Talented Athlete Scheme
Developed as part of the European City of Sport 2016, the Talented Athlete Support Programme (known as TAS) has been set up to enable talented athletes from the city to benefit from a grant which could enhance their ability, progress their performance and hopefully set them on the road to professional careers within sport.
Through a Talented Athlete Support Grant, they will have the opportunity to access financial support (up to £1,000) which could be used for travel, equipment, specialist coaching and support, along with professional training including access to Sports Science services through Staffordshire University.
Awards are handed out on a quarterly basis with nominations closing on 30 June then reopening for another 3 months. At the end of each quarter, a panel which includes representatives from Stoke on Trent City Council, Staffordshire University, The Sentinel and local athletes will deliberate.
Nominations are being accepted throughout the year with anyone who meets the criteria (available from the City of Sport website at www.stoke.gov.uk/CityOfSport16) urged to take the next step in their professional development by applying.
Coaches, teachers, parents and family members can also nominate people they feel could benefit from an award.
One of the main aims of the City of Sport programme is to recognise and develop a strong sporting culture within the city and to enable those up and coming athletes and stars to take advantage of the opportunities available to them. As a city full of sporting potential, it is vital that the sports stars of tomorrow are given the right support at an early stage in their career.
Councillor Terry Follows, cabinet member with responsibility for leisure, said: “This is all about helping our talented local athletes reach their full potential and excel in their chosen sport.
“As a city we have a rich sporting heritage and some very talented sportspeople which we’re very proud of, but we know there can be a lot of costs that come with a sports career such as travel expenses and competition entries. This funding should address some of those potential barriers and make a positive contribution to the development of our sportspeople.
“A key part of being a European City of Sport for 2016 is making sure the benefits go much further than just this year and I’m very proud we are giving people the support they need to pursue their sporting dreams.”
For further information, visit the website above or email Geoff.Beadle@stoke.gov.uk
Jo Haywood
Programme Delivery Assistant
T: 01782 233866
E: Joanne.haywood@stoke.gov.uk