Former BMX star Stephen Murray visits the Academy
Liverpool FC welcomed a special guest to the Academy last week as former world champion BMX rider Stephen Murray paid a visit.
Murray was one of the most renowned names in BMX until tragedy struck in 2007 when a horrific crash left him paralysed from the shoulders down.
Despite his misfortune, Stephen never lost the fighting spirit that made him a world champion and in 2017 he released a book - entitled 'Live Strong' - to help inspire those who face similar adversities.
Murray visited the Kirkby site to deliver a presentation to members of the Reds' U23 and U18 squads on his life experiences before answering questions from the youngsters.
On Murray’s visit, Academy director Alex Inglethorpe said: “It was a privilege to welcome Stephen to the Academy and learn of the struggles and battles he has had to overcome. He is an extremely impressive individual whose story is really emotional and inspirational.
“From speaking with some of the players, they were equally impressed by Stephen’s sheer drive and determination to overcome the many issues he has encountered. I hope that they were able to take something away from the visit and use it to focus on their own drive and determination to be the best players they can be.”