Paralympian Holly Robinson shares how sport gave her confidence, connection and a sense of belonging.
Growing up in Hokitika on the rugged West Coast, Holly Robinson was always outdoors – riding motorbikes, fishing and playing every sport she could convince her parents to take her to.
From netball and basketball to badminton and cricket, Holly’s love for movement and challenge was clear from the start.
But her journey wasn’t always smooth. Born without a hand, Holly faced moments of exclusion and doubt. She recalls a PE teacher telling her to sit on the sidelines, assuming she couldn’t take part.
“That was heartbreaking,” she says. “I was already struggling with the world around me, and then someone told me I couldn’t be part of it.”
It was through athletics – and the support of her first coach, Danny Spark – that Holly found her place. “He believed in me,” she says. “I hadn’t heard that a lot in my life.”
With encouragement, Holly discovered a passion for field events like javelin and shot put and began to see what she was capable of.
Her grandmother played a huge role too, driving her to training and cheering her on from the sidelines. “It was their belief in me that really mattered,” Holly reflects.
Now a Paralympic medallist, Holly sees sport as much more than competition.
“It’s not always about crossing the line first. Sometimes just turning up is the biggest achievement.”
For Holly, sport has offered confidence, connection and a sense of belonging. She hopes her story helps other young people, especially those who feel different, see they have a place in sport. “Don’t let others decide your journey. Work hard at what you want to do and be headstrong in your goals.”
