gym so when I saw the sport on TV I knew it would be perfect as it combines all elements of these sports.

“After joining Walsall Synchronised Swimming Club and winning the club championships a year later I had the bug of competing. I have worked exceptionally hard over the years and worked my way up, competing and collecting medals at County, District and National level.”

Zoe is currently looking for sponsorship to fund her trip to the next World Masters in Perth in April 2008.