A young freelance sports journalist from Edinburgh is inspiring others to discover their passion for sport through Edinburgh Leisure’s new coaching campaign, Next Big Thing.

Lorna Husband, 25, has spent 2025 challenging herself to try a new sport every week, documenting her journey through a blog, website, and social media channels including Instagram and TikTok. Her mission? To show that sport is for everyone – and that trying something new could be life-changing.

As part of her adventure, Lorna has taken on everything from fly fishing and fencing to flamenco and velodrome cycling  – and was delighted to meet Sir Chris Hoy a few days later at an event in Dundee. Among her most daring experiences was diving at the Royal Commonwealth Pool, where she tackled heights from 1m to the formidable 10m platform, and climbing at EICA: Ratho, Europe’s largest indoor climbing arena, alongside her boyfriend who helps film her weekly challenges.

“As a water-baby, I thoroughly enjoyed my diving challenge,” said Lorna. “My coach Matthew was incredibly patient and encouraging. I hadn’t realised how much leg and core strength diving requires! While I didn’t reach Andrea Spendolini-Sirieix’s level in one lesson, I definitely gained a head for heights.

“Climbing at Europe’s largest indoor climbing arena at Ratho was another highlight – the sheer scale of the arena is breathtaking. It was both physically demanding and exhilarating, and having my boyfriend there to cheer me and compete against made it even more memorable.”

Lorna’s journey began as part of her post-graduate sports journalism course at Napier University, supported by her boyfriend who gifted her a GoPro and helps film her weekly adventures. She’s also launched a website – www.sport-port.co.uk – to help others find a sport they might enjoy or a club to join.

Now, she’s lending her voice to Edinburgh Leisure’s November campaign, Next Big Thing, which aims to encourage children and adults alike to explore new sports through coaching.

“Our campaign is all about sparking curiosity,” said Angela McCowan, Sports Development Manager at Edinburgh Leisure. “Sports coaching helps build confidence, communication skills, and keeps kids active. It’s about fun, skill-building, and learning vital life skills like swimming.”

With only 59% of school-aged children meeting recommended daily activity levels, Edinburgh Leisure is urging families to help their children find their next big passion through sport. Coaching options include swimming, gymnastics, climbing, and more – all delivered by expert instructors in a fun and friendly environment.

Why Join?

• Fun and friendly coaching for all abilities
• Expert instructors to guide every step
• A great way to stay active, make friends, and build confidence
• Flexible options across the city

Parents and guardians can explore available sessions and sign up at: www.edinburghleisure.co.uk/coaching-activities

Let this autumn be the start of something big – because diving, climbing, swimming or tennis could be your Next Big Thing.