More bursaries for island’s sports teams

Monday 02 December 2019

Utmost Worldwide has provided more bursaries for island sports ahead of the 2021 Island Games, continuing its ongoing support of the Guernsey Island Games Association.

The bursaries are awarded on a rotational basis, meaning each of the island’s 18 teams will receive funding twice during the organisation’s 10-year sponsorship of the Guernsey team, and this time the archery and sailing teams are the lucky ones.

The Guernsey Sailing Trust will be using their bursary money to continue to improve the ‘Push the Boat Out’ (PTBO) initiative in Guernsey. PTBO is run in conjunction with sailing and windsurfing clubs across the country with its primary purpose being to encourage people to try out these activities. 

Over the last few years, the Royal Yachting Association has used this initiative to be as diverse and inclusive as possible, with the specific aim of narrowing the gender gap in sports.

PTBO has recently been under review to ensure that it remains a useful tool for local clubs and centres. As part of its upcoming development, the bursary money will be used to purchase the resources needed within the new sign-up process. These resources refer to banners, foam boards, postcards, wristbands, feather flags, rash vests and bunting. 

The Bowmen of Guernsey intend to use their bursary money to bring a UK coach over to the island on a regular basis, which will benefit all members. The club is also looking to use the money to help more of their members to become certified as instructors or level one coaches. Certified members will then be able to help coach those who are new to the sport.

Giorgio Daboni, Chief Executive Officer, Utmost Worldwide in Guernsey, said:  

“So much hard work goes on behind the scenes in the island’s sports clubs and we’re delighted to hear how our bursaries support coaching and community sessions that benefit islanders who enjoy sport at all levels.” 

Brian Allen, Chairman of the Guernsey Island Games Association, commented:  

“There is no doubt that these bursaries help the island’s sports to thrive. Whether it is replacing kit, funding coaches or supporting initiatives that encourage people to have a go, the funds make an impact that will benefit the clubs for years to come.”

Utmost Worldwide is committed to continuing their sponsorship of GIGA until 2021, when Guernsey will host the XIX Natwest Island Games, when they will also be Guernsey 2021 Games sponsor.

Pictured top: David Aslett, Brian Allen, Giorgio, Zoe Gray, Morgan Taylor and Lisa Ray.