Having recently moved into the senior group, Jade is entering an exciting new stage of her athletics journey now primarily concentrating on throws after previously combining both shot and sprints.
“I have been with Law for six years now,” Jade says. “I got involved with athletics through my primary school and ever since I fell in love with the sport.” Over the years, she has competed in numerous events and credits the club’s environment for helping her grow. “I’ve been lucky enough to be part of such a supportive team.”
The transition into the senior group has brought new challenges and learning opportunities, but Jade approaches it with the same positive mindset that has guided her development so far. Balancing higher training demands with university, coaching, and personal life has required adaptability, resilience, and patience.
Alongside representing Law & District AAC, Jade also competes for Edinburgh University. “I take great pride when representing both clubs and I am honoured to be a part of both,” she says, highlighting how each environment has supported her progression as an athlete.
Away from competition, Jade is currently studying to become a PE teacher a demanding role that requires careful balance. “As a current student teacher I have come across many hurdles trying to balance study life and personal life,” she explains. Flexibility has been key. “If I miss training, I go to the gym. This way I am still training and keeping fit.”
Due to placement and university workload, Jade hasn’t competed as much during the 2025 season. “Unfortunately I haven’t been competing that much this season,” she says, “however I still strive to train and get back to full potential for competition.”
Jade also coaches part-time with North Lanarkshire Council, an experience that has shaped her outlook on sport. “As a coach, I take great pride in viewing each child as their own person and developing them at their own level and comfort,” she says. She believes enjoyment should always come first: “Many kids don’t want to perform or compete — they just enjoy keeping fit, socialising with friends and getting out of the house.”
That philosophy carries into her own athletics. “As an athlete, it’s important to remember you are allowed to enjoy what you do and it does not have to be stressful all the time,” Jade adds.
A typical week for Jade involves long days and early starts. “University is three days a week with 6am wake-ups,” she explains, with training usually fitting in from Monday to Thursday. Social time tends to be saved for weekends to allow recovery and focus during the week.
Like many student-athletes, Jade has faced particularly challenging periods. “During exam season I found it extremely hard to balance all of my different needs,” she admits. Missing training impacted her fitness, but she is now focused on rebuilding as she continues to settle into the senior training environment.
One skill Jade sees linking all aspects of her life is resilience. “Resilience is such an important skill that athletes, coaches and teachers need to get through tough times,” she says.
Support from Law & District AAC has been a constant throughout her journey. “There is no crowd quite like a Law and District crowd,” Jade says. “No matter what competition, Law always stand out with support.” She adds that the club has provided her with “endless opportunities and support,” creating a strong sense of unity across all disciplines.
Her advice to younger athletes is simple and reassuring: “You have to be patient. Not every journey is perfect or smooth.” Jade encourages athletes to persevere through challenges, reminding them that “no matter what, Law will always support you during these times.”
As she continues her transition into the senior group, Jade Gray remains a strong role model within Law & District AAC balancing athletics, education, and coaching while embracing the next chapter of her development.
