Imogen's Story
Imogen from Surrey Super 1s has Asperger Syndrome and ADHD, this meant she really struggled with the sensory overload at school. She found herself ‘masking’ to fit in but this just meant she was exhausted when she got home. Not surprisingly, this took a serious toll on Imogen and the rest of the family. Within months she was not attending school at all.
In October 2022, her mum saw a flyer for Super 1s and contacted Surrey Cricket Foundation to find out some information.
Over the next few months, Imogen developed quickly as a player and in 2023, enjoyed several milestones. She has played for a Girls Super 1s Select Team in a mini-tournament involving Surrey Wheelchair Cricket Squad and Sanderstead Ladies. Later that summer, she played in Super 9s Tournaments against teams from Hampshire, Kent and Sussex.
She used to find it difficult to maintain friends. Now she has a group of 6-8 regular friends through cricket. She had the confidence to be Mascot at Surrey v Somerset T20 Blast game last June – and Chris Jordan mentioned she was instrumental in Surrey winning their first toss of the season!
Imogen’s experience from Super 1s has helped turn her life around. She has since returned to school and she also has a plan for the future. Despite only being 13, she champions women and girls being involved in sport and wants to continue to work to raise the profile of women and help to remove some of the obstacles that still exist.
“I love going to Super 1s. I feel happy and safe and enjoy playing where the professionals practice”
Inspire Award
In 2024, Imogen won one of our four 'Inspire Awards', due to her remarkable journey of personal growth through cricket. Despite facing challenges with Autism and ADHD, her passion for the sport, inspired by cricketer Alice Capsey, led her to embrace cricket through Super 1s. Her involvement has helped her build confidence, make friends, and develop as a player whilst also championing women and girls in sport.
For the first time in Inspire Awards history, the award was also presented to Imogen's mum, Steph, in recognition of her contributions too.
This wonderful moment left everyone deeply moved, with not a dry eye in the house, as both mother and daughter were celebrated for their impact, together.
The award winners between them showcase the development that can be made by young people living with disabilities through involvement with Super 1s.
Hear more about Imogen's inspiring story in the video below.
Imogen
October 2024