This group of international representatives, Olympic medallists and world champions have vast first-hand experience to pass on to younger athletes. Tomorrow's champions benefit from advice on how to balance their athletic careers with academic and work loads, and how to get the best out of themselves through practice and goal-setting. As young people leave school their pathway for sport is through sports clubs. These clubs are the only environment available in which young school-leavers can stick with sport and reach their potential. A fortunate and dedicated few will also make the country proud of their achievements.
Young people represent the future health of the clubs - in the form of new members and volunteers.
Strategy The Community Sport Fund is a partnership between the Commission and local authorities, which distribute the Commission's investment. In many cases councils contribute additional funds to strengthen clubs in their area. Some rural councils receive a higher per capita grant so that sports clubs affected by special rural issues are not disadvantaged. To make the process as smooth as possible for clubs which apply to the fund, in 2000 we trained 376 Fund liaison staff from 70 councils. Young people with a disability can face preventable obstacles to enjoying everyday sporting opportunities.