News
2nd May - 2013 Gillette Great Start Campaign
Gillette has announced its 'Great Start' programme which celebrates the role of coaching and supports coaching excellence by offering coaching grants awarded through the scheme. The announcement marks the second year of Gillette's partnership with sports coach UK, re-affirming the brand's promise to help support coaching development and invest in sporting legacy beyond London 2012.
The grants are available to both aspiring and amateur coaches who wish to further their qualifications. Applications for grants open from the 9 May 2013 via the brand's Facebook page www.facebook.com/GilletteUK. Gillette is also continuing to supporting the UK Coaching Awards hosted by sports coach UK which celebrate the role of coaching in encouraging participation, performance and excellence. As part of the Great Start programme Gillette is offering people the chance to nominate a coach who deserves recognition for their work for the UK Community Coach of the Year Award.
England Rugby League Head Coach Steve McNamara said: "The brilliant thing about the 'Great Start' programme is that it recognises the importance of supporting coaching in the UK and the integral role it plays in nurturing the future sporting talent of Great Britain. Without great coaches there would be no great athletes and it is essential that we continue to invest in coaching to ensure our future champions get the right training and support."
Gillette brand manager, Jared Regan, commented: "Gillette has a rich heritage in sport and we appreciate the crucial role that both amateur and professional coaches play in the success of sport in the UK. Coaching is the sporting embodiment of a great start and we're absolutely delighted to be able to sponsor these grants for a second year and give more people the opportunity to feel at their best by giving back to their community through coaching."
sports coach UK CEO Dr Tony Byrne said: "Gillette understands that without the tireless efforts of volunteer coaches and educators, the next generation would not be inspired to pursue careers in sport and new talent would remain undiscovered. We also know that the cost of gaining a qualification is seen as a major barrier by many aspiring coaches, so we're delighted that Gillette's Great Start programme will enable more people to develop their skills".
10th April - Funding Boost for Legacy Programme that's Inspired 3,500 Young People in the Black Country to Play Sport
Thousands more young people in the Black Country are to benefit from the sporting legacy after Sport England announced an extra £24 million to expand and extend its successful Sportivate programme.
The National Lottery funding means Sportivate can continue helping 14- to 25-year-olds to get involved in sports from judo and tennis to wakeboarding and parkour until 2017.
The initiative is run in the Black Country by the Black Country BeActive Partnership. New figures shows that 3,500 teenagers and young adults in the county have already benefitted from free or discounted six-to-eight week sports coaching courses through Sportivate. Of these, 3,000 have successfully completed their course, missing no more than one session.
The announcement was made by Sport England's Chief Executive, as it celebrated the success of the first two years of the programme. She said: "Sportivate's success is built on listening to what young people want from sport and then giving them great opportunities to get involved. With dozens of traditional and non-traditional sports on offer, lots of young people are getting active and discovering a sport they really enjoy and want to keep playing."
110 successful projects were run during year two of the programme delivering a range of sports including angling, horse riding, cardio tennis, wheelchair basketball, climbing, football, cycling, softball, netball, judo and aikido.
The Ren Shin Khan Aikido club developed a successful women's self-defence class to introduce young women to the sport of aikido with one participant saying "Sometimes it's hard to try something different that you've not done before. I'm glad that I did as it's given me the confidence to take up the sport of Aikido. The instructors are really supportive and friendly and I would recommend it to anyone".
Shire Oak Academy and Gartmore Riding School worked together to develop several projects that introduced students to horse riding, providing six weeks of riding lessons and subsidised sessions for those that wanted to continue riding. One participant said:
"Sportivate has provided us with the chance to try horse riding and there is nothing else similar to it because it's with an animal. You get a bond with the horse and you enjoy the sport more than just kicking a ball around because of that. I have really enjoyed it and wish I had started it earlier".
Alex Martin, Cardio Tennis Coach said: "Getting people into sport is really important, giving them something totally different to do can motivate them, whether it be looking for a job, staying in or going back to education or just trying to get a bit fitter, programmes like Sportivate are perfect to help us do this."
The announcement was welcomed by Olympic Gold-medal winning cyclist Joanna Rowsell, and the Rt Hon Maria Miller, Secretary of State for Culture, Media & Sport.
Joanna Rowsell said: "It's fantastic that Sportivate is helping so many young people to discover a new sport. I only started cycling when I was 15 and it changed my life. Sport can be amazing if you find the one that's right for you. Whether you want to get serious about it or concentrate on the fun of taking part, Sportivate can help you to get involved."
Sportivate aims to give young people who currently aren't playing sport in their own time the chance to find a sport they like. The young people are then helped to find a club or venue where they can keep taking part. Research shows that most of the young people are sticking with sport three months after they've completed the Sportivate course.
Maria Miller said: "The number of people playing sport is on the rise, which is really good news. We are determined to leave a lasting legacy from London's Games, and Sportivate is playing a key part in that. It's really important we keep the momentum going and help even more young people develop a sporting habit for life."
Sportivate is being delivered by the network of 49 county sports partnerships, working with local clubs and providers.
4th April - British Weightlifting Talent Assessment Days
British Weight Lifting are hoping to unearth the next generation of Olympic weightlifting talent at a new series of talent assessment days. Young people aged from 13-23-years-old are invited to take part in one of a series of events being staged during May and June, which could be the first step on the road to competing in major championships such as the Commonwealth Games or Olympics.
BWL teamed up with UK Sport to run a similar scheme last year (UK Sport Power2Podium), and that led to six athletes being selected as part of the BWL Talent Programme which gives them elite coaching and support at regular training camps alongside the GB squad. UK Sport and Sport England have given BWL more money for talent development, paving the way for British Weight Lifting to establish a clear talent pathway from grassroots through to the Great Britain performance level.
BWL Talent Pathway Manager Dan Wagner said: "having seen the fantastic results of the last talent scheme, I'm really excited to see what results we can get from this latest initiative'
You can register for a BWL talent assessment day by clicking in the link below
BWL Talent Assessment Day - Sign Up
Assessment days will be held at the following venues;
Leeds Met University - 18th May
Oldbury Academy - 19th May
Edinburgh University - 1st June
Crystal Palace NSC - 8th June
Oaklands College (St Albans, Hertfordshire) - 9th June
Applicants attending the Phase One Talent Assessment Day will be tested on their physical abilities and will be presented with the programme going forward.
Those who show good potential will then be invited to a Phase Two Assessment Day where they will be tested on their physical, technical and psychological attributes and be tested more specifically on their ability and skill acquisition in Olympic weightlifting.
If you are selected onto the BWL talent confirmation or England talent pathway, you will receive talent development support which incorporates training camps at the BWL High Performance Centre in Leeds, an elite athlete education programme, strength and conditioning training, expert technical coaching and the opportunity to train with the BWL performance programme athletes.
Applications will close on the 2nd May.
For any further enquiries please contact BWL Talent Pathway Manager, Dan Wagner: dan.wagner@britishweightlifting.org
27th March - Healthier Future for the Black Country as £0.5m Invested to Get Inactive People into Sport
1 year on from the London 2012 Olympic and Paralympic Games, thousands of people in the Black Country are to benefit from Sport England funding. The Black Country Consortium Ltd, on behalf of the Black Country BeActive Partnership has been awarded £485,000 from Sport England, through their 'Get Healthy, Get into Sport' fund to deliver the "Black Country in Motion" project, targeting 8 Health Sport Hubs within the Black Country.
Sport England's Get Healthy Get into Sport fund will enable inactive people to benefit from £5.8 million of funding nationwide. The announcement comes as new figures published by Sport England reveal that the cost of inactivity to the NHS in the West Midlands is £106 million.
One of only 14 successful applications across England, the investment announced today will enable the Partnership to deliver a research and sports project that will train local people to develop a wide range of opportunities to support inactive people to get involved in sport close to where they live, in eight health sport hubs across Dudley, Sandwell, Walsall and Wolverhampton.
Welcoming the news, Simon Hall, Director of the Black Country BeActive Partnership said, "This is great news for the people of the Black Country. We will gain so much from this programme by having the opportunity to develop the skills of local people to put on sport for their communities, targeting those areas with the lowest levels of participation and highest health inequalities, the facts gained from research into what works best and also to be able to show what sport can do to improve people's lives. The bonus of this funding award is that it also shows what can be done by getting the main agencies together to deliver a single approach to getting those inactive doing more sport".
The delivery of the project will take place between April 2013 and March 2016, and as well as local sports provision, the University of Wolverhampton will be undertaking a PhD research project on the programme, looking at comparisons between community led, targeted approaches to sports activity and that of universal leisure provision.
The programme is aligned to both national, Black Country and Local Strategic priorities and has the potential to inform local planning and delivery of sport and physical activity over the next 4 years.
Sport England's Chief Executive, Jennie Price, said: "We are paying a heavy price for inactivity both in terms of people's health and the burden on the NHS. These lottery-funded projects will help tens of thousands of people to get healthier and demonstrate the value of investing in sport and physical activity."
Cllr Linda Horton, from Sandwell MBC (one of the projects partners) commented, "I am absolutely delighted that the Get Healthy Get into Sport funding bid to Sport England has been successful. I am particularly pleased that Sandwell MBC and Primary Care Trust staff have worked with colleagues from the other Black Country Authorities and the Black Country Consortium to produce such a strong bid and develop such a worthwhile project. With Council budgets being stretched to the limits, it's more important than ever to maximise income from external sources such as Sport England and I congratulate everyone involved"
20th March - Have Your Say on the Barriers, Challenges & Aspirations of Black Country Sports Clubs
The Black Country BeActive Partnership recognises that sports clubs are fundamental to increasing and sustaining participation in sport as well as supporting talent development.
The Partnership has contracted Sport Structures to carry out an in depth research project into the range, nature and needs of Sports Clubs in the Black Country.
The research will involve affiliated sports clubs as well as engaging with informal sports clubs and community groups which use sport to stimulate their group activities; this is in addition to consultation with national governing bodies, local authorities and voluntary service councils. The research team will use a range of methods to gain an insight into the barriers, challenges and aspirations of sports clubs. This includes an online survey, hard copy surveys, telephone interviews and focus groups of clubs and community based groups.
The study will take up to 3 months to complete, and will be guided by a steering group comprising the Black Country BeActive Partnership, local authorities, governing bodies and representatives from the voluntary sector. The study will give the Partnership an up to date database and typology of clubs, an insight into the support that clubs need and would like, and a set of clear recommendations for the Black Country BeActive Partnership Board to allocate resources and services over the next 4 years.
Simon Hall, Director of the Black Country BeActive Partnership said, "We know that our sports clubs and organisations play a massive contribution to Black Country life, providing opportunities for people and communities to get together, learn new skills and play sport to the best of their ability. Clubs are served by amazing people putting in lots of their own time to help others. Understanding club's ambitions and issues are key to ensuring those working in sport are able to respond to their needs. This is why we want to hear from clubs, and with over £1bn Sport England funding available ensure those who really need funding can get it. So it's about clubs getting involved to really help themselves"
The survey is available in two forms PDF download and also an online survey. If you complete the survey your club will be entered into a prize draw for one of five £100 worth of sports equipment vouchers, and the first 50 responses will get access to a free Child Protection course. Click the link below to enter the survey, or click here to download a pdf version:
To complete the survey online follow this link: SURVEY
We would be grateful if you could complete the questionnaire by 19 April 2013.
If you have any questions or need further clarity please contact: Jobeth Bastable 07917 388 166 or email Jobeth.bastable@sportstructures.com. Or to speak to someone from the Black Country BeActive Partnership please contact Simon Fisher on 01384 47 11 38 or email simon_fisher@blackcountryconsortium.co.uk
If you want help, have your say!
18th March - Primary School Sport Announcement
The County Sports Partnership Network have today welcomed the Government announcement that additional investment will be made into primary school sport.
The County Sports Partnership Network, comprising of 49 local delivery teams across the country, who are responsible for supporting local partners to effectively engage local communities to lead healthier and active lives said that the announcement would provide much needed resource and gives a clear signal to schools, communities and local agencies that PE, sport and physical activity for children and young people is a top priority
Richard Saunders, Chair of the County Sports Partnership Network said;
"it is widely recognised that a fresh injection of support was needed, particularly to help primary schools who lack specialist teachers, to ensure the best possible start towards an active lifestyle for all children and young people. We are delighted to hear the announcement confirming the investment into sport in primary schools and we look forward to continuing to help schools alongside national and local partners"
Mr Saunders continued:
"We are pleased to see cross departmental support for the announcement and that the key Government departments and national agencies are behind the plans, which will help ensure a joint strategy where young people are put at the heart of the plans, schools are at the heart of their local community, with clear links between school and community sport, helping to create clear pathways for young people, making the best use of our collective resources.
We are pleased that the role of CSPs has been recognised in the announcements and we accept the challenge and responsibility contained in the announcements to help schools connect with NGBs, community coaches and clubs."
County Sports Partnership have a track record in working with schools and in 2012 they played a key role in the delivery of the School Games and new satellite clubs.
It is hoped by many across the network that with the resource going directly to schools, it provides an opportunity to really embed the importance and ownership of PE, sport and physical activity within schools themselves with buy in around the programmes they develop and deliver.
Simon Hall, Black Country BeActive Partnership Director said "We are delighted that the Government is committed to investing even more in school sport and the Black Country School Games Festival shows the impact that investment can make. We look forward to receiving more details including the Black Country BeActive Partnership's future role"
School head teachers are being encouraged to contact their local CSP as a starting point who will be able to help them to understand their local context and the local support available.
28th February - Funding Boost for Sainsbury's School Games in the West Midlands
Sport in the West Midlands is set for a boost after Sport England announced additional National Lottery funding for Sainsbury's School Games Festivals.
The Sainsbury's School Games, which is delivered by the Youth Sport Trust, is fully inclusive and is increasing competitive sport in schools and offering young people more opportunities to take part. School pupils compete in a range of sports competitions from class versus class to local school versus school across the year which culminates in county festivals involving thousands of young people, which this funding will support. The local organising committees for these festivals in the West Midlands, which includes Birmingham, the Black Country, Coventry, Solihull, Warwickshire, Shropshire, Telford and Wrekin, Staffordshire, Stoke on Trent, Herefordshire and Worcestershire, are each to receive at least £45,000 of lottery funding from Sport England which will help make their events a real celebration of sport.
In 2012, 9,926 young people took part in Sainsbury's School Games festivals across the West Midlands, inspired by the incredible year of sport that the country witnessed. The events in the West Midlands were made possible by the hard work schools and 1,392 volunteers, most of whom were young people themselves.
Sport England's Director of Community Sport, Mike Diaper, said: "Young people can look forward to an inspirational sporting experience at their local Sainsbury's School Games Festival, thanks to this lottery funding. Last year's events were a huge success - something everyone involved should feel proud of and they're set to be even better in 2013."
John Steele, Chief Executive Officer at the Youth Sport Trust, said: "The Sainsbury's School Games Festivals offer young people a fantastic opportunity to take part and compete across a range of sports against their peers. The funding for these festivals will help make the events an exciting and inspiring occasion for those taking part."
The Sainsbury's 2013 School Games is supported by a range of partners including the Department for Culture, Media and Sport, Sport England, Youth Sport Trust, Department of Health and Paralympics GB. For further information about how schools can become involved in the School Games go to www.yourschoolgames.com
18th February - Sandwell Leisure Trust - Board Recruitment
Do you want to make a contribution to the future of health and fitness in Sandwell?
Sandwell Leisure Trust is looking to add to the considerable expertise of its current board members. In particular, they wish to hear from people with experience in Health, Education, Finance and Construction sectors. For more information please click here
5th February - Mencap Open National Athletics Championships 2013
The Open National Athletics Championship is Mencap Sport's competition for athletes with a learning disability. It will take place on 29th June 2013 at the Woodside Athletics Stadium in Watford. To find out more about this event and to apply please click here
29th January - The Countdown Begins to the 2013 Black Country School Games
Now that we are into 2013 we begin to countdown to the 2013 Black Country Sainsbury's School Games. The first 2 events kicking off the calendar will be Futsal on Tuesday 29th January and Table Tennis on Thursday 31st January.
- The Futsal Event
Futsal will be taking place at the Futsal Arena near to Walsall, where we will see U18 boys and U16 boys from Dudley, Sandwell, Walsall and Wolverhampton battle it out to be the first winners of 2013. Both age group competitions are made up of 8 teams, with 2 teams from each local authority taking each other on to be crowned the U18 and U16 Level 3 Futsal Champions for 2013.
"We are delighted to be kicking off the Black Country School Games Level 3 programme for 2013. Not only are we looking forward to a high quality Futsal competition, but we intend to offer a whole range of opportunities for young leaders, mathematicians, musicians and artists. See you all at the International Futsal Arena Birmingham on the 29th January!" Adam Hughes Director of Specialism, Assistant Headteacher, The Streetly Academy.
Paul Wicker, Event Manager for the Black Country School Games said "I am particularly excited to be organising the first Sport Specific Finals Day of the 2013 Black Country School Games Programme with Streetly School. Having worked with them over the past 2 years on the main festival, their enthusiasm and vision of how they sport can be used across the curriculum is fantastic, and is shown through their recent outstanding Ofsted rating".
Additional exciting activity will also be taking place. The Streetly Samba band will create a mash up with a freestyle footballer in the opening ceremony. Their Sports Leaders will also support the delivery of the competition, media leaders will capture and edit coverage of the competition, and it's also linked to curriculum challenges such as art and maths which will run alongside the competition, as well as a visual creative art programme on the day.
- The Table Tennis Event
This year's Black Country School Games Level 3 Table Tennis competition will be taking place at Wood Green Academy in Sandwell on Thursday 31st January.
2012 UK School Games Competitor and Gold Medal winner Archie Taylor will be taking part in the proceedings and Event Manager, Gemma Parker has said everyone is looking forward to the event -"Table Tennis is an important sport and Wood Green Academy value its importance. We are really looking forward to welcoming the Black Country's finest young competitors to Wood Green for what should be a really high standard once again".
Wood Green is considered to be one of the best venues for Table Tennis in the Black Country and is also an ETTA national centre, with national competitions being hosted. The School Games flag arrives on 31st January along with the most talented competitors, who haven't had an easy route to the Level 3 competition.
The School Games incorporates a number of different qualification levels. Starting at Level 1, participants compete within their schools. The most talented players then progress to Level 2 whereby they compete against other schools in their local area before finally progressing to Level 3 the pinnacle of local competition where they will compete to be the best in the Black Country.
Table Tennis is proud to be a part of the third year of the Black Country School Games with thousands of young people having previously taken part.
So Good Luck to all competitors let the competition begin!
For further detail on the Black Country School Games, visit www.the-blackcountry.com/beactive and follow the links to the School Games.
For up to date announcements and results follow us on Twitter @BCSchoolGames.
24th January - Hundreds of Grassroots Sports Clubs Share in £16.6 million Olympic Legacy Boost
Sport England's Inspired Facilities Olympic and Paralympic legacy fund supports 1,000th local facility 12 months ahead of schedule. Latest investments see £16.6 million National Lottery funding going to 310 sports groups across England.
The gymnastics club of Olympic medallist, Louis Smith, is among hundreds of sports groups celebrating legacy investments from Sport England to improve local sports facilities.
£16.6 million of National Lottery funding has today been awarded to 310 projects, taking the number of local communities supported by Inspired Facilities to more than 1,000 one year ahead of schedule. The investments will bring big improvements to local facilities from new playing surfaces to floodlights and better changing rooms and at least £20 million more will be offered through two further funding rounds.
The fund is part of Sport England's Places People Play Olympic and Paralympic legacy programme and all improved facilities carry the London 2012 Inspire mark celebrating the link to the Games.
Minister for Sport and Tourism, Hugh Robertson, today joined Sport England and members of the medal winning Team GB Hockey Team at a sports club in London that is among the latest to secure funding from Inspired Facilities. £50,000 will pay for a multi-use games area that can be used for hockey and netball. Currently hockey players from Barnes Sports Club have to travel four miles to train.
Sport England's Chief Executive, Jennie Price, said: "We have had such a fantastic response from sports clubs to Inspired Facilities that we've reached our target of making 1,000 grants a year early. Demand remains strong so will offer a further £20 million of funding over the next 15 months."
Hugh Robertson, the Minister for Sport and Tourism, said: "Six months on from the start of the London 2012 Games, we have extremely strong foundations in place for the sports legacy. The Places People Play programme goes from strength to strength and this £16.6 million investment will improve facilities at local sports club across the country, encouraging participation and giving people more opportunities to get involved in sport."
Olympic bronze medallist, Helen Richardson, said: "Good local facilities are really important for grassroots sport so these lottery investments will have a big impact. It's fantastic to see that lots of hockey clubs are benefitting too."
Michael Harriman from Barnes Sports Club said: "The help from Sport England is greater than just the financial assistance offered. The Inspired Facilities programme provides clubs with guidance on planning permission, contractors, materials and construction. This knowledge, which is shared with clubs throughout the country, is an invaluable aid to the volunteers who run grassroots sport."
Six months on from the start of the Olympics, today's milestone is further evidence of the steps being taken to build on the momentum of 2012:
Last week Sport England launched a new £40 million fund to help local sports projects
Last month £493 million was committed to 46 sports over the next four years
15.5 million people are now playing sport every week, more than ever before.
The 310 projects awarded Lottery funding from Inspired Facilities today include £49,150 to improve the facilities at Huntingdon Gymnastics Club in Cambridgeshire.
Olympic bronze medallist Louis Smith said: "I owe so much of my success to this club so I'm thrilled to hear they're receiving lottery funding. These improvements will help the club do even more for local gymnasts and I know they have big plans for the future."
Other awards include:
£41,025 to improve a BMX race track in Nottingham and build a new pump track
£50,000 to build a new sports pavilion for indoor sports and to support Seaview Football Club on the Isle of Wight
£50,000 to modernise Stamford Community Swimming Pool in East Yorkshire.
Seven of the projects that are benefiting disadvantaged young people have been awarded a total of £95,571 in additional funding from the Thomas Cook's Children's Charity, Sport England's partner for Inspired Facilities.
Maxine Harper from the charity said: "We are really pleased to be able to award £95,571 to seven projects to help improve their facilities as they continue encouraging more children to get involved in sport, who might otherwise not be able to. We've been overwhelmed with the number of applications for our grants and the fund, which highlights the amazing work being done by volunteers in sports clubs up and down the country."
11th January - New Year, New You, Be Active
Does London 2012 feel like a distant memory? Have the inspiring achievements of your favourite athletes failed to motivate you to Be Active? Are your best intentions to follow a healthier lifestyle a little waylaid by the Festive Season? If you have answered yes to any of these questions then now is the time to draw on those thoughts and make use of the New Year to "Be Active in Sandwell in 2013!"
Starting in January, a new community sports programme is being launched across the Borough by Sandwell Leisure Trust's Sports Development team to offer the local community a variety of ways in which to take up more sports.
Working with local clubs and leisure centres, programmes are being offered in 18 different Olympic sports encouraging people to get out and give them a go! The programmes on offer cover many of the sports featured over the last summer including football, boxing, judo, tennis, badminton, weightlifting, handball, basketball, cycling, hockey, swimming, trampolining, water polo, taekwondo, jogging & table tennis. Golf is also included as preparation for its inclusion at the next Olympic Games in Rio 2016. With all of these sports, costs have been kept to a minimum to encourage wider uptake and high level coaching is on offer too. Many links to local clubs have been established to allow for a sustainable route into long-term involvement as well.
There are programmes on offer for adults and children alike so whether you're intrigued to know what it's like to play waterpolo, are looking for a place for your child to do trampolining, have been wanting to improve your golf game for a while or have always wanted to learn to swim, now is the time to join in and get active in Sandwell in 2013!
For more details on the full programme timetable, you can download here, go to www.slt-leisure.co.uk or call the Sport & Physical Activity Team on 0121-506-4980
17th December - Sport England Funding Information
Sport England today announced almost £0.5bn funding into grassroots sport. Click here to read the full press release
4th December - Get Qualified at George Salter
A Level 2 Leadership through Football course will soon be running at George Salter. For full details please see the attatched flyer
27th November - Dudley Sailing Couple Honoured by HRH The Princess Royal
The husband and wife founding members of a Black Country sailing club were presented with one of the Royal Yachting Association's most prestigious awards by HRH the Princess Royal, President of the RYA, at the organisation's annual awards ceremony at London's One Great George Street on Friday (23rd November).
Himley Hall Sailing Club's Michael and Dorothea Willetts were awarded with a Lifetime Commitment award, in recognition of their voluntary work and commitment to sailing for over 42 years. The couple were nominated by their sailing club and selected as winners by the Awards panel. A total of 56 voluntary awards were presented to winners hailing from across the UK from as far afield as Cornwall to Argyll.
Michael and Dorothea were founder members of Himley Hall SC in 1970 and continue to work tirelessly to create, grow and support the club. Mike serves on the committee and continues winning sailing races. Over 40 years he has served the needs of the club in various committee roles including Commodore, Rear Commodore/Sailing Secretary and Honorary Treasurer. Mike has also been race organiser for the Sponsored 24 hour Race for RNLI and been involved in the Black Country Olympics.
Dorothea, who does not actually sail herself but wanted to support her husband and daughters' passion for the sport, has been the club's Honorary Secretary for 25 years and serves on the Ladies' Committee. As well as Himley Hall SC she has been Secretary on Dudley Sports Council and a member of South Staffs Sports Council. She has also been involved in the Black Country Olympics between the four boroughs.
The couple have always freely and generously given their time and energy to help the sailing club at every opportunity, with their family legacy at the club secured for many years through the involvement of their daughters and grandchildren.
Michael, who learned to sail on a course at Ounsdale School, Wombourne in 1969, said: "I get a great deal of pleasure in being on the water in the fresh air, away from the hustle and bustle of business life; pitting your wits against the elements and other sailors whilst racing. I love being involved in sailing so much I've always joined the local sailing club when we were on holiday and I'm presently a member of two clubs in Devon. I was surprised at being nominated for this award, but very proud. It gave us both a shock but it is a great honour."
Dorothea said: "I'm usually found in the galley providing meals and making hundreds of cups of tea and coffee. Seeing my husband and daughters enjoying themselves and serving the club in various ways gives me great pleasure. I began the Junior sailing sessions on Friday evenings at Himley Hall during the summer months and had the great honour of launching an Atlantic 21 Lifeboat at West Mersea and naming the boat 'Himley Hall' in recognition of our club's contributions to the RNLI. At present the amount raised is over £94,000. To win this award was a huge surprise and compliment for doing what I have enjoyed."
Michael and Dorothea, along with the other RYA Award winners, enjoyed a celebratory lunch in the presence of HRH the Princess Royal and were presented with a commemorative medallion and certificate.
Sarah Treseder, RYA Chief Executive said "The RYA is delighted to make this award in recognition of Michael and Dorothea's enthusiasm, promotion of our sport and many years' contribution to the West Midlands' boating scene. The 56 RYA winners are an inspiration to us all and it is my pleasure to recognise and celebrate their hard work and dedication."
For more information about sailing in the West Midlands visit www.rya.org.uk/regions/westmidlands
26th November - Inspirational Mya named RYA West Midlands Young Sailor of the Year 2012
A volunteer sailor from Wombourne will pick up one of youth sailing's most prestigious awards in the New Year - the RYA West Midlands Young Sailor of the Year Award 2012 - in recognition of her achievements over the past 12 months.
Himley Hall SC's Mya Kilpatrick-Wood, 16, will join 12 other RYA regional award winners from across Britain for a VIP day out at the Tullett Prebon London International Boat Show in January, where the inspirational youngsters will receive their trophies.
The RYA Regional Young Sailor of the Year awards recognise the outstanding impact young people make to British sailing, whether on the race course, showing real dedication to their clubs, overcoming adversity or through an exceptional achievement. The youngsters were nominated by sailing clubs and selected as winners by the regions' RYA committees.
Ounsdale High School student, Mya, has been recognised for her tireless dedication to establishing a junior section at Himley Hall SC this year. She raised funds for the junior section and, despite her youth, has been its representative on the club's committee. She attends internal and external meetings and workshops and can identify both potential enhancements and shortfalls in proposed plans, ably making a clear case for her ideas.
Mya has also organised and run several junior fun days and has been running the club's popular junior sailing sessions every Thursday evening since July. She is a key member of the club's training team and has attended every session she has been available for as an Assistant Instructor. She has recently become a full RYA-recognised Dinghy Instructor.
Mya started sailing aged 12 on the waters at Himley and quickly developed a taste for the sport. She admits she had to pinch herself when she found out she was now the RYA West Midlands Young Sailor of the Year.
Mya said: "Wow! I didn't really know what this award meant before I read stories about the other winners. I realised it was a huge honour and privilege to win it. In the past year I have felt super proud of everything the club has achieved, but more importantly the amount of juniors we have introduced to sailing and the progress they have made, either on the fun days or Thursday nights. I owe a big thank you to everyone at my club who has supported me and mentored me through the last season and can't wait to start the new one."
RYA Chief Executive Sarah Treseder said: "Winning an RYA Regional Young Sailor of the Year Award is a huge achievement and this year we are delighted to see such a broad selection of winners. All regional winners are a fantastic representation of youth in our sport."
For more information about sailing in the West Midlands visit www.rya.org.uk/regions/westmidlands
19th November - England Netball initiative wins Sports category at National Lottery Awards 2012
The National Lottery and the BBC have announced that England Netball's Active Women Back to Netball campaign has won the National Lottery Sports Project of the Year 2012. A group of Back to Netballers had a surprise visitor during training yesterday as multiple Olympic gold medallist, Sir Chris Hoy dropped in to announce the incredible news.
Over 9,000 women living in deprived areas and/or caring for U16s have taken up the sport thanks to the Back to Netball initiative and it has helped to change lives across the country. England Netball is proud to have spearheaded an initiative that has had such a positive impact on thousands of women across the country.
Katy Ritchie, National Development Manager who leads the scheme, said 'Winning National Lottery Sports Project of the Year 2012 is a dream come true. So many people have been involved in the success of Back to Netball and the award represents four years of hard work. Back to Netball coaches have inspired women across the country to return to the sport and it proves that there is a real thirst for traditional female sport out there.'
The England Netball press release states: "With the spotlight firmly focusing on a lasting legacy for sport after the London Olympics, there has been particular attention paid to women's sport and the need for increased coverage and media space. Netball has once again been leading the way; appearing on BBC News, Sky Sports News, BBC Radio 4, BBC Radio 5 and a well-received presence on ITV2's The Only Way is Essex. By remaining a frequent focus in the public eye and by targeting otherwise untapped markets, the sport is opening itself up to a larger proportion of potential participants than ever before and as the success continues on and off the court for England, the future looks bright for the sport in our country.
The achievements and progression made over the past year owe a lot to the fabulous work and support provided by the many sponsors, partners and friends that England Netball relies on. We would like to take this opportunity to publicly thank some of the key supporters of the Back to Netball programme.
We would like to firstly acknowledge the workforce who delivers sessions every week, without our incredible team of supportive and approachable coaches, this achievement would not have been possible. We have also received remarkable support from local authorities, facilities, County Sports Partnership's and the Women's Sports & Fitness Foundation with their invaluable customer insight.
An award such as this is not only won by the organisation, but by those that made it possible and we look forward to cementing these relationships over the coming twelve months.
We would also like to thank each and every member of the public who took the time to vote for Back to Netball to win this accolade. The response and reception received has been immense and it truly validates the tremendous effort put in by all involved to make this fantastic campaign such a success."
If you're interested in playing Netball, please contact Zoe Wanklin, the Black Country Netball Development Community Coach.
5th November - The Heroes of our Summer will be Turning out for the Black Country Sport & Physical Activity Awards
Black Country Olympians and Paralympians will be gracing the red carpet on the evening of Friday 9th November as the Copthorne Hotel in Dudley plays host to the 2012 Black Country Sport & Physical Activity Awards.
With over 200 special guests, local sports clubs, coaches and volunteers in attendance, the night promises to be a great celebration of the past 12 months of sport in the Black Country as well as recognising fantastic achievements at London 2012.
The awards, now in their 4th year, are being hosted by BBC WM Breakfast Show presenter Pete Morgan. On hosting the awards, Pete said "I am really excited to be involved in this year's Black Country Sport & Physical Activity Awards and, after a great summer of global sport, it's good to recognise those at a more local level, including those nominated for the BBC WM Newcomer Award".
Sponsored by Coaching with Balls, the awards ceremony will include a celebration of London 2012 achievements and includes presentations to Olympians, Paralympians, Event Officials and Torchbearers with mementos of their time in London and around the UK during this recent summer.
18 awards are up for grabs, and with over 130 nominations received, the shortlisted finalists up for an award are:
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Business Contribution to Sport |
Chair's Recognition Award
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Coach of the Year (sponsored by Sport Structures) |
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Community Club of the Year |
Community Games Event of the Year |
Disabled Sportsperson of the Year |
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Elvis Gordon Sports Personality of the Year |
Newcomer of the Year (supported by BBC WM) |
Physical Activity Initiative of the Year |
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Sport Maker of the Year
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Sportivate Project of the Year
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Sport Programme of the Year in an Educational Setting |
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Sportsperson of the Year
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Team of the Year (sponsored by Coaching with Balls) |
Unsung Hero
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Volunteer of the Year
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Young Sportsperson of the Year |
Young Volunteer of the Year
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23rd October - Black Country Courses
Sport Structures are currently booking places for the following courses
Course: Level 1 Volleyball
Venue: Birmingham
Dates: TBC
Times: 9-5
Cost: £190
Contact: becky.mcgrath@sportstructures.com
Website Link
Course: Level 2 Multi Skills
Venue: Wolverhampton
Dates: 1,2,9/12/12
Times: 9-5
Cost: £170
Contact: becky.mcgrath@sportstructures.com
Website Link
Course: Level 2 Basketball
Venue: West Brom
Dates: TBC
Times: 9-5
Cost: £250
Contact: becky.mcgrath@sportstructures.com
Website Link
Course: Level 2 Handball
Venue: Birmingham
Dates: 10,11,15/12/12
Times: 9-5
Cost: £335
Contact: becky.mcgrath@sportstructures.com
Website Link
Course: ABAE Boxing
Venue: Wolverhampton
Dates: TBC
Times: 9-4
Cost: £90
Contact: becky.mcgrath@sportstructures.com
Website Link
Course: Level 1 Handball
Venue: Coventry
Dates: 11/12/12
Times: 10-4
Cost: £50
Contact: becky.mcgrath@sportstructures.com
Website Link
Course: Level 1 Handball
Venue: Wolverhampton
Dates: 27/10/12
Times: 10-4
Cost: £65
Contact: becky.mcgrath@sportstructures.com
Website Link
8th October: Vote for Back to Netball to win a National Lottery Award
13th September: The Black Country Jumps on Board to Create a Lasting Legacy from the Digital Games
The Paralympics Closing Ceremony sees the end of the 'Games for a Digital Age. Technology and communication have been key to the delivery of the London 2012 Games and are an important feature of the legacy from this once in a lifetime event. To support this, the Black Country BeActive Partnership has launched its Facebook page, ensuring that Black Country residents can easily keep up to date with sporting opportunities and 2012 legacy programmes.
Aimed at residents of the Black Country, including sports participants, coaches, officials and volunteers as well as local partners, National Governing Bodies and Sporting Organisations, the new Facebook page provides a wealth of information on activities, courses, events and job opportunities.
The fantastic achievements of our Black Country athletes at both the Olympics and Paralympics has seen social media used like never before, seeing athletes tweet about their performances and supporters sending good luck messages to an otherwise unreachable hero. Social media is a key mechanism to helping us ensure a lasting legacy of London 2012 in the Black Country.
In the wake of the success of our athletes at the Paralympic Games, one of the first programmes to be announced by us on the Facebook page is the Sportivate Wheelchair Basketball sessions organised by Wolverhampton Rhinos. They will be taking place at various locations throughout Wolverhampton during the Autumn time, and include Our Lady and St Chads, New Academy and Moreton School.
Alan Caron, the organiser of the sessions for Wolverhampton Rhinos said "we have deliberately coincided the start of these sessions with the end of the Paralympic Games to support the delivery of a sporting legacy for young people with disabilities in the Black Country. We are really excited to give people the opportunity to get involved in this exhilarating and fun sport and hope that all the 14 25 year olds out there who watched Wheelchair Basketball on the TV will be inspired to come and give it a go"
If you have been inspired by the achievements of our Olympians and Paralympians and want to be kept up to date on what is happening in sport across the Black Country please visit our Facebook page and hit the "like" button to receive regular updates from our news feed.
The Black Country BeActive Partnership is committed to providing relevant information on disability sport, and further information can be found on our website www.the-blackcountry.com/beactive
6th September: Newcomer of the Year Award
The Newcomer of the Year Award was recently launched on BBC Midlands Today. Click below to view the footage
http://www.facebook.com/BlackCountryBeActivePartnership
For further information on the awards in the Black Country click here 23rd August: Sporting Heroes Support London 2012 Legacy Programmes in the Black Country
Team GB's Kristian Thomas has joined Dominique Allen in the growing number of Sporting Heroes supporting the Black Country in it's aim to create a lasting legacy from the London 2012 Olympic and Paralympic Games.
The Sporting Champions programme harnesses the inspiration that our world-class athletes can provide to young people to encourage, motivate and support them to develop a sporting habit for life. Young people in the Black Country are reaping the benefits of these exceptional athlete experiences with a number of visits to Sportivate sessions throughout 2012.
Sportivate has seen more than 2,200 young People in the Black Country be inspired to take up sport over the last 18 months with the help of the Black Country BeActive Partnership, which is managing the National Lottery funded programme in the Black Country.
Kristian Thomas, part of the historic Team GB Olympic Bronze Medal winning Men's Gymnastics Team said, " Being involved in gymnastics has given me so many amazing opportunities, including the fantastic buzz of being part of Team GB at London 2012 and winning an Olympic bronze medal. The Olympics has raised the profile of sport across the Black Country and I hope that more young people will be inspired to take up sports, including gymnastics, through programmes like Sportivate that are creating a lasting legacy from the Games"
Sportivate is giving teenagers and young adults - who currently aren't playing sport in their own time - the chance to receive six to eight weeks of coaching in a sport of their choice. The young people are then helped to find a club or venue where they can continue taking part.
Tom Reed, British Judo Champion, recently visited George Salter School's Sportivate Judo programme, where the sessions have been an excellent way to engage semi sporty young people in West Bromwich with Olympic ideals and guide them into sport for life.
Karanveer Shergill and Steven Bhatti, aged 15, attended the sessions with Judo coach Wayne McDonald and said, " We have been here every Wednesday and love the judo sessions and the chance to meet Tom was awesome"
Tom Reed responded, "It's good to see judo being used as an engagement tool to get people into sport. What I have seen today shows that from the positive experiences that judo has provided the young people at George Salter, we may well have a future Olympian to represent Team GB from the Black Country."
Pure Sports Sportivate Football session at Ellowes Hall School, Dudley, received a visit from Sue Smith, who has 90 Senior Caps for England's Women's Football team. Sue joined the session where participants were trying blind football as part of a wider football course.
"I have learnt that playing blind football is mainly about building trust and communication with your team mates, which is definitely something that I can use in other sports that I try" - Nathan Guest aged 14.
"I think Sportivate is providing a brilliant legacy from the Games, it gives loads of kids a chance to find a sport that they enjoy and it is supporting local clubs to bring in new members by signposting people into organisations that can help them take up a sporting habit for life" - Simon Wilkes, Coach at Pure Sport
Information on the Sportivate programme in the Black Country can be found by clicking here
Notes to Editors
The Black Country BeActive Partnership is the County Sports Partnership covering Dudley, Sandwell, Walsall and Wolverhampton. Please contact Suzanne Gardner, Commissioning Manager at the Partnership for further details on the Black Country Sportivate Programme at Suzanne_gardner@blackcountryconsortium.co.uk or on 01384 471120
Sport England is focused on the delivery of a mass participation legacy from the 2012 Olympic and Paralympic Games. Sport England invests National Lottery and Exchequer funding in organisations and projects that will grow and sustain participation in grassroots sport and create opportunities for people to excel at their chosen sport.
Sportivate
Sportivate is part of the Places People Play is a £135 million National Lottery programme being delivered by Sport England, in partnership with the British Olympic Association (BOA) and the British Paralympic Association (BPA) with the backing of The London Organising Committee of the Olympic Games and Paralympic Games (LOCOG) and the London 2012 Inspire mark.
16th August: Coaching Bursary Scheme is Relaunched
The BeActive Coaching Bursary has been relaunched and we are now taking applications.
There are some changes to the process that we hope will enable the County Sport Partnership to work with all clubs to support development and grow participation, in addition to making the bursary payment process easier and ensure faster payments.
Some of the changes include:
- New email application process
- Higher level of bursary funding for those coaches who are pursuing qualifications to deliver specific National Governing Body of sport programmes.
- Registration with Coach web and Volunteer web to enable easier recording of volunteer hours.
- Generic Coach Education Sport Maker Workshops
- All payments to be made by BACS within agreed time period
- Amended forms that will gather information that will help steer our investment into clubs.
Please note: any outstanding 2011/12 awarded bursaries have until 31st August 2012 to be claimed. If individual/club has not submitted outstanding bursary KPI forms along with Bank details or been in contact to advise of current status of bursaries then they will be null and void.
Deadline For Applications for First Funding Round is: 12th October 2012
Please Visit the BeActive Website for
- Guidelines to the coaching bursary, who can apply, Conditions of Bursary
- Application Forms
- Deadlines and Outline of new process
- List of National Governing Body of Sport programmes
There will be a change in your point of contact. Craig Taylor, who has recently taken on the position of Assistant Sports Officer, will be leading this scheme
All new applications are to be sent through to the new generic email address:
coachbursary@blackcountryconsortium.co.uk
4th July: Time for Tennis at George Salter Academy
You can now play tennis at George Salter Academy at discount rates at certain times. The advert below can be downloaded in full here
3rd July: Stars Shine at the 2012 Jaguar Land Rover Black Country School Games
Team GB women's basketball star Dominique Allen, and Blind Dave Heeley were among the special guests at the 2012 Jaguar Land Rover Black Country School Games on Friday 29th June.
Around 1,000 pupils from across the Black Country took part in the school games, which was held at Aldersley Leisure Village, Bert Williams Leisure Centre and Wolverhampton Lawn Tennis and Squash Club. The event saw entrants compete in 12 sports including Tennis, Wheelchair Basketball, Tri Golf, and Boccia.
In the Netball competition, the winning school was Wolverhampton Girls High School, with George Salter Academy second and Ellowes Hall School third.
St Joseph's RC from Dudley were the winners in the Rugby Union event, with Hydesville Tower in Walsall coming out on top in the tennis event.
St Anne's from Walsall came out first in the Tri-Golf, with Moat Farm from Sandwell winning the boys swimming.
The event began with an opening ceremony, which included a flag procession, performances from Antics who were one of 10 finalists in the popular entertainment show 'Got To Dance', and the Godiva Dancers.
We also welcomed some of the very talented athletes from the Black Country who took part in the national UK School Games in May 2012 which was held in London 2012 venues, with many of them winning gold, silver or bronze medals.
During the games there was a range of opportunities for participants including Flakey the graffiti artist, the School Games Festival diary room and 'come and try it' hockey sessions run by England Hockey.
On behalf of Team GB, Dominique Allen accepted a collection of 'The Black Country Supports You' postcards sharing messages of support for all athletes as they compete at London 2012. Dominique said how 'inspirational' these postcards were, and will be, for all the athletes that read them.
Blind Dave commented "the School Games Festival is an inspiration to us all on what can be achieved by young people as leaders, participants and officials, and shows what a great place the Black Country is".
For all the games results please visit www.the-blackcountry.com/beactive
2nd July: Black Country Good Cause Shortlisted for National Award
Sport Structures from Birmingham has won a place in the semi-finals of The National Lottery Awards 2012 and is calling on local support when public voting opens on 26 June. The National Lottery Awards recognise the positive impact that Lottery-funded projects both big and small make to local communities. Sport Structures is one of only 10 projects to make it through in the Best Sport Project category in the annual search to find the UK's favourite Lottery-funded projects.
Sport Structures has given thousands of people in the West Midlands the help, support and qualifications to become sports coaches and volunteers.
Simon Kirkland, Managing Director of Sport Structures, says: "Sport Structures has helped thousands of people across the West Midlands to gain confidence and positively change their lifestyles through sport. Volunteering and education is key to moving people into employment. We have helped the younger generation realise that they can achieve anything if they put their minds to it. Our work has also given adults of all ages opportunities to develop volunteering skills and gain qualifications to get people active in sport in their local communities."
People are being urged to help Sport Structures make it through to the final three and an appearance on the Awards show, which is broadcast live on BBC One later this year. The winning project in each of the categories will receive national recognition at the star-studded event and a £2,000 cash prize[1] to spend on their project.
Actor John Barrowman supports the awards: "So many lives are being changed by the unsung heroes working with National Lottery funding. The National Lottery Awards pay tribute to their selfless dedication. National Lottery players raise a massive £30 million a week for Good Causes across the UK.
"They should be proud that they are helping arts, sport, heritage and community groups near them. Now is the chance for everyone to vote for their local project so it gets national recognition."
There are seven categories in the Awards each reflecting the main areas of Lottery funding: arts, sport, heritage, health, environment, education and voluntary/charity.
Voting for the semi-finals starts at 9am on Tuesday 26 June and ends at midday on Sunday 22 July. To vote for Sport Structures call 0844 836 9727 or log on to www.lotterygoodcauses.org.uk/awards. Please do not call before lines open as your vote will not be counted but you will be charged for the call.
The three projects in each category with the highest number of votes will go through to the final round of public voting later this summer.
29th June: The Day has Arrived for the Jaguar Land Rover Black Country School Games Festival
Excitement is mounting as the Jaguar Land Rover Black Country School Games is being held today across 3 venues in Wolverhampton.
Over 1,000 young participants are taking part in the 2012 Black Country School Games Festival today at 3 venues across the Black Country. Aldersley Leisure Village, The Bert Williams Leisure Centre and Wolverhampton Lawn Tennis and Squash Club.
180 young leaders and 60 Games Officials are helping to support our young athletes as they compete for the title of Black Country School Games Champions.
Representing 136 school teams, schools will compete across 12 sports. This includes - representing Dudley in the Netball event are Ellowes Hall and Redhill. Representing Sandwell in the Swimming event is Moat Farm. Representing Walsall in the Volleyball is St Francis and representing Wolverhampton in the Kwik Cricket are Warstones Primary and Dunstall Hill.
Cheering on our young participants are the Mayors of Wolverhampton and Sandwell, Team GB Basketball star Dominique Allen, Blind Dave Heeley and Wolves Ambassador Matt Murray, to name just a few.
The event is particularly special for School Games Festival Patron, Dominique Allen, who commented, "12 years ago I was competing in the Millennium Youth Games in the Black Country and now to be selected for Team GB, shows that dreams can true. That's why I wanted to become a School Games Festival patron".
Blind Dave added "the School Games Festival is an inspiration to us all on what can be achieved by young people as leaders, participants and officials and shows what a great place the Black Country is".
During the games there will also be a range of opportunities for participants including Flakey the graffiti artist, base studio mc and rapping as well as the School Games Festival diary room. In addition, and on behalf of Team GB, Dominique will be accepting a collection of 'The Black Country Supports You' postcards sharing messages of support for all athletes as they compete in London in their chosen sport.
To download the full press release, click here
27th June: Black Country Schools Design a Torch for Festival Event
Schools from across the Black Country have competed to design a torch for the Jaguar Land Rover Black Country School Sport Festival being held on Friday 29 June in Wolverhampton. The Festival's torch competition, which is taking place a day before the Olympic torch visits the Black Country, is an integral part of the cultural programme for the Festival, which also includes graffiti wall, dance, a world record attempt as well as MC and Rap artists.
Over 1,000 young participants will be taking part in the event on Friday, and 3 schools have been selected as finalists in the 'design a torch' competition.
The 3 finalists are Penn Fields School, Our Lady and St Chad Catholic Sports College and Westcroft School Sport and Vocational College. The winner will be announced during the closing ceremony, with the intention of the winning entry being designed to promote the Festival in the future.
Representing 136 school teams, schools will compete across 12 sports to become School Games Champions. These sports include Kwik Cricket, Tag Rugby, Tennis and Boccia. Schools qualify by representing their school in inter-school competitions.
Commenting on the competition, Billy Downie, Black Country Local Organising Committee chair added "The Festival is about providing as many young people as possible with the opportunity to take part in different levels of competition, with the torch competition and cultural programme being at the heart of our Festival it will truly give young people their moment to shine"
To download the full press release, click here
25th June: Team GB Olympian to Attend Black Country School Games
With less than a week to go to the Black Country School Games, organisers are getting excited to welcome a Team GB Olympian to the event.
Black Country girl Dominique Allen, has been selected for Team GB women's basketball squad, and is delighted to be attending the Black Country School Games Festival on Friday 29 June as an Ambassador.
Dudley born Dominique made her senior debut when she represented Great Britain at under-20s level in the 2008 and 2009 European Championships. She started participating in basketball through Dudley's Sportlink scheme and progressed to the Black Country Youth Games through a selection process and training provided by Dudley Sport & Physical Activity department. She also went on to represent the Black Country in the Millennium Games in Southampton 2000.
Dominique is a brilliant example of progressing through the local ranks as are Jordanne Whiley and Kristian Thomas who both came through sports development programmes in Dudley.
Dominique will be supporting and encouraging our young Black Country talent at the School Games event on Friday, where hopefully more future Olympians will be discovered.
We wish all our Black Country Olympians success as they represent Team GB in a few weeks time!
The Black Country supports You!
Click here for the full press release
22nd June: One Week to Go to the 2012 Black Country School Games
With just 1 week to go to the Black Country School Games, the race is now on for those final qualifying places.
Following the success of last year's summer event, over 1,000 young participants are now raring to go in the 2012 Black Country School Games Festival. Funded by Sport England, this year's event on Friday 29th June will be held at 3 venues across the Black Country. Aldersley Leisure Village, The Bert Williams Leisure Centre and Wolverhampton Lawn Tennis and Squash Club.
We are very pleased to announce that the principal sponsor for this years event is Jaguar Land Rover. In announcing their support, Nicola Armstrong from Jaguar Land Rover commented "we are delighted to be sponsoring the Black Country School Games. It will be fantastic to watch all these young people taking part in sport and have the opportunity to excel in an activity that they love. It is inspiring to see how the Black Country has come together to organise a pinnacle sporting event in what should be a fantastic Olympic year."
This year's event will bring together over 1000 young participants, 180 young leaders and 60 Games Officials, and will be the culmination of many months of inter school competition across Dudley, Sandwell, Walsall and Wolverhampton.
Representing 136 school teams, schools will compete across 12 sports to become School Games Champions. These sports include Kwik Cricket, Tag Rugby, Tennis and Boccia. Schools qualify by representing their school in inter-school competitions.
Commenting on the event, Billy Downie, Black Country Local Organising Committee added "The Festival is about providing as many young people as possible with the opportunity to take part in different levels of competition, with many events organised and delivered by young people themselves. It was a great spectacle last year and this year's plans are even better".
Click here to download the official press release
7th June: England Athletics Local Coach Development Programme
England Athletics have announced Coach Development dates in the West Midlands in the coming months. The Birmingham HiPAC, Alexander Stadium will host sessions on the following dates
13th October 2012
17th November 2012
2nd March 2013
All dates are Saturdays and sessions will take place from 10.00am-1.00pm.
31st May: Black Country Youngsters Inspired into Sport as Olympic Excitement Takes Hold
More than 1,500 young people in the Black Country have been inspired to get involved in sport thanks to Sport England's Sportivate Olympic and Paralympic legacy initiative. Sportivate has proved to be a hit with young people at Westminster School in Sandwell. The school caters for young people with learning and behavioural difficulties and wheelchair basketball sessions there have been extremely popular. It is clear that the students all enjoy the sessions and many hope to continue playing sport. Brandon Carson, aged 15, is happy that he has been given the chance to take part in a sport other than football. "I only used to play football", he said. "It's good to have a change and try other things. I'd like to try long jump and Parkour in the future".
The sessions have also benefited 18-year-old Toni, whose mother Gaynor Blunn said: "For Toni it's been brilliant. She doesn't have much of a social life outside of school so this gives her the chance to spend time with her friends. It's given her a lot of get up and go."
Sportivate is aimed at 14- to 25-year-olds who currently aren't playing sport in their own time, giving them the chance to find a sport they enjoy. The young people are then helped to find a club or venue where they can keep taking part. The Black Country BeActive Partnership is investing the Sportivate National Lottery funding into a number of sports projects across Dudley, Sandwell, Walsall and Wolverhampton including;
· Skiking (Cross Country Skiing, minus the snow!)
· Baseball and Softball sessions
· Netball
· Zumba
· Climbing
· Golf
· Multi sport sessions
Further details can be found at www.the-blackcountry.com/default.asp?PageID=429&n=Sportivate+Participants
Simon Hall, Black Country BeActive Partnership Director said "We are looking to maximise interest in the London 2012 Olympic and Paralympic Games to inspire a generation to become more active and are delighted with the impact that the Sportivate programme is having across the Black Country. It provides an ideal opportunity for young people in the Black Country to discover a sport that they really enjoy and support them to continue to be active in the longer term and I would encourage anyone aged 14 25 years old to get involved"
Sport England's Executive Director for Community Sport Mike Diaper said: "It's fantastic that so many teenagers and young adults are getting into sport through Sportivate. Whether it's BMX biking, canoeing or netball, I've been really struck by the enthusiasm of the young people on Sportivate sessions and impressed that so many of them are continuing to play once the course is over."
As part of the Places People Play official Olympic legacy programme, Sportivate will benefit hundreds of thousands of young people over four years. To help inspire and motivate the participants, our Sporting Champions - a team of current and retired elite athletes are visiting Sportivate sessions to share their experiences and enthusiasm for sport.
