More about David Heard
David Heard
An in-depth association with the renowned training organisation, the Leadership Trust, where David went from being one of the original clients to tutor and trustee, lead him into a greater understanding of human motivation, drive and ambition. Skills that he uses in all aspects of his work today.
As the innovative creator of the unique holiday company, Club 18-30, he experienced first-hand the effects that sport could play in enjoyment and growth. In those early days, before the club scene even existed, the company featured an incredible sports programme - water skiing, sailing, scuba diving, wind-surfing, canoeing, para-gliding, horse riding, tennis, snow boarding and skiing among others. Plus adventure trips like jeep safaris, treks and white-water rafting. Again he has put this unique experience to good use in subsequent ventures and projects.
This has enabled him to work successfully with athletes across a range of sports from extreme endurance events (the Sahara Marathon and the Ironman triathlon) through athletics (track and field), golf, tennis, cricket, competitive rock-climbing, martial arts, football, rugby, skiing, American football, and motor racing.
And through the charity Sportability, David exercises this understanding in the development of sports programmes and events for people with paralysis. It is his phrase “taking the ‘dis’ out of disability” with the corollary “focusing on ability” that has been the guiding principle of the organisation.
After two long periods of virtually full-time study with Newcastle College refining and honing his skills, and post-grad studies in Cognitive Behavioural Therapy and Neuro-Linguistic Programming, David turned to assisting individuals with his 1-on-1 Life Coaching sessions. It is, he says, “The culmination of a life well lived.”