Adam Peaty’s coach discusses the Olympics and what female coaches bring to the world of sport on International Women’s Day
Mel Marshall says Adam Peaty is “bouncing around” at the prospect of competing in the Olympic Games this summer. “There’s only so many things that can bring that kind of inspiration,” she says. “The Olympics gives people something to look forward to, it’s the next stage in our Covid recovery. The language should be ‘let’s make it happen’ and it’s a privilege to be part of it.”
Peaty’s coach is relishing the prospect of a games many fear are cursed. The pent-up athletic energy, she believes, could make it one of the greatest Games if it goes ahead. If you are looking for doubt or diplomatic equivocation, you will not get it from the 39‑year‑old double Olympian turned ceiling-smashing coach.