A pioneering sports identification programme in Middlesbrough is seeking out the next generation of sporting talent through a special session focused on natural athletic abilities.
Identifying Natural Athletic Abilities
The Sports Gifted & Talented Identification Programme aims to find young people who excel in areas such as speed, agility, balance and coordination. These natural abilities can give them an edge across a range of disciplines. For many participants, this may be the first time they realise they have the attributes to succeed in and enjoy sport.
Children who are identified through the programme are invited to a free holiday programme where they will be tutored by top coaches from local clubs at their club's facilities.
Pilot Project Success
As part of a pilot project over the last six months, 40 Year 5 and 6 pupils from North Ormesby and Brambles Farm primary schools were invited to a special session at Middlesbrough Sports Village on Monday, July 20. Delivery of the project has been supported by sports students from Middlesbrough College and Middlesbrough Football Club Foundation.
Two students have achieved a Level 1 England Athletics Coaching Award through the project and are now members of and coaching at Middlesbrough Athletics Club.
Breaking Down Barriers
The project is funded by the Tees Valley Community Foundation and You've Got This, and led by Public Health South Tees. It aims to break down barriers to joining sports clubs and enable children to explore sports they may not have previously considered. Middlesbrough Mandale Athletics Club is also a partner in the project.
Nat Creasey, club chairman of Middlesbrough Mandale Athletics Club, said: "We know that there are talented young athletes in every corner of our town and we want to give them every opportunity to take part and succeed in athletics. We are looking forward to growing this project and contributing to releasing the enormous potential of Middlesbrough's young people."
Community and Council Support
Councillor Jan Ryles, Middlesbrough Council's executive member for public health, said: "Sport really is for everyone, and is a great way to keep in shape, learn new skills and make lasting friendships. This fantastic project is all about raising the sporting aspirations of children in Middlesbrough and helping connect them with the many excellent sports clubs, coaches and facilities on our doorstep."
She added: "For those with natural flair and determination, a hobby can also become a passion and even a life-changing career. It's well known that the earlier talent is identified, the better chance it has of success in the long-term, and I have no doubt that our pioneering Gifted & Talented programme will help to unearth and inspire some stars of the future."
