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North East on road to 2012 success

As the countdown begins to the 2012 Olympics, Sport England North East has announced over £3 million investment into club and performance sport through its Club and Coach Fund.

This cash has already led to the recruitment of some 33 coaches. Not only will the coaches make a difference to the people they train but they will also have an impact on other coaches across the region, acting as mentors and role models to help raise the bar and improve standards.

Judith Rasmussen, regional director with Sport England North East, said: “Our investment in this network of outstanding coaches and clubs is testament to our commitment to ensure that everyone gets the very best start possible in sport and reaches their full potential. We have always boasted high quality facilities in the North East and to have the people in place to support this will have a huge impact.”

Peter Root, regional manager with British Cycling, the National Governing Body for the sport, said: “The Club and Coach Fund enabled British Cycling to employ a coach to work solely within the North East. Jon Bateman has already made an impact on coaching cycling in schools and clubs around the region and will see the introduction of a Youth Racing League in 2009 to continue the search for future Olympians from the region.”

Judith Rasmussen concluded: “The success of our regional athletes in Beijing demonstrates that the North East has the passion and talent to enjoy sporting success. Benefiting from world class clubs and taking part under the watchful eye of world class coaches will encourage more people to become involved and excel in their chosen sport. We may find the next Steve Cram or Tanni Grey Thompson.”

This was posted in Bdaily's Members' News section by Ruth Mitchell .