The next generation of high performance athletes in full-time education could receive access to a level of support previously unheard of on the Isle of Man, thanks to a new partnership with Sport England.
It comes after the arm’s-length body extended its highly successful Talented Athlete Scholarship Scheme (TASS) to the Isle of Man.
The move follows discussions, which started at the Birmingham Commonwealth Games in 2022, between Sport England, Isle of Man Sport and the Department of Education, Sport and Culture (DESC).
Young athletes
Secondary schools and University College Isle of Man (UCM) are already being supported to gain a TASS accreditation, which recognises flexibility and understanding should be shown to young athletes attempting to balance their hectic sporting schedule with studies.
Nikki is also overseeing a pilot Performance Development Programme, which currently helps 33 potential stars with mentoring and access to facilities, performance services and workshops that fit around their school day.
Potential stars
Rising mountain bike star, Issac Batty, is one of the first on the pilot scheme. The 17 year old, said:
“The programme has been great so far as it has given me the opportunity to get to know other people working towards similar goals. The strength and conditioning programming has been really enjoyable and is really helping my training.”
Paul Jones, Sports Performance Co-ordinator, commented: “This is such an exciting opportunity that could see unheard of levels of support for young people and their families, structured around their studies.
“Should all be successful, the Island would hold a unique status within the British Isles as the only jurisdiction to have its whole education system signed up.”
It is hoped all secondary schools and UCM will have gained the accreditation by September 2024.
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