Being awarded The Jaguar Academy of Sport bursary, has greatly helped William with the costs of fencing and competing internationally.

But the real value of being part of The Jaguar Academy of Sport is in attending the workshops, hearing other sportmen speak of their experiences, and being inspired by all the famous names William has met. These include:

  • Dame Kelly Holmes
  • Sir Ian Botham
  • Gareth Edwards CBE
  • Denise Lewis OBE
  • Sir Steve Redgrave
  • David Beckham OBE
  • Rio Ferdinand
  • Jamie Baulch
  • Sir Chris Hoy MBE
  • Dame Jessica Ennis-Hill
  • Colin Jackson CBE
  • Barry McGuigan MBE
  • Mark Cavendish

Each year The Jaguar Academy of Sport select 5 of their "Rising Stars" to receive a special recognition award. In December 2012, William attended The Savoy Hotel, and was presented with his award by David Walliams.

As part of this award William also received a years individual mentoring - William's mentor was Olympic cyclist Bryan Steel.