The Everyone Active's Sporting Champions scheme returns for 2025, offering aspiring athletes free access to over 240 leisure centers nationwide and mentoring from Olympic and Paralympic champions.

Since 2016, the programme has supported over 6,000 athletes, investing more than £2 million in developing young talent. In 2024, the scheme helped 26 athletes compete in the Paris Olympics and Paralympics, securing 23 medals - including nine gold, six silver, and eight bronze.

Olympic silver medallist Colin Jackson returns as Ambassador for 2025-2026, leading a team of elite mentors including Lauren Steadman, Lutalo Muhammad, Richard Kilty, Maisie Summers-Newton, and Harry Aikines-Aryeetey. These champions will provide practical guidance and motivational support throughout the year.

"After a summer of monumental success in 2024, I am more excited than ever to support athletes of all ages and from all disciplines to achieve their dreams," says Jackson. "I'm passionate about nurturing young talent, and the Sporting Champions scheme goes above and beyond in this mission."

The programme's impact is evident in its 2024 success, where 14 athletes made their international debuts at Paris, collectively winning 11 medals. This achievement demonstrates the scheme's effectiveness in developing emerging talent from grassroots to elite level.

Richard Bell, Everyone Active's Stratford contract manager, emphasizes the programme's inclusive approach: "We are delighted to support up-and-coming athletes on their journey to success. We believe it is important to cater to all sections of society to ensure that every budding athlete has access to the same facilities and opportunities."

Applications open from February 11 to March 11, 2025. Athletes, coaches, and mentors can apply at easportingchampions.com. Follow @easportingchamps on Instagram for updates and success stories.

The scheme combines access to state-of-the-art facilities with expert mentorship, creating a comprehensive support system for aspiring athletes. Whether aiming for Olympic glory or performance improvement, the Sporting Champions scheme provides the resources and inspiration needed to achieve sporting excellence.

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