Support offered to talented athletes

A PROGRAMME for talented athletes, which supported Warrington Paralympian silver medallist John Stubbs this year is now open for submissions for next year.
LiveWire’s Talented Athlete Programme will provide support and guidance to local sportsmen and women to help them get a head start in their careers.
The programme supported 25 athletes this year to help them achieve their goals by providing regular support during training programmes, expert knowledge and workshops and a free membership to all LiveWire leisure facilities across Warrington.
One of those who benefited was 51 year-old John Stubbs who brought home a silver medal in archery from the Rio Paralympics.
The archer, who lives in Woolston, fought off strong competition in the open compound discipline at Rio to win silver after winning a gold medal in Beijing in 2008.
John, who was awarded an MBE in 2006 for his services to archery, said: “The talented athlete programme has allowed me to access facilities and support and has led me to be recognised for my accomplishments in my local town.
“I think it is important to act as an ambassador for not only archery but sport in general and the Talented Athlete Programme allows me pass on my knowledge and promote sport for all within Warrington.”
The scheme, which is now in its fourth year, is open to any Warrington resident over the age of 14 who is already competing at a national level in a Sport England recognised sport.
Over the last four years it has supported athletes competing in a range of sports including athletics, boxing, handball, karate and water polo to name a few.
Thirty places are up for grabs with one-to-one support for strength and conditioning programmes as well as advice on nutrition and goal setting also on offer as part of the programme.
James Birdsey, strategic manager for Active LiveWire, said: “We’re very proud of the many athletes who have gone onto to reach goals following the support from LiveWire’s Talented Athlete Programme.
“This year we hope to support even more young sportspeople across the town and help them achieve their full potential.”
To apply for the programme, please visit www.livewirewarrington.org. Applications for this year’s programme close on Friday November 25.