Βι¶ΉΤΌΕΔ

My name is Emma Groundwater, I am 18 and live in Ealing. I am going to be carrying the Olympic torch on Sunday 6th April from Bayswater Road to Lancaster Terrace at precisely 11.43am if all goes to plan.

It was in February that I was nominated by my PE teacher for all the coaching that I do. I have coached four netball teams, ages 8-16 for the past three years. This incorporated training them every week and attending their matches every Sunday as members of the West London Junior netball league.

I also serve on the committee as young representative in which I give across my views and ideas regarding improvements to the league.

Coaching Adults

I work with about sixty ladies quite regularly. Coaching adults has been a different experience, in some instances the adults proved they were harder to handle than the children! I was the youngest person, yet was able to pass on my knowledge and expertise to these players.

My work in the community also resulted in my being in a podcast for volunteering in sport. I have gained a Community leadership award, a level 1 netball coaching award and an umpiring C award to help facilitate my coaching and community work.

My family, friends and teachers are extremely pleased and impressed with my selection to carry the Olympic torch on route to the Beijing 2008 Olympic Games. My family especially, are not only proud of the things I have achieved but feel this is a well deserved reward recognising my contribution to sport in the community.

Personally I am very proud by the fact I am able to represent young people in a positive light, as I feel at times there is too much negativity in the media surrounding us.

My family are preparing a celebration to mark the occasion and obviously will be there to cheer me on. My mother in particular has already felt the need to advertise my achievement widely which has led to a certain amount of embarrassment on my part!

My own thoughts regarding being nominated is that although I was shocked to discover I had been selected I feel it is a great honour and privilege to take part in such a historic event.

Do you think young people get a fair press? Your thoughts are welcome.Μύ

Or alternatively, if you like Emma have a passion or a story that you want to share, get in touch. Email your local reporter ramaa.sharma@bbc.co.uk