Grants Available for Aspiring Sports Stars in South London
Funding opportunities are open for young athletes in South London to help them excel in their sports careers
South London, UK, GLL Sport Foundation, Athletes, Funding
South London: Leisure operators GLL are calling on young athletes to apply for funding in 2025. This is a great chance for those looking to take their sports careers to the next level.
The GLL Sport Foundation has been around for 17 years, helping talented young sportspeople with funding and support. They manage sports facilities in places like Croydon, Greenwich, Lewisham, and Merton under the ‘Better’ brand.
Last year, they helped 308 athletes in South London with over £187,000 in funding. The goal is to nurture future stars, like Olympic gold medallist Alex Yee and sprinter Darryl Neita, who both received grants in the past.
In fact, Ladywell Arena has just been renamed the ‘Alex Yee Ladywell Arena’ to honor his achievements. A GLL spokesperson mentioned that providing funding and support is crucial for spreading opportunities in local communities.
For 2025, the GSF Awards will offer £1.4 million in bursaries and free gym memberships across the UK, including in South London. This is the largest independent athlete support program in the country.
Powerlifter Siobhan Taylor shared how being a GSF-funded athlete at Merton Weightlifting Club changed her life. She’s now a British, European, and World champion, all while working as a nurse.
Kayak champion Arina Kontchakov also benefited from GSF support last year. She made the National Junior team and won her first international medal, thanks to the sponsorship.
GSF Awards include free access to Better Gyms and Leisure Centres across the UK. If you’re interested, check out their website for more info and to apply. The application window is open from December 20 to February 20.
Pictured top: Alex Yee, left, and Darryl Neita, who have both benefited from grants on their respective paths to medal glories (Pictures: GLL)