A professional basketball player from Letchworth has returned to his old school to speak to the present crop of pupils.

The Comet: Professional basketball player and former Fearnhill pupil Zak Wells with head Liz Ellis. Picture: Fearnhill SchoolProfessional basketball player and former Fearnhill pupil Zak Wells with head Liz Ellis. Picture: Fearnhill School (Image: Archant)

London Lions player Zak Wells still lives in Letchworth, where he went to Fearnhill School – and the 7ft centre made a big impression on the students.

Many of the current staff remember the 24-year-old from his school days, and enjoyed catching up with him again.

Zak said: “I had a great time at Fearnhill. I left with good grades and I was set up for the future. I turned things around here and left a better person, so I wanted to give something back to the school.”

Zak – who has represented Great Britain – talked to students from Year 11 and 13 as part of their celebration of achievement ceremonies, describing his training experiences and the challenges he has dealt with to succeed as a professional sportsman.

Asked what advice he would offer young people, he said: “I have three key messages. Firstly, failure happens. It is part of life and dealing with it is the best way to grow as a person.

“Secondly, never forget how fortunate you are. Often people take for granted all that they have and need to remember that there are many people far worse off than you.

“Finally, whatever you do, give it your all. Be fully committed to your goals.”

Zak had spells playing top-level basketball in Spain and Slovenia before joining London Lions, and also played for Leeds.

School head Liz Ellis said: “It is really important for students to see how what they are doing now will influence their future, and to meet someone who has succeeded in achieving his ambition through hard work and determination.

“Zak is a great example of a Fearnhill student.”

To find out more about Zak follow him on Twitter using the handle @zakwells93.