Olympic-backed talent scheme returns to support Three Rivers’ aspiring athletes

The talent development programme, which has already helped more than 6,000 aspiring athletes nationwide, has reopened applications.

Successful applicants will receive free access to Everyone Active's 240-plus centres nationwide, including William Penn Leisure Centre and South Oxhey Leisure Centre, managed in partnership with Three Rivers District Council.

Athletes will benefit from free access to state-of-the-art training facilities and exclusive mentoring sessions with Olympians and Paralympians, covering crucial topics like nutrition, fitness, event preparation, mental health and social media.

The scheme's return comes off the back of an exceptional summer for British sport, with 26 Sporting Champions athletes competing in the Paris Olympics and Paralympics, bringing home nine gold, six silver and eight bronze medals.

Fourteen of these athletes were making their debuts on the international stage.

Olympic silver medallist Colin Jackson CBE returns as the scheme's ambassador for 2025-26, leading a star-studded lineup who have starred on the Olympic and Paralympic stage – Lauren Steadman, Lutalo Muhammad, Richard Kilty, Maisie Summers-Newton and Harry Aikines-Aryeetey.

Colin said: "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. I'm passionate about nurturing young talent and the Sporting Champions scheme goes above and beyond in this mission."

The programme, which has invested over £2 million in supporting young athletes since 2016, demonstrates Everyone Active's commitment to nurturing local sporting talent.

John Sewell, Area Contract Manager at Everyone Active, said: "We are delighted to support up-and-coming athletes in Three Rivers on their journey to success.

"As a leisure provider working in partnership with Three Rivers District Council, we believe it is crucially important to cater for all sections of the community, ensuring all budding athletes have access to the same facilities and opportunities.

"The Sporting Champions scheme has supported thousands of athletes over the years, and we are proud to be continuing this again in 2025. We hope to continue making a real difference to our athletes' success."

Emma Sheridan, Three Rivers District Council’s Associate Director for Environment, said: “We are thrilled to see the Sporting Champions scheme return in Three Rivers. This is a fantastic opportunity for local talent to take advantage of to reach their full potential. I would encourage our up-and-coming athletes to apply today.”

Applications close on Tuesday 11 March 2025.

Aspiring athletes can apply via easportingchampions.com. For more information, follow @easportingchamps on Instagram.