Abingdon News No. 57

www.abingdon.org.uk 23 Dan If the NHS could prescribe physical activity and sleep, it would be a wonder drug and the research is very clear on that. Tommy When the reality doesn’t live up to those expectations and the idealised picture that you had, you need to be ready to deal with that and adapt in a positive way. Sam Recognition and understanding is the first step in being able to deal with worry or anxiety. PJ Depression can often convince you that you’re alone and that’s just not the case… opening up to people was one of the most helpful things I did. OA Club Webinars Open to All The OA Club is keen to offer virtual events that spark interest for our alumni, but also for the Abingdon community and beyond. The Club was delighted to be able to organise two webinars open to all, including partnership schools, local residents and anyone who would find the content valuable. We’re grateful to the OA panellists who took part in two recent webinars - for lending us their time, expertise and experience. For a link to either of these webinar recordings email [email protected] Do look out for further ‘Old Abingdonian Talks’ in the future. OA Club Awards The OA Club runs a small grants programme. Individual OAs can apply for support of a personal or professional development opportunity, or groups of OAs can apply for experiences in sport, music, art, drama and more. Applications must be received by the OA Club Office no later than 1 May 2021. For full information, please visit the OA Club website. Abingdon OA Club Old Abingdonians Talk Sport Sports Broadcaster and OA Johnny Burrow (2014) hosted a panel discussion with fellow OAs and sportsmen Alex Fisher (2007), Graham Scott (1987), Charlie Quarterman (2017), Ollie Cook (2008) and Theo Brophy Clews (2015). Whilst acknowledging the impact that COVID-19 has had on the sports industry, it was a delight to hear of the ways in which our sportsmen have risen to the challenges that the pandemic has presented, their learnings from this unique period of time and their hopes for the future both personally and for the sports industry as a whole. “ “ “ “ Managing the Mind in Uncertain Times The OA Club was delighted to host OAs Dan Knowles (1988), Tommy Nicholson (2015), Sam Murrell (2011) and PJ Appleton (2008) for a webinar in collaboration with Abingdon’s Mental Health and Wellbeing department on 20 January. Each OA had something unique to contribute to this important and topical discussion. ” ” ” ”