ESSEX Paralympic athlete, Bebe Jackson, has emphasised the impact of grassroots sporting participation and attentive coaching as she reflects on the bronze medal she won at the 2025 World Para Athletics Championships in New Delhi this year.
20-year-old Bebe, a former grassroots footballer from Harlow, competes in T44 sprinting events at international track and field competitions. She competed in the 2023 Commonwealth Youth Games and won the silver medal in the discus F42-44/F61-64, becoming the first English female para-athlete to win a medal at the Games. Making her international debut, Bebe competed in New Delhi and claimed bronze in the 100m T44 event. She also finished third in the 200m T44.
Also a European long jump record holder, Bebe spoke during a keynote speech to Essex County FA staff on Wednesday 17th December, featuring a background on her journey, and the successes, motivations and stories from her sporting career to date, plus what it has been like to navigate life, professional sports and a physical disability of the lower limb.
Before concentrating on athletics, Bebe played grassroots football, and says she enjoyed participating in the game: “It’s something I’ve always loved. I think a grassroots sport background helped to propel me to this [success], and it’s helped me in a lot of ways. It’s helped shape me resilience-wise, helped me improve my self-esteem, helping to get my point across. It’s helped shape me in so many different ways – it helps you to become a better person in sport overall.”
And, during the course of her involvement in sports so far, she’s worked with coaches who she looks up to: “My coach at the moment at my club, he’s hands down probably one of the best coaches I’ve ever had. He understands me and supports me in whichever way he can. I think it’s very vital to have a good coach who understands you. You’re the athlete – so always put yourself first. Always focus on yourself and your wellbeing. And just don’t put all the pressure on your shoulders.”
If you’d like to find out more about the opportunities to get involved with grassroots football, visit www.essexfa.com or interact with the Essex County FA on social media.
Regards,
