Former Olympic Sprinter Brings Speed Expertise to Chelsea's Young Talent

When asked about the highlight of his career, Adam Gemili doesn't mention his European gold medal in the 200 meters, but instead recalls his role in the British team's relay victory at the 2017 World Championships in London. This choice isn't surprising, given his affinity for team sports. "If I could relive one night, it would be that one," Gemili shares with Sky Sports. "I'm grateful to have been part of that history. I have videos of it from my parents' phone - it was incredible, especially since it was Usain Bolt's last race." Gemili reflects on the odds being against them: "We weren't necessarily the four fastest athletes, but together, we formed the fastest team in that stadium. The Jamaicans and Americans were strong contenders, having won gold and silver in the 100 meters. Athletics is an individual sport, but in a relay, the team aspect can make all the difference. We came together to achieve something special, defending our home turf. This team environment is where I thrive, and it's what I've grown up with." Before becoming one of the country's top sprinters, Gemili's first love was football. He was part of Chelsea's academy from 2001 to 2008 and still dreamed of a football career when he was selected for the 2012 Olympics at 18. "I had planned to return to football, but after being part of the Olympics, I realized this was my new path." Gemili still talks about football with a tinge of wistfulness, like any academy prospect who didn't quite make it. "I grew up playing football; it was all I knew. My dream was to play for England or hear the Champions League anthem. Being a ball boy at Chelsea used to give me goosebumps." He credits his time at Chelsea for teaching him discipline. "They showed me how to be professional, handle pressure, and do the right things. I probably wouldn't be where I am today without my time at a club like that." Now, at 32, Gemili has announced his retirement from athletics and is excited to launch his 'speed academy.' He's already working with Chelsea's 13- and 14-year-old academy players. "I started working with them in September or October, teaching them about speed and proper acceleration. You're teaching them how it should feel, which is a bit different for footballers since it needs to be game-specific," Gemili is uniquely positioned to help these players, having competed at a high level in two sports. "I can share my knowledge to give them the best chance to succeed. If you think someone is either quick or not, think again. Speed, power, and acceleration can be trained. The improvements I've seen in these players' numbers and force production are incredible." He adds, "I have data to back it up. We tested them a couple of months later, and the results were astonishing. The players who weren't initially quick saw even more significant improvements. With football becoming faster, speed is arguably more important now than ever. They might not aim to be Olympic-fast, but they want to be as quick as possible. They're open to learning, realizing that extra speed can give them an edge." In a world focused on marginal gains, speed seems like an obvious advantage. Gemili is helping both younger and senior players. Last summer, he ran a pre-season camp for a group of players, including Manchester City prospect Ryan McAidoo and 26-year-old Republic of Ireland international Aaron Connolly. "It's easy to help senior players if they're open to it. Speed is just one aspect; injuries can result from bad mechanics or recovery. In my opinion, nothing conditions like sprinting. Footballers know their careers are short, and they want to improve to get the most out of it." Gemili's elite athletic career may be over, but he's still young. "I'm ready for new challenges and adventures. I'm closing this chapter, and the next journey awaits. My goal with the 'speed academy' is to include football. Chelsea has one of the best academies, always innovating, and it's a privilege to help shape these players' futures. I hope to continue doing that." After achieving gold, Gemili is happiest when part of a team.