Words by Smiley Team
A young boy decided to take on the challenge of completing 10 sports challenges before his 10th birthday – all in the name of charity.
Dexter Rosier, from Reading, aptly named his fundraising mission ‘Dexter’s Decathlon’, which saw him take on some of Britain’s biggest athletes to raise money for the charity Sport in Mind.
Sport in Mind helps to improve people’s mental health through sport and exercise. They work with the NHS to provide care to young people and adults alike, through physical activity programmes designed and delivered by health professionals.
"I love sport and helping others,” said Dexter. “I want to support Sport in Mind as I understand how important it is to keep active for my mental health. It makes me feel strong, positive and happy."
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As part of Dexter’s Decathlon, Dexter took on sports professionals such as Team GB player Amy Tennant and Olympic medallist Leon Taylor. The Mayor of Reading, Cllr Rachel Eden, even joined Dexter for a little archery at the Abbey Ruins.
Cllr Eden took to social media to praise Dexter’s commitment to raising money for Sport in Mind, calling him an “inspiration”.
“Sometimes I feel scared, sometimes I feel shy, sometimes I feel like I want to run and hide,” Dexter told RDG.Today. “So I cycle, play football, play tennis and run. This makes me feel free and happy. I feel like I really belong.”
At the time of writing, Dexter has raised more than £600 for Sport in Mind. The money will go towards developing and running Sport in Mind sessions to help people who struggle with mental health problems.
DONATE: You can support Dexter’s Decathlon and Sport in Mind by donating to Dexter’s JustGiving page.
VOLUNTEER: Take a page out of Dexter’s book, and get fundraising for Sport in Mind.
GET INVOLVED: Sport in Mind are looking for volunteers, so no matter what your talent is, get stuck in.
