Rob Richardson

Captain of the GB British Sitting Volleyball men's team since 2009.

Topics:

Diversity & Inclusion
2
Resilience & Adversity
2
Leadership & Peak Performance
2
Teamwork & Communication

Rob Richardson was introduced to Sitting Volleyball when it first started to develop as a sport in 2005 and he really enjoys the team element of the game.

After making his debut at the 2007 European Championships, Rob is now one of the more experienced athletes on the team, having earned 86 caps throughout his career. He wears the No. 7 shirt whilst competing and his dominant position on the court is Setter.

Having been born with a deformed foot, before having an amputation when Rob was 15, he had always focused on fitting in at school and not standing out because of his disability.

It is because of this that he never got involved in Paralympic sport until in his 20’s. But what has become apparent since is the power of sport and how embracing this can really change lives.

He went to a talent day organised by Paralympics GB and Sitting Volleyball was being set up in the UK, Rob joined the team and has not looked back since.

Rob helped in making an impact to young people’s lives and raising aspirations and is now looking to inspire your audience by sharing his secret of what it takes to be the best you can!

Book Rob Richardson

Featured topics include

Every athlete faces tough times, whether it’s injury, defeat, or personal challenges. In this talk, our athletes open up about the adversity they have experienced and how they found the strength to bounce back. Pupils will learn about the importance of resilience, determination, and staying positive in difficult situations. These are valuable lessons they can use in school, sport, and life.

Inclusion and diversity are essential for creating a positive and supportive environment for everyone. In this talk, our athletes share their experiences of embracing differences, breaking down barriers, and building inclusive teams. Pupils will be inspired to celebrate diversity, foster understanding, and stand up for others, both in sport and in all areas of life.

Even individual athletes rely on the support of a team. This talk highlights the importance of working together, trusting others, and playing your part. Pupils will hear how teamwork creates success in sport and how these skills can make a difference in school, friendships, and everyday situations.

Motivation plays a huge role in helping athletes perform at their best, and the same is true in the classroom. In this session, our athletes explain how they stay motivated in tough moments and what drives them to succeed. Pupils will pick up practical ideas for staying focused, setting personal goals, and using motivation to improve their own performance at school and in life.

What people say

The experience was first class, from the moment Rob arrived to the moment he left he had a smile on his face, was looking to engage with young people and certainly brought added value to our festival as a role model and an ambassador for sport.

James Payne, Suffolk School Games

The visit of Paralympic athlete Rob Richardson gave the children at the Kent School Games a greater appreciation of Paralympic sport and what is achievable.

Mike Bishop, Kent School Games

Similar athletes