SPORTSwww.sportsmanagement.co.uk MANAGEMENT VOLUME 13 Q4 2009

GROWING THE GRASSROOTS Bringing fencing to a wider audience

MICHAL KREJZA The head of the EU Sport Unit talks about its policies

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Hippo Leisure… Revitalise, Rejuvenate, Reinvent EDITOR’S LETTER Celebrating Loughborough

his year is the centenary of Loughborough University and an opportunity for the industry to T recognise and salute the amazing contribution this institution has made to the development of the sporting landscape in the UK and beyond over the last century. It’s no exaggeration to say that sport has been massively enhanced by the work done at Loughborough on so many levels, from training sports scientists, administrators and coaches to researching sport-related issues and from sharing information and best practice with sports professionals across the industry to supporting the training and development of sportsmen and women: 55 past or present Loughborough students were selected for Team GB in Beijing. PHOTO: ALAN EDWARDS PHOTOGRAPHY PHOTO: ALAN EDWARDS Beth Tweddle wins Established in 1909 as The Loughborough Technical Institute and renamed Loughborough College in gold at the 2009 World 1920, the institution rapidly developed its reputation for sporting excellence and in 1966, the Charter Championships was signed to establish a university at Loughborough as the first technological university in e-mail: please use contact’s and . The original college remains as a further education facility offering full-time and part-time [email protected] qualifications from 16 plus, with some courses endorsed by the university. SUBSCRIPTIONS At a time when few had access to proper sports facilities, Loughborough committed to an ambitious Julie Albone building programme. An open air pool was built by staff and students in the 1920s, followed by an +44 (0)1462 471915 EDITOR athletics and student-designed sports pavilion in 1937, and the establishment of a PE department Liz Terry and a school of athletics in the same year. Facility investment continued with the opening of a new sports +44 (0)1462 431385 MANAGING EDITOR Many national governing bodies, lobbying and research organisations Karen Maxwell +44 (0)1462 471920 are now headquartered in and around Loughborough, creating an PUBLISHER epicentre for sporting excellence based around the university Nadeem Shaikh +44 (0)1462 471902 hall with a gymnasium and state of the art swimming pool in 1939 and new gym and sports hall in 1946. NEWS EDITOR Investment has been ongoing in recent years with the opening of the Sir John Beckwith Centre for Tom Walker +44 (0)1462 471934 Sport, which is home to the School of Sport and Exercise Science and the Sports Development Centre, JOURNALISTS along with a new 50m swimming pool and a High Performance Athletics Centre. A National Martin Nash Academy opened on the campus in 2003 and the latest investment, The Sports Technology Institute, +44 (0)1462 471911 launched in 2008, taking Loughborough further into the sports technology sector, with facilities to Pete Hayman +44 (0)1462 471938 develop cutting edge training equipment, coaching aids and clothing and footwear for elite athletes. PRODUCTS EDITORS Decades of care in developing its infrastructure have given the university an unrivalled position in Martin Nash/Mark Edmonds terms of its overall offer and have acted as a magnet for other sporting interests. Many sports governing +44 (0)1462 471933 bodies, lobbying and research organisations are now headquartered in and around Loughborough, DISPLAY ADVERTISING creating an epicentre for sporting excellence, while national team send their John Challinor +44 (0)1582 607970 sportspeople to train at Loughbourough – one example being our cover star, Jan Williams Beth Tweddle, who trained at the university while in the junior GB squad. +44 (0)1462 471909 Combining study with sport at a UK university is a difficult balancing act Tessa Alexander +44 (0)1462 471903 and many top sportspeople choose to continue their studies in the US, DESIGN where the system is set up to combine elite sport with academic success. Ed Gallagher Loughborough is one of the few places where it’s possible to train +44 (0)1905 20198 at an international level via both the Loughborough Sports Scholarship Andy Bundy +44 (0)1462 471924 Foundation programme which funds 200 athletes across a range of Claire Toplis sports or by getting involved with the intramural programme which +44 (0)1462 471910 ensures students can continue to play sport at a high level while studying. INTERNET Dean Fox +44 (0)1462 471900 Liz Terry, editor [email protected] Tim Nash +44 (0)1462 471917 CIRCULATION MANAGER the leisure media company publishes Michael Emmerson +44 (0)1462 471932 FINANCIAL CONTROL Sue Davis +44 (0)1395 519398 FINANCIAL ADMIN Denise Gildea +44 (0)1462 471930

Issue 4 2009 © cybertrek 2009 Read Sports Management online sportsmanagement.co.uk/digital 3 ISSUE 4 2009 IN THIS ISSUE

14 Michal Krejza on sport across Europe 52 Athletics facilities get investment 22 Fencing takes flight

66 Shaping play in the community 45 Maintaining sports surfaces 28 City Stadium

5 Letters to the editor 35 Profile: Judy Murray Phil Sandilands speaks to Andy Murray’s 6 Industry news mother about her plans to develop a world-class tennis centre in Scotland 12 People news 41 Olympic overview 13 SAPCA news Crispin Andrews finds out how existing venues will be converted to host 2012 14 Interview: Michal Krejza Karen Maxwell talks to the head of the 45 Long-term benefits Sport Unit at the European Commission of maintenance about sports strategy and championing The importance of regular upkeep is 68 Hemel’s snowed in sport at government level across Europe highlighted by SAPCA’s Colin Young 66 More than playgrounds 17 Analysis: John Goodbody 50 2012 profile: Play England’s Richard Newson introduc- Rio gets the 2016 Olympiad Jean Tomlin talks to Karen Maxwell es the Play Shaper seminars, which offer about LOCOG’s volunteering programme a joined up approach to play provision 18 Talkback: How many 50m pools do we need? 52 tracking success: 68 Let it snow Karen Maxwell asks the experts Pete Hayman checks out recent invest- Kath Hudson visits the new £32m ment in athletic facilities that are key to snow centre at Hemel Hempstead 22 Growing the grassroots: Fencing the sport’s continuing growth We highlight the roles of the British 71 Lighting: The Snow Centre Fending Association and England 55 half marathon Hugh King highlights the key lighting Fencing in increasing participation Kath Hudson talks to the key people in- issues at the new snow centre volved in the preparation of this event, 26 The design and construction to ensure its success from an elite and 75 sport-kit.net of natural sportsturf mass-participation point of view Elite athlete Darren Campbell and his Billy Martin looks at best practice in the nutritionist promote sports nutrition creation of natural turf amenities 58 Buyers’ brief: Temporary flooring Sports flooring for temporary events 76 SAPCA directory 28 New opening: 62 NGB restructuring 79 Sports Management directory Terry Stevens examines at how the new How NGBs are reviewing their stadium fits into Cardiff’s sporting life structure to increase participation 83 Diary and advertisers’ index

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Do you hold a strong opinion about your industry? Where are things going wrong, or right? Sports Management would love to hear from you. Email: [email protected] ISSUE 4 2009 2012 community delivery

digital magazine See Sports Management online www.sportsmanagement.co.uk/digital

news and jobs: For jobs and news visit www.sportsmanagement.co.uk or sign up for e-news on www.leisuresubs.com

subscribe: Sign up for Sports Management at www.leisuresubs.com or call: s excitement about 2012 +44 (0)1462 471915 builds, it’s frustrating that there is no workable legacy plan for attention buyers! community sport or the growing fi nd suppliers and A innovation updates sports and recreation industry. www.sport-kit.net The sole focus appears to be fund- ing the event and infrastructure, with the legacy of the Games relegated to rhetoric. Where are the innovation, man- agement time and structures to establish sustainable outcomes that will ensure more people are more physically active in the community following 2012? The culture surrounding the sports and recreation industry, as we prepare for 2012, is one of competition for resources and profile to take forward the buyers’ guide: objectives of our own organisations, rather than getting behind the delivery of For suppliers of products and services, turn to page 80 a commonly held vision of legacy. If we truly want our young people to take up active participation in sport and apply Olympic values to their lives, then it appears that the sports industry and vol- SAPCA unteer community sports deliverers are going to have to do it themselves. Sports Management Organisations such as Sports Leaders UK, with 200,000 participants annually, is the offi cial magazine of the meet real needs by encouraging inactive people to participate in sport and Sports and Play assisting them to develop sport in their communities. We have built a sustainable Construction infrastructure of qualification delivery at reasonable prices that are accessible to Association (SAPCA), the trade the majority. We don’t see the Games as a means of financing our activities and body for the UK’s sports facility neither do we think it should. We should ask not what the Games can do for us, construction industry. Sports Management and SAPCA work but what we can do for the Games. in partnership to promote Collaboration and partnership, with shared power over resources and decision high standards in the design, making, are essential if we are to deliver a genuine legacy for London 2012. construction and maintenance Linda Plowright, CEO, Sports Leaders UK of UK sports facilities

Issue 4 2009 © cybertrek 2009 Read Sports Management online sportsmanagement.co.uk/digital 5 NEWS

Funding to create 2,000 jobs in sport

he government has announced that it plans to create more than T 2,000 jobs in the sports and active leisure sectors. Extra funding will be channeled into the government’s £1bn Future Jobs Fund, which will be delivered by the National Skills Academy (NSA). NSA will deliver the initiative in partnership with the Youth Sport Trust, a number of national governing bodies (NGB), the Prince’s Trust and the Dame Kelly Holmes Legacy Trust. Together the organisations will aim to create and support new jobs in sport, giving young people the opportunity to develop ca- reers in coaching, leadership and sports Young people will get to develop careers in coaching development. Sport England is currently working with county sports partnerships ented sports coaches, administrators and can apply for jobs through the fund and several other NGBs to examine the community health workers – exactly the after being unemployed for 10 months. potential to create further opportunities people who will help us deliver a lasting The initiative was announced as Sport through the fund. legacy from the London Olympics.” England agreed to invest a further Secretary of State for Culture, Media The Future Jobs Fund will provide £1.38m in SkillsActive over the next two and Sport, Ben Bradshaw, said: “This is funding for 150,000 posts – at least years. SkillsActive will support 46 NGBs a big boost for community sport. These 100,000 for young people and 50,000 in in putting in place development pro- jobs will create a new generation of tal- unemployment hotspots. Young people grammes and delivering grassroots sport.

School sport “reaches New leisure centre for Scunthorpe new benchmark” More than half of all English school ork is set to get underway pupils have taken part in at least on the construction of a new three hours of sport a week over the W multi-million pound leisure past year, according to new research complex in Scunthorpe, Lincolnshire, published by the Department for after Sport England handed the scheme Children, Schools and Families (DCSF). a £750,000 funding boost. The government’s PE and Sport Preparatory work is scheduled to start Survey 2008-09 has reported that on 26 October at the site of the £21m schools are offering an average Pods facility, which will include a 390sq of 18.6 sports as part of their PE m (4,198sq ft) fitness suite, a 25m swim- lessons, with yoga, circus skills and ming pool and a training pool, a dance cheerleading increasing in popular- studio and a six-court sports hall. The new Pods centre is scheduled ity. Nearly all English schools offered A crèche and a café will also form part to open to the public in 2011 football and dance during the aca- of the complex, which will be built by demic year, while there has been an Bowmer and Kirkland and will comple- NLC cabinet member for sport, leisure increase in institutions offering cy- ment North Lincolnshire Council’s (NLC) and culture, Christine O’Sullivan, said: cling (50 per cent), golf (42 per cent) plans to refurbish the adjacent Central “The complex will provide very good and (34 per cent). Park. London-based architects Andrew sport and leisure opportunities for However, the study has revealed Wright Associates designed the centre. people of all abilities. It will also help a fall in the number of schools The development of the Pods, which us to tackle real health issues such as providing hockey, fitness, canoeing is scheduled to be completed in spring obesity and heart disease. and when compared 2011, has also received financial support “The Pods will encourage more people with 2007-08, although longer-term from the Yorkshire Forward regional to exercise – a key component of the trends have remained stable. development agency. government’s health strategy.”

6 Read Sports Management online sportsmanagement.co.uk/digital Issue 4 2009 © cybertrek 2009 NEWS AND JOBS UPDATED DAILY ONLINE AT WWW.SPORTSMANAGEMENT.CO.UK

GCCC submits stadium plans

planning application for a £10m redevelopment of the County A Ground in Bristol has been sub- mitted by County Cricket Club (GCCC) to the local authority. Bristol City Council (BCC) will now decide whether to approve the scheme, which is designed to ensure the venue is able to comply with the England and Wales Cricket Board’s (ECB) criteria for one day international status beyond 2011. GCCC intends to increase the County Plans include increasing capacity at the stadium to 20,000 Ground’s seating capacity to 20,000 as part of the proposals, which also people in order to help fund the scheme, one day international status beyond feature a new media centre, improved but has been reduced from 550 follow- 2011 and essential for the future viability conference facilities, an upgraded public ing the results of a public consultation of the club. We’ve hosted international gymnasium and an upgraded education with local residents and stakeholders. matches at County Ground since 1999 facility. The club is further planning to A spokesperson for GCCC said: “These and we have already secured an include student accommodation for 350 proposals are crucial to retaining our international match for 2011.

£0.5m boost for Durham University sports revamp

lans for the £6.7m refurbish- and a performance analysis suite, as well ment and development of sports as new facilities for disabled athletes and P facilities at Durham University’s an extended sports hall. Maiden Castle centre have been handed The scheme, which is scheduled for a funding boost by Sport England. completion in October 2010, is set to The funding body has contributed benefit the 90.2 per cent of university £500,000 towards the scheme as part students participating in sport, as well of its new Sustainable Facilities Fund, as help the institution’s community which aims to help establish a lasting outreach work. legacy from the London 2012 Olympic Emma Hall-Craggs, assistant director and Paralympic Games. of community outreach, said: “We’ve Durham University’s Sporting Futures invested heavily in staff to deliver the project includes a new indoor Facilities will include a three strategic strands of high perfor- tank, a fencing piste, indoor cricket nets multi-use sports court mance, participation and outreach.”

BIRMINGHAM’S SWIMMING PROVISION HIT BY FUNDING SHORTFALL

Plans by Birmingham Council to While the council decides how money will become available as we invest in the city’s swimming pool best to move ahead with the £102m go through this project. provision may be under threat – swimming investment programme, “Our intention is to deliver all these owing to financial shortcomings. £28.5m will be spent on rebuilding pools. I know there has been specula- According to the Birmingham Post, a Harborne Baths, while design prepa- tion that we are scrapping the Aquatics £73.5m shortfall could jeopardise pro- rations will go ahead at Stechford Centre but that is not the case.” posals to improve Stechford Cascades, Cascades, Sparkhill Baths and A public meeting will be held on 19 Sparkhill Baths and Moseley Road Baths Moseley Road Baths. October to discuss the future prospects and to construct the new Birmingham Cllr Mullaney told the local of the proposed Birmingham Aquatics Aquatics and Leisure Centre. newspaper: “As with any investment, and Leisure Centre.

Issue 4 2009 © cybertrek 2009 Read Sports Management online sportsmanagement.co.uk/digital 7 NEWS PIC: WWW.ISTOCKPHOTO.COM

Welsh judo centre opens in Cardiff

The new £1.1m Welsh National Judo The new sports centre will enhance the university campus Centre opened to the public at the Welsh Institute of on 29 October. New £7.6m centre for Ulster Facilities at the centre, which was built by Welsh construction company he University of Ulster is planning “As well as enhancing our campus Jehu Project Services, will include to build a £7.6m sports centre on its sports facilities, the new centre will international competition-standard T Coleraine campus. facilitate widening participation and un- facilities as well as a sports science Architects GM design have been com- derpins the university’s plan of consoli- and medicine centre. missioned to design the project, which dating activities at Coleraine.” Philip Carling, chair of the Sports is to be built near to existing student The centre will offer indoor training Council of Wales, said: “Having a residences. Professor Robert Hutchin- facilities for football, Gaelic games and dedicated facility for judo in Wales son, provost of the campus, said: “This rugby as well as a gym and a strength will make a huge difference when it exciting project represents the largest and conditioning suite. There will also comes to building up strength and single investment ever on the Coleraine be facilities for basketball, martial arts depth in the sport.” campus for student support. and dance.

£23m athletics SE announces sustainable grants venue planned lymouth City Council has received for Cumbria a £2m grant from Sport England P towards the construction costs of £23m stadium is to be built the city’s new regional sports centre. at Copeland Athletics Sta- The funding represents a fifth of Sport A dium in the Hensingham sub- England’s Sustainable Facilities Fund urb of Whitehaven, west Cumbria. (SSF) – a £10m pot for which Sport Eng- The new Cumbria Academy of land received a total of 69 applications. Sport will comprise a 14,000-capacity Six other projects across the UK qualified stadium linked via a concourse to a for funding from the SSF, with a further leisure centre offering a competi- four asked to develop their bids with the tion swimming pool and a four-court view of possibly receiving funding. The Life Centre in Plymouth received badminton hall. City Council and British £2m of Sport England funding There will also be a health and Cycling were awarded £3m towards fitness suite, internal and external plans to create a National Indoor BMX completed the successful line up for climbing walls and two dance studios. Centre in Sportcity, while Nottingham this year’s SSF funding. A shop, café and conference facili- Trent University will receive £700,000 Richard Lewis, chair of Sport England, ties will also be built. towards the redevelopment of the said: ”These investments will deliver The trustees of the academy have university’s sports facilities. sustainable sporting opportunities for hired an as yet unnamed, Man- Durham University (£500,000), Paign- thousands of people across the country. chester-based architect to design the ton Community and Sports College “The high quality facilities supported stadium. If the scheme is successful, (£300,000), Northrowram Community through this fund will help us deliver a the new stadium is scheduled to Sports and Activity Club (£175,000) lasting Olympic and Paralympic legacy of open within the next three years. and Burnage Rugby Club (£120,000) increased participation in sport.”

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Trump’s golf INDUSTRY COMMENT designs revealed

areth Hoskins Architects has unveiled the designs for Donald G Trump’s £1bn golf resort in Ab- erdeenshire, Scotland. The Trump International – Scotland golf complex on Menie Estate near Balmedie will include two 18-hole golf courses designed by golf architect Mar- tin Hawtree, which will be separated by Tim Lamb, CEO CCPR a clubhouse open to guests and visitors, a caddyshack, a short-game practice he recent announcement by area and a driving range. An artist’s impression of the site the government that it will Additional recreational activities will T introduce legislation to stop include an equestrian centre, an archery A residential village based around a OFWAT’s (The Water Services Regu- range and a tennis facility, while the central square with shops, cafés, pubs lation Authority) ‘rain tax’ and allow accommodation offering will comprise a and playgrounds will also be open to water companies to offer conces- 450-bedroom luxury hotel with a confer- residents and visitors alike. In December, sionary rates could save hundreds of ence centre and a beauty spa overlook- the scheme was granted outline plan- sports clubs from potential closure. ing the sea, adjacent to 950 holiday ning approval by the Scottish Govern- Clubs in some areas have been apartments and golf villas. ment following a public inquiry. subject to new charges which, in some cases, have increased their drainage bills by thousands of per cent. Many of these clubs have £31m Bolton pool project named been in operation for decades, often with large grounds but small he £31m swimming facility to be Bolton One will house an eight-lane, premises and they just haven’t been built in Bolton has been named, 25m swimming pool with seating for 250 equipped to absorb those charges. T just as the project has reached spectators; a therapeutic hydrotherapy A change from rateable value of financial close. pool for disabled people; a health and property to surface area could have The new centre, which will also boast fitness suite; an aerobics studio and a forced the closure of a substantial health and academic facilities, will be community gym. number of these clubs. known as Bolton One. The name was The scheme was developed by the Ultimately, this is a victory for chosen by Bolton Council, NHS Bolton BRAHM LIFT company and will be built common sense. Sports clubs are part and the University of Bolton, the three by the Eric Wright Group. The centre will of the fabric of all of our communi- organisations involved in the project. be managed by Serco. ties and to treat them like businesses just doesn’t make any sense. They don’t distribute profits, they are run by volunteers and exist purely to FOOTBALL LEAGUE CHIEF ISSUES FINANCE WARNING promote activity. We’re delighted that ministers Football League chair Lord Mawhin- debt is one of the main problems have listened to community groups ney has outlined his concerns about football currently faces as clubs “defy and been persuaded by their case. the long-term sustainability of the economic gravity” through the finan- It would have been all too easy to domestic game, with clubs “chasing a cial backing of rich owners. sweep something like this under the dream” funded by wealthy owners. Mawhinney said: “As a former gov- carpet but they have acted swiftly Speaking at the Leaders in Football ernment minister, I have had exposure and decisively to prevent our clubs event at the Stamford Bridge stadium to hundreds of businesses. Very few of from drowning. in London, Mawhinney told delegates them were debt-free because debt is There is further regulation bur- that the future of football could be at an integral part of running and grow- dening our sports clubs, but this risk as a result of the industry model ing a business. Debt is not the problem move shows that lobbying does and increasing player salaries. in football, unsustainable debt is. work and that it is worth working According to Mawhinney, unsustain- “The pressing question is whether together to ensure a brighter future able debt rather than manageable such a system can ever be sustainable.” for sport in this country.

Issue 4 2009 © cybertrek 2009 Read Sports Management online sportsmanagement.co.uk/digital 9 NEWS

Wembley Arena is London 2012 venue will be used as a Clubs will no longer be charged excessively for watering pitches venue for two sports at the London 2012 Olympic and Paralympic Games after the Olympic Board decided Clubs welcome rain tax decision against the construction of a tempo- rary facility. he government’s decision to put an However, environment secretary A temporary venue on North end to the “rainwater tax” system Hilary Benn announced at the Labour Greenwich Peninsula had been T of charging sports clubs and chari- party conference that the introduction planned to host the badminton and ties for water usage has been welcomed of a social water charging system will events, but by a number of UK sports organisations. now enable water companies to offer 2012 organisers now intend to use (See CCPR comment p.11) concessionary rates. Wembley for the sports. OFWAT, the regulatory body for the Brigid Simmonds, chair of the Central The relocation of the events are water industry, introduced the method Council of Physical Recreation, said: subject to approval from the sports’ in April 2008, which forced clubs and “Clubs in some areas have been subject respective world governing bodies. voluntary organisations to cut back on to a rain tax, which has increased their activities due to increased water bills. drainage bills by thousands of per cent.”

Flintshire’s £10m Rugby to benefit from energy scheme House of Sport he (RFU) plans cancelled and energy comparison website T uSwitch.com have launched a new he £10m House of Sport facil- partnership designed to raise funds for ity being planned for Flintshire, community clubs across England. T North Wales, will not be going Rugby supporters using the dedicated ahead as planned due to the current Conversion Zone website to switch their economic climate. energy provider using uSwitch.com will The original plans, as reported in be able to raise an average of £12.89 for Leisure Opportunities in April this the club of their choice. year, involved demolishing the exist- According to the RFU, if 100 club mem- ing Deeside Leisure Centre and build- bers switch to another energy company Rugby clubs will receive funding ing a new facility. using the service and each encourage through consumer action However, it was revealed in a Flint- two more people to do the same while shire County Council executive group nominating the same club, it could gen- encourage their members and friends meeting last month (6 Oct), that the erate around £3,800. and family to use the Conversion Zone other existing leisure centre will now Funds raised through the partnership, the more they’ll gain. This can only help simply be refurbished. which will not impose an upper limit on to ensure that clubs remain sustainable The minutes for the meeting stated: the amount of money that an individual during these difficult financial times.” “In the context of greater financial club can raise, will be collected and Steve Weller, marketing director at constraints throughout the economy, distributed by the RFU, allowing clubs to uSwitch.com, added: “This is a win-win it became very clear that such an choose what to spend the money on. situation for consumers and grassroots option was unlikely to proceed as RFU national clubs development man- rugby. Consumers will raise vital funds originally envisaged.” ager, Andy Lees, said: “The more they for the clubs.”

10 Read Sports Management online sportsmanagement.co.uk/digital Issue 4 2009 © cybertrek 2009 NEWS AND JOBS UPDATED DAILY ONLINE AT WWW.SPORTSMANAGEMENT.CO.UK

Powerleague sold for £42m

Claude Littner (left), executive chair of Powerleague

owerleague, the UK’s largest five-a-side football operator, has agreed to a £42m takeover offer. P The company, which owns 43 centres nationwide, is being acquired by Patron Sports Leisure – a division of private equity group Patron Capital – which, with a 29 per cent stake, is already Powerleague’s biggest shareholder. Executive chair, Claude Littner, will receive £2.6m for his 6.1 per cent stake. Powerleague was formed in 1999 following the merger of Powerplay Soccer Centres and Anchor International, both investee companies of the 3i Group.

New centre for Ryedale

onstruction of a new Astroturf pitch when it opens sports centre in the in September 2010. C grounds of Malton Funding is being provided School in Central Ryedale will by Ryedale District Council, get underway at the beginning North Yorkshire County Council, of next year. Malton School and Derwent The £2.4m facility will com- Sports Association. prise a four-court badminton The Football Foundation is hall, a basketball court, a climb- yet to decide whether to award ing wall and a third-generation £400,000 towards the scheme.

WORK STARTS ON BASILDON VILLAGE Construction work has got underway at the site of the new £38m Basildon Sporting Village in Essex, which will boast the county’s first Olympic-sized swimming pool when complete. Community Solutions for Leisure (CSL) has been appointed to deliver the complex, which is included in the Pre-Games Training Camp guide for the London 2012 Olympics and is scheduled to open in 2011. The new sporting village, which will be built by CSL’s con- struction partner, Morgan Ashurst, will include a competition swimming pool, a 400-capacity spectator area, a learner pool, a sports hall, a gymnastics centre and a 100-station health and fitness club. Meeting rooms, a climbing wall, a café and six floodlit pitches are also included in the propos- als, along with a new 750-seat spectator stand.

Issue 4 2009 © cybertrek 2009 Read Sports Management online sportsmanagement.co.uk/digital 11 PEOPLE

BRITISH CYCLING REPRESENTED ON UCI The president of British Cycling, Brian Cookson OBE, was recently appointed to the International Cycling Union (UCI) Management Committee at its annual conference in . One of eight nominees for the posi- tion, he will now sit on the committee for the next four years. Commenting on his appointment Cookson said: “This shows how highly regarded British Cycling is at the highest level of the sport and I look forward to developing cycling at home and abroad.” Cookson has been involved in cycling for over 40 years, first as a competitor, then as a volunteer and administrator. JOHN CROWTHER IS NEW ASA CHAIR John Crowther has been appointed as the new chair of the Amateur Holmes named Paralympic director Swimming Association (ASA). A former chief executive and main Chris Holmes MBE has been named as the board director of the Lawn Tennis new director of Paralympic Integration. Association, as well as a member of Having had a distinguished career as the National Olympic Committee a Paralympic swimmer – winning nine at the British Olympic Association, Paralympic gold medals, six at the Bar- Crowther will also be able to draw celona Games in 1992 – Holmes will lead on his voluntary experience with on all aspects of London’s 2012 planning Sports Leaders, the England and and organisation for the Games. Wales Cricket Board, North York- Currently patron of the Help for shire Sport Board and the Central Heroes charity and the British Paralympic Council for Physical Recreation. Association, he’s been on the board of He has a strong background in UK Sport since 2005 and was a commis- both sport and commerce in his sioner on the board of the Disability consultative role at Sport Ambition. Rights Commission from 2000-07.

REDGRAVE BECOMES 2012 CHAMPION

Five-times gold medal winner Sir Steve Jason Gardener, heptathlete Denise Redgrave has been appointed as the Lewis, Paralympian Sascha Kindred government’s 2012 Sports Champion to (swimming), Gail Emms (badminton) and help drive participation in sport during Joe Glanfield (sailing). the run up to the London Olympics. L Meanwhile, Michael Williams was Commenting on the government’s recently re-elected as a member of the target to get one million adults playing executive committee and treasurer of more sport and get young people doing the International Rowing Federation. five hours of sport per week inside and He coxed the winning Cambridge crew outside school, Redgrave said: “2012 is a to victory in 1973 and has been active once in a lifetime chance to change the within the sport for over 30 years. habits of a nation.” Di Ellis CBE, chair of the Amateur Row- He will be supported in the role by ing Association said: “Mike’s appointment six other medallists, already working maintains our aim to retain postholders of as school sports ambassadors. These the highest calibre who can voice British include sprinters Darren Campbell and standards at an international level.”

12 Read Sports Management online sportsmanagement.co.uk/digital Issue 4 2009 © cybertrek 2009 THE DIFFERENCE MONITOR SAPCA UPDATE EVERYONE & EVERYTHING

Next stop Twickenham

APCA’s next Sports Facility Con- The seminar programme will include: S struction Exhibition and Seminar UÊ >̈œ˜>ÊëœÀÌÃÊv>VˆˆÌÞÊÃÌÀ>Ìi}Þ will take place at Twickenham UÊÊ Õˆ`ˆ˜}Ê-V œœÃÊvœÀÊÌ iÊÕÌÕÀiÊqÊÌ iÊ Stadium on Tuesday 24 November. importance of high quality facilities This one-day event is supported by UÊÊ iÈ}˜ˆ˜}Êë>ViÃÊvœÀÊ* Ê>˜`ÊëœÀÌʈ˜Ê>Ê Sport England and comprises a series of 21st century school informative and educational seminars UÊÊ -«œÀÌÃÊ«ÀœiVÌÊv՘`ˆ˜} accompanied by an exhibition featuring UÊÊ iÈ}˜Ê>˜`ÊVœ˜ÃÌÀÕV̈œ˜ÊœvʜÕÌ`œœÀÊ the leading constructors of sports facili- synthetic sports facilities ties, suppliers of related products and UÊÊ œœÃˆ˜}ÊÌ iÊÀˆ} ÌÊëœÀÌÃÊÃÕÀv>ViÊqÊ services, as well as professional consul- current standards tants offering expert advice on sports UÊÊ iÈ}˜]ÊVœ˜ÃÌÀÕV̈œ˜Ê>˜`ʓ>ˆ˜Ìi‡ facility projects. nance of natural turf pitches The event focuses on the provision of UÊÊ "«Ìˆœ˜ÃÊvœÀʈ˜`œœÀÊëœÀÌÃÊÃÌÀÕVÌÕÀiÃÊ Wattbike accurately monitors spaces for PE and sport within the edu- and surfaces cational sector, in particular the Building UÊÊ "ÕÌ`œœÀÊëœÀÌÃÊvœœ`ˆ} ̈˜} 29 parameters 100 times a Schools for the Future programme. UÊÊ œ˜`œ˜ÊÓä£ÓÊqÊëœÀÌÃÊv>VˆˆÌˆiÃÊÕ«`>Ìi second so there’s plenty of data to keep an eye on. And To ensure admission please register for the event in advance. To register online thanks to the Expert software visit www.sapca.org.uk or telephone SAPCA on +44 (0)24 7641 6316. that’s included free with every Wattbike, it’s the ideal NVQ Level 3 approval platform for group training. Simply connect the bikes APCA’s educational programme tor the progress and quality of work and together and to a screen and S received a welcome boost recently ensure health and safety requirements in any one of 10 parameters can with the news that the industry’s their area of responsibility. be displayed for all to see. If Level 3 National Vocational Qualification Optional technical units of the course the mood takes you, you can (NVQ) has been formally approved. include the installation and maintenance The qualification follows on from the of artificial grass surfaces for sport, poly- even race up to 14 bikes with Level 2 NVQ that was launched just one meric surfaces for sport and play, acrylic a visual display. year ago – some 80 candidates from the surfaces for sport, macadam surfaces industry have qualified already. and coatings for sport and play, natural Both NVQs are designed for site opera- grass surfaces for sport and equipment And outside of the group situation, tives, recognising and rewarding compe- for sport and play. because Wattbike doesn’t have a fixed crank it’s perfect for individual tency in key skills. The qualifications are training as well. based on workplace assessment and are delivered by the industry’s National Train- Water management research So for less than the price of some ing Centre at South Birmingham College. SAPCA’s water management research other group training solutions, why not look instead at Wattbike. Visit The Level 2 NVQ follows the installa- project with Loughborough University www.wattbike.com to find out tion of surfaces up to base construction, officially started in October. how your gym could benefit. whereas the Level 3 qualification Peter Richards has been employed focuses on the installation and mainte- by the university to undertake the nance of specific surface types and research, he has a BSc and MSc and site supervisory skills. several years’ industrial experience The mandatory management units in related fields. SAPCA will continue help delegates to manage their own to disseminate the findings of the resources and professional development, research as the project progresses. provide leadership, allocate and moni- WWW.WATTBIKE.COM

Issue 4 2009 © cybertrek 2009 08448 759 547 INTERVIEW

Michal Krejza

Karen Maxwell talks to the head of the Sport Unit at the EU about the current issues that affect European and, more specifically, UK sport

ssuming the Lisbon Treaty , Estonia, Croatia, Mace- respect those different approaches and comes into force next year, donia and Kosovo in transforming their respect the autonomy of sport organisa- Michal Krejza believes that economies and societies. tions to run their own affairs. A the Commission’s Sport Unit “At EU level, sport is a cross-sectoral When we decided to draft the White will be extending its role in represent- field touching upon aspects of many Paper we listened to everyone who ing the interests of sport stakeholders in different policy areas, such as free had a say in sport. The White Paper EU policy-making within the European movement of people, competition, created a useful and pragmatic frame- Commission. “There are several wider health, education, social integration, work for our present and future issues that affect sport in Europe and and media rights,” Krejza explains. activities. We took a commitment to specifically in the UK and the unit takes This diversity is reflected in the first implement 53 concrete actions in a its role as the ‘first point of call’ very major EU policy document on sport, the timeframe of five years and more than seriously,” he says. White Paper on Sport adopted in 2007, two-thirds of the actions have been or Currently the only head of unit in the which Krejza himself prepared. are about to be completed. Commission whose team focuses soley Krejza says that the main challenge, on sport, Krejza leads and co-ordinates White Paper on Sport following the Lisbon Treaty, will be a team of 12 dedicated people from dif- Detailed within the White Paper, Kre- to identify areas where the sport unit ferent European countries and cultures. jza’s team made it clear that the role can help sport by contributing some- “We’re the sports people who provide of the European Commission in sport thing that member states and sport the Commission with the necessary ex- was not to replace the member states, organisations could not, or not so pertise on sport issues,” he explains. nor to regulate the activity of sport easily, do on their own. A Dutch lawyer of Czech origin, Krejza organisations. “The role of the Commis- “We need to build on the diversity of was appointed head of the Commis- sion is not to support the views of one European sport to co-operate and ex- sion’s Sport Unit in 2006. Having worked sport organisation against others, nor change best practice,” he says. “This year at the European Commission through- to award to a sport organisation the we’ve offered a series of grants in order out the 1990s, he gained experience right to regulate sport without due to pilot larger future actions to finance in a wide range of EU legislation – from respect of EU law,” he explains. projects in the field of sport. We’re se- trade, internal market and competi- “Member states approach sport in lecting projects in the areas of health, tion to border management, transport, many different ways. In some countries disability, education and training, and health and education – while he assisted sport is regulated by law, in others or- gender equality and I can tell you that potential future Central and Eastern ganised sport is autonomous with little we are delighted with the number and European member states such as the or no governmental intervention. We the quality of the proposals.”

14 Read Sports Management online sportsmanagement.co.uk/digital Issue 4 2009 © cybertrek 2009 PICS: WWW.ISTOCK.COM

The sport unit attaches great importance to grassroots funding for European sport

Sporting Issues in Europe representatives of team sports fed- EU Studies Sustainable financing of sport and the erations, leagues, clubs, players and The EU is currently involved in studies protection of sport organisers’ rights – supporters with an interest in licens- on sports agents, grassroots funding, especially in relation to sports betting ing systems. “This conference was a volunteering and non-nationals in sport. – are prominent issues on the current EU good opportunity for participants to “The study on sport agents is almost agenda and the relationship between exchange views and share best practice finished and will be available by the sport and internal market rules on free in this area,” he says. “The concept of beginning of next year,” he explains. movement of labour has attracted a Financial Fair Play in football, approved “This will provide an in-depth view of great deal of recent attention. only two days before the beginning the issues raised by the activity of sport “One of the biggest successes of Eu- of the conference by UEFA’s executive agents throughout the EU, including ropean integration is the fact that EU committee, was extensively debated their economic and social importance, citizens working in member states other the applicable legal framework at than their own have the same rights Robust licensing systems national level, and the relationship be- as the citizens of that member state,” promote good governance tween the activity of sport agents and Krejza explains. “However, I find it sur- the EU regulatory framework. prising that some sport organisations in sport, as long as they “Grassroots funding for sport is an- find it hard to accept this fundamen- comply with EU competition other matter to which we attach great tal right, which functions well in every importance, considering that local struc- other socio-economic sphere and is and internal market rules tures form the basis for the whole sport greatly appreciated by EU citizens,” he system in Europe,” he says. “We see adds. “When sport organisations have at the conference. Financial discipline that economic developments impact on rules that create direct discrimination is a key element of licensing systems, the financing of sport in all the member between EU citizens based on national- both as a tool to ensure that no club states and this is all the more true in the ity, it is the Commission’s duty to take drops out of a competition for financial current economic recession, which puts action in order to safeguard the rights reasons and to promote financial fair- additional constraints on sport funding. of those citizens.” ness among clubs participating in the “Regarding financing sport, such as With regard to the topic of licensing same competition. Robust licensing developments in the field of gambling, systems for club competitions, Krejza systems are a good tool to promote we addressed some of the challenges says that the Commission organised a good governance in sport, as long as relating to this issue in our White Paper – well-attended conference in Brussels in they comply with EU competition and highlighting the need for more in-depth September this year. The event gathered internal market rules.” review on how to ensure sustainable

Issue 4 2009 © cybertrek 2009 Read Sports Management online sportsmanagement.co.uk/digital 15 INTERVIEW

The unit will build on the diversity of European sport to help exchange best practice

funding of grassroots sport in Europe. We committed to contributing to these reflections by launching an EU study. The outcomes at the end of next year should be useful perspectives to further shape the Commission’s approach in EU policy areas that affect sport finance.”

An Equal Footing The tender for a study on equal treat- volunteering, including a sector study projects specifically related to sport. In ment of non-nationals was launched on volunteering in sport. The specific the meantime, and in anticipation of in July 2009 and Krejza’s team is in the focus on sport was important because the ratification of the Lisbon Treaty, the process of evaluating several offers. there are structural differences com- Sport Unit is implementing a provisional “This study will map the situation con- pared with other sectors that we wish to funding instrument, the ‘Preparatory cerning discrimination on grounds of take into account. The study is making Action in the field of sport’. nationality relating to access to individ- good progress and I’m confident that “The main objective of the Preparato- ual sport competitions in the European the results and recommendations will ry Action is to lay the ground for future Union,” Krejza explains. help us to launch projects in the field of EU sports measures in view of the EU “My unit receives frequent complaints volunteering in sport in 2010,” he says. sport competence foreseen in the Lis- from EU citizens who live in a member bon Treaty,” Krejza explains. “The aim state other than their own and who Sustainable funding for is to provide policy support and identify cannot, for that reason, participate in future policy actions and test the estab- competitions in individual sports such sport will remain a top lishment and functioning of suitable as swimming or horse-riding. In view priority when we further networks and good practices. of the link between such competitions “We launched the first call for pro- and regional or national championship develop an EU policy posals in May this year and the selected titles, this is a tricky subject from an EU dimension in sport projects will run between December 2009 perspective. The study will hopefully put and March 2011. However, I wish to stress forward suggestions for possible solu- European Funding that a preparatory action has, by defi- tions that comply with community law Streams for Sport nition, a very modest budget. We had and provide an appropriate response to According to Krejza, until the Lisbon `4m (£3.6m) available for the first call for the problems posed by the discrimina- Treaty comes into force, obtaining proposals in health-enhancing physical tory measures identified.” financial support for projects related to activity, education and training, disability sport is still very limited at European lev- sport and gender equality in sport. How- Volunteering in Sport el. However sport-related projects can ever, the value of the submitted projects Acknowledging that volunteering sometimes be eligible under the frame- was more than 10 times higher. needs greater attention in EU poli- work of EU programmes established to “Contributing to the review of sustain- cy-making in view of the benefits for support other policies – such as able funding for sport will remain a top society in terms of cohesion, democracy regional policy, social affairs, public priority for the work of my team when and citizenship, and also because of its health, youth, education, civil society we further develop an EU policy dimen- inherent economic value, Krejza says and equal opportunities. sion in sport.” L that there’s a lack of good and compa- If the Lisbon Treaty is adopted, an To view the Sport Unit’s studies rable information on this sector at EU EU Sport Programme could be used as and projects in more detail, visit: level. “We decided to launch a study on a tool to provide financial support for http://ec.europa.eu/sport

16 Read Sports Management online sportsmanagement.co.uk/digital Issue 4 2009 © cybertrek 2009 SPORTS ANALYSIS

John Goodbody reports on Developing a nation through sport

he success of Rio de Janeiro in being selected to host the FIFA World Cup in 2014 and the Sum- T mer Olympics in 2016 may have set a template for future bids for the two biggest international sports events.

Developing countries are heartened PIC: AP/PRESS ASSOCIATION IMAGES by the decisions and will now consider, with new optimism, whether to try to stage these competitions. South Africa, still in the throes of emerging from the years of apartheid, will put on the football World Cup next year, and may think about a bid for the 2020 Summer Olympics. After all, one of Rio’s selling points for 2016 was that South America had never staged the event. Well, nor Countries are bidding for leading competitions to has Africa, and with the International Olympic Committee (IOC) committed to use those events as a way of developing a nation extending even further its global reach, this is a candidate which it would par- disabled in their country “were not emerging nations, citing the 2010 Com- ticularly welcome. treated as well as they could be,” and monwealth Games in India as another What was raised at the recent Global the Games could act as an example example. He also said that the decision Sports Industry Congress in London, was for the Russians on accessibility and to restrict the size of the Games further the belief that sports governing bodies – treatment and also on participation. helped the emerging countries, as the especially the IOC, with its specific social Volunteerism was “not something that number of competitors and officials commitment, were happy to sign up to fits naturally with the Russians” and would be well-known in advance. the desire of countries bidding for lead- that at the Games, with the thousands The IOC is keen to see that no ‘white ing competitions to use those events as of volunteers needed “this new attitude elephants’, particularly unused stadia, a way of developing a nation. would spread across the nation.” are left behind after staging the Games Jon Tibbs, whose company JTA worked Sir Craig Reedie, the British IOC mem- and also that there is a tangible legacy with Beijing to get the 2008 Summer ber who played a key role in London which renews interest in Olympic sport Olympics and Sochi to get the 2014 Win- getting the 2012 Games, points to the and offers an after-life of improved in- ter Games, believes that following the increasing social role of the IOC being frastructure and quality of life. success of Rio, more countries will want recently confirmed by it’s being award- Many cities bidding for the Games a piece of the cake and are coming out ed observer status at the United Nations. have been prepared not to hide their of the woodwork for 2020. He says from In its famous final presentation in political and social weaknesses, but his experience of working with Sochi Singapore, London emphasised the instead confront them. Tibbs says that that “the Russians viewed the Olym- importance of engaging with the youth in the run-up to the 2001 vote when pics as part of a 10-year strategy for a of the world and Rio continued this Beijing was attempting to get the 2008 new Russia. They believed that what is theme by highlighting the large number Games, it had to confront the challenges needed to put on an Olympics is so de- of young people in South America, of media and individual freedom. He re- manding that it would act as an example who could be captivated by hosting calls: ”Originally it went along with the of best practice for Russia to follow.” the Olympic Games in their region. line that sport and politics don’t mix but Two particular tenets of the Olympic Reedie, recently elected to the IOC it was persuaded that the Games would Movement are to encourage disabled Executive Board, its inner cabinet, ac- force the authorities to address them sports and support volunteerism. Tibbs cepted that there was some evidence and they would improve. The Olympics says the Russians were aware that the that more leading events were going to can and should be a force for good.”

Issue 4 2009 © cybertrek 2009 Read Sports Management online sportsmanagement.co.uk/digital 17 TALKBACK

Sports Management asks: How many 50m pools do we need?

lthough there are weekly reports and European of swimming pool closures, Championships – but how does the use of there’s been a definite increase in 50m compare to the standard 25m pools at A the development of 50m swim- community level and what about the under- ming pools in recent years. lying risks and associated affordability? This extended pool size certainly fits the We ask four industry experts whether elite training brief for the world’s major 50m pools are the best way to service both swimming events – such as the Olympic and elite as well as local needs and how many Paralympic Games, World Championships, more pools of this size are actually needed.

Swimming Facts

Throughout the UK, almost 12 million people of all ages and abilities enjoy swimming regularly, whether for fun, fitness or competition. According to Sport England’s Active People Survey 2, swimming remains the highest par- ticipation sport with a total of 3.24 million adults taking part at a ‘moderate intensity for 30 minutes or more’ at least once a week.

KEITH ASHTON CHIEF EXECUTIVE, S&P ARCHITECTS

ational strategy, facility consolida- is the exemplar. Efficiencies of scale in design, construction tion, needs analysis, demand model- and operational flexibility, linked to technical improvements N ing and political will often conflict in insulation, heating, ventilation and water treatment all help when considering the development of a to turn economic deficit into a position of being cash positive 50m pool over a 25m pool. In addition to with the replacement of the existing pool. these issues there is the underlying ques- When measuring economic and environmental sustainability tion of risk and associated affordability. and capacity for social participation, a regional flagship 50m “They’re far too expensive to run” is often pool development coupled with consolidated local community heard. True, and the rise in energy costs has not helped, how- 25m swimming provision provides an excellent and balanced ever, local authorities now need to assess development based solution. People will travel greater distances to the 50m pool on comparative whole life costs and this is where 50m pools and the flexibility of its configuration will mean that full can win the economic argument. programming of the space is achievable. The local community There is a misconception that 50m pools cost twice as much provision can be scoped appropriately to the local need. as 25m pools to run. Staffing levels are actually similar and With 2012 motivating participation; prudential borrowing at energy costs are only up by 50 per cent rather than doubled. In its lowest level; keen tender pricing in the construction market; fact excluding revenues the actual (whole life) running cost of improved availability of relevant expertise from operators, archi- a 50m pool with associated development over a 30-year period tects, the ASA and SportEngland and a need to consolidate swim- is circa £10m, a 25m pool would be £7.5m. The difference in ming provision and offer economic efficiencies across leisure revenues would more than cover this difference. With more provision, there’s never been a better time to invest in a consoli- than one million visits a year, Crawley’s 50m pool facility, K2, dated swimming pool strategy with a 50m pool at its heart.

18 Read Sports Management online sportsmanagement.co.uk/digital Issue 4 2009 © cybertrek 2009 PICTURE: TOPLIS DESIGNS

European Country Population 50m Pools comparison France 59.3m 90 of 50m pools Germany 83.3m 92 Holland 15.8m 13 Sweden 9.0m 15 UK 59.5m 25

CHARLES JOHNSTON DIRECTOR OF PROPERTY, SPORT ENGLAND

s the country’s most popular partici- floors to allow the pool to be split in two, giving flexibility pation sport, swimming plays a big for both community and elite use. Some 50 local authorities A role in the nation’s sporting life. have already taken advantage of this service in developing Sport England works closely with local robust local sport strategies, including Birmingham, Bristol councils and other public sector agencies and Plymouth councils – all of which now have 50m pools to help them strategically plan how to best progressing through planning. Sport England is also investing meet the swimming needs of their communi- £40m in the two Olympic pools to secure a lasting legacy. ties. A key part of this support is our Facili- I believe that the picture of 50m pools in England is an im- ties Improvement Service, which uses our Active Places database proving one. Swimming in this country has a promising future; and Active People Survey to help councils understand local sport- the government’s free swimming scheme is in full swing and the ing demand, map current provision and plan for the future. ASA, with our backing, is driving improvements in the sport. I In some cases, a 50m pool may be the best way to serve believe the sport is well placed to get even more people swim- local needs, but we always recommend moveable booms and ming regularly in a world-leading community sport system.

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20 Read Sports Management online sportsmanagement.co.uk/digital Issue 4 2009 © cybertrek 2009 TALKBACK

DAVID SPARKES CHIEF EXECUTIVE, AMATEUR SWIMMING ASSOCIATION (ASA)

e need 50m pools not just because If we want to see more Rebecca Adlingtons we should be they are a great option for com- looking to build more 50m pools. Athletes enjoy competing and W petition or training but because, training in these pools and it puts them on a level footing with thanks to moving floors and booms, they their competitors on the international circuit. The real winner are a cost effective solution to water provi- however, is the community. sion in some communities. Pool providers are often reticent to invest in the develop- A flexible 50m pool can drive up partici- ment of new 50m pools. They think they are for elite swimmers pation and can be the right solution with and unsuited to the needs of the community, but the design lower capital and revenue costs than a series of local 25m pools. of public 50m pools in this country has always been based This country has many examples of where modern 50m upon meeting the needs of the community, from learn to swim pools serve their communities well. The facilities at Stockport, through to recreational swimming for all ages and abilities. Manchester and Cardiff offer three excellent examples There is no doubt 50m pools are a realistic option for some of well-managed 50m pools that have driven up community communities and the ASA has stated in our strategy that we swimming in an effective way. want to see a minimum of 33 50m pools in England by 2013.

TERRY DENISON CHAIR, BRITISH SWIM COACHES’ AND TEACHERS’ ASSOCIATION (BSCTA)

here’s no doubt that the growth of regular training and provide the best opportunities for the tal- 50m pools in Britain over the past ented ones. However, the value of the 50m pool doesn’t just lie T few years has contributed to the suc- in the realm of competitive swimming. Fifty metre pools with cess of our swimmers at world level. two booms can provide greater flexibility by allowing three In the 2000 Sydney Olympic Games, different swim activities to take place in the same building at when we had eight 50m pools available the same time. Different user groups can then be catered for for training purposes, we were not on the without impeding on one another or lessening the quality of medal table. In 2008, with 20-plus 50m experience of each group. pools available, we gained six Olympic medals, which contrib- Thanks to the help of lottery funding and the foresight uted to Great Britain being placed third in the overall medal of local councils, the UK’s stock of 50m pools has risen in table at the 2008 Beijing Olympic Games. recent years but we are still a long way behind our major In order to help our young swimmers realise their full poten- competitors and there are many areas of our country where tial on the world stage, we need to make community access to access to a 50m pool requires long journey times. There is 50m pools increasingly available. As the sport achieves more clearly a need to continue with the present process of recognition from international success it will inspire more growth and to encourage every city in Britain to make a young people to emulate their heroes, encourage them into 50m pool facility available to its citizens.

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WING O TH R E

G GRASSROOTS Since its recent restructure, the British Fencing Association has created a sustainable pathway for participants of all ages and abilities to enter the sport and stay with it

FENCING lthough fencing is among ways and in 1902 the AFA held its first International Olympic Committee stuck the oldest recorded sports general meeting with Captain Hutton to just 10 sets of fencing medals, which and steeped in history and elected president. means that two events are omitted at A tradition, it is also one of the Lord Desborough, the first president each Games in rotation. The BFA contin- most modern and technically innova- of the British Olympic Association and ues to campaign for the full 12 events tive, with a wide participation age range. organiser of the 1908 London Olympic to be reinstated. Currently, the oldest active member of Games, was another early AFA president the British Fencing Association (BFA) is and fenced in the 1906 Interim Olym- Restructure 92 and still fences once a week. At the pics. Other well-known fencers include The last few years have seen root and other end of the age scale, a child can Winston Churchill, who was a schoolboy branch changes in the organisation, pre- start fencing as soon as the coach thinks champion and competed at the Royal sentation and accessibility of the sport he or she can cope – which is often as Tournament and Bruce Dickinson – an – both domestically and internationally. young as six years old. airline pilot and lead singer of heavy Children now have the option to learn metal group Iron Maiden. with a realistic foam and plastic kit when History An official sport at every Olympic they first take up the sport, while elite The BFA, or the Amateur Fencing Asso- Games since 1896, fencing is a sport ciation (AFA) as it was known 100 years where agility and stamina are more im- ago, started life as a sub-committee of portant than sheer strength and allows the Amateur Gymnastics Association. men and women to compete in all three The first fencing championships at foil disciplines. Competitions are organised and sabre took place in 1898 and epée at all levels in both team and individual was added later. In 1900 the fencers and events. However, when women’s sabre gymnasts decided to go their separate was added to the Olympic schedule the

The development strategy extends beyond 2020, using London 2012 as a springboard rather than an end in itself

22 Read Sports Management online sportsmanagement.co.uk/digital Issue 4 2009 © cybertrek 2009 Left and bottom left: Two sabre fencers at this year’s National Championships held at the English Institute of Sport in Sheffield

Right: Ed Jeffries (left) compet- ing at the 2008 Eden Cup

Below: A taster session at the National Championships PHOTO: GRAHAMPHOTO: MORRISON

CASE STUDY: Samworth Church Academy, Mansfield

In one academic year (2008/09) and with help from the BFA and England Fenc- ing, the newly-established Samworth Church Academy in Mansfield has found fencing to be a popular addition to its activities. The school made a substantial investment in equipment and employs a coach one day a week to offer fencing programmes for pupils in years 10 and 11 (as a GCSE PE module). School staff and sixth form pupils can also get involved and local primary schools send classes to the academy to participate in five or six week mini- courses each half of a term. A lunchtime club for year seven pupils has been added, as well as an after school club which is open to all age groups. Samworth has also found success when competing in school mini-fence tournaments and intra school competitions. Simon Fletcher, who counts head of sport among his school responsibilities, is upbeat and enthusiastic: “Given our catchment area, our students would never have had exposure to fencing. The sport’s presence in our school is now part of an important strategy to make a difference both in the school and in the wider community.” On the back of this, Fletcher hopes to provide something new in Mansfield; he wants to start a fencing community club for pupils and parents.

fencing presents a television-friendly the overall development strategy to- that a regional school-based event can spectacle with video-assisted refereeing, wards 2020 and beyond – recognising take place in just two hours. precise timetables for bouts and superb the London Olympics as a springboard The enthusiasm generated at key stag- event presentation. rather than an end in itself. es one and two in primary education can After his election to BFA president in be built upon at secondary key stage 2000, Keith Smith has overhauled the Sustainable Pathway for Kids three with the introduction of standard infrastructure of the national governing With the 2012 London Olympic Games metal equipment, at which point either body (NGB) by creating a manage- in sight, the five-hour weekly activity local clubs or coaches provide the kit, or ment group that is answerable to the target in English state education (two the schools or local authority fund the BFA board. During this restructure, the curriculum hours matched by three purchase. One such example is Fence responsibilities of the BFA and the four hours out of school), has meant that the Cornwall – a project started by a small home countries were also clearly defined School Sports Partnerships (SSP) have group of enthusiasts who took taster and delineated. needed the co-operation of a wide programmes to the county secondary The retirement of the BFA general sec- range of sporting bodies and fencing is schools. This project resulted in thriv- retary, Gillian Kenneally, 15 months ago well suited to this initiative. ing after-school clubs across the county, provided an opportunity to change the The sport has developed a sustainable together with a significant increase in management emphasis and Piers Mar- pathway strategy using the mini-fencing participation among all age groups. tin was appointed to the newly-created foam or plastic swords and masks as a Historically, schools have been an post of chief executive officer. The ap- simple low-cost introduction for primary important introductory vehicle for the pointment of Ben Campion as national school participants aged seven and eight. sport and high performers have been development manager in July this year In collaboration with the Youth Sports catered for by age-group champion- has completed the NGB’s reorganisation. Trust, the BFA and England Fencing has ships with categories for the under-12s, While the elite group of fencers on produced a national framework and 14s, 16s and 18s with entry to the finals the 2012 Olympic Pathway programme plan for school competition. through regional competitions. These are overseen by Graham Watts, the BFA Following work with competition and are the British Youth Championships and performance director, Piers Martin has development managers, fencing compe- run parallel to the cadet (under 17s) and addressed the essential task of designing tition formats have now been trialed so junior (under 20s) events.

Issue 4 2009 © cybertrek 2009 Read Sports Management online sportsmanagement.co.uk/digital 23 GRASSROOTS

The challenge is to convert spectators and casual participants into regular fencers, club members and volunteers PHOTO: GRAHAM MORRISON PHOTO: GRAHAM

A taster session with Scheme or the World Class Performance foam/plastic swords can Programme – both of which are fully encourage kids to work structured and managed to produce in- up towards elite level ternational, world and Olympic success. BFA’s stated aim is to win one medal at In recent years, the BFA has become rectify this; it uses a range of measures, the London 2012 Olympics. more focused on schools development. including athletic, technical, psycho- In Nottinghamshire for example, the BFA logical and competitiveness to assess Promoting the Sport and England Fencing have projects with potential and assist development. In order to promote the sport to the five of the nine SSPs. Typically, a fencing As well as identifying athletes, the general public, a structured approach is coach provides instruction for primary model is also designed to help club currently being proposed. This is based school children for either a half or full coaches, parents and volunteers – all on evidence, market information and term up to a full academic year. of whom can access in training and targeted advertising, which is especially These programmes feed into commu- education – giving the athlete the best important for the public perception and nity clubs, which in turn have links with possible environment to succeed. image of the sport. established fencing clubs. This provides As well as the well-trodden media direct routes for children entering the Competition routes, partnerships with leisure opera- sport, participating at club level, com- So how can keen, young fencers move up tors and holiday operators also offer peting at one of the major competition the ladder towards international success? opportunities. Fencing demonstrations circuits, or even entering sports adminis- Last month saw Britain’s leading annual in public areas – such as the Science Mu- tration. Similar schemes exist in Berkshire, junior event, the Eden Cup foil inter- seum, supporting their Technology in Birmingham and County Durham. national take place at Whitgift School, Sport exhibition and at the Victoria and The BFA and England Fencing are also Croydon. The event, which was founded Albert Museum supporting a Regency currently developing an academy struc- by South London businessman Joe Eden evening – has shown fencing to be popu- ture, which is due to be piloted in 2010. in the 1960s, is the UK round of the Junior lar with spectators when well presented. The aim of this project is to develop and World Cup and counts toward interna- The challenge is to convert spectators support young fencers who have the po- tional ranking points. Earlier this year, and casual participants into regular fenc- tential to become successful adult fencers. Belfast hosted the World Junior Champi- ers, club members and volunteers. Today, Great Britain has genuine onships, which saw Britain’s Ed Jefferies Winning a medal at the London Olym- hopes of Olympic gold in 2012; such as win silver. Then there’s the UK School pics would bring a boost in participation, Londoner Richard Kruse who is currently Games, in which fencing is an integral but popularity could wain as the medal World No.2 in senior rankings. However, sport within the national programme. memory fades. Winning members in the the pool of talent is limited – meaning a At this level, fencers usually aspire longer term is the challenge to which heavy reliance on a few individuals. The to enter one of the elite programmes, the BFA’s new modernised structures academy model has been designed to be it the Talented Athlete Scholarship and management is squaring up. L

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Issue 4 2009 © cybertrek 2009 Read Sports Management online sportsmanagement.co.uk/digital 25 NATURAL TURF

The Design and Construction of Natural Sportsturf

We talk to the chair of SAPCA’s Natural Sportsturf Division, Billy Martin, about issues related to the specification, construction and maintenance of sportsturf

Why is it important to seek proper advice before What are the necessary considerations before deciding to construct a natural sportsturf facility? employing a company to build or upgrade a facility?

It’s essential to speak with someone who fully understands the A conscientious contractor will thoroughly talk through what processes involved. I would suggest taking professional advice the client will get for their money, together with the wear and from a recognised sportsturf consultant to provide the neces- tear the surface can be expected to cope with and any implica- sary guidance throughout the whole process. Just speaking to tions this will have on the required maintenance and its costs. a variety of contractors could be confusing, as each one may But beware, in some instances where non-specialist con- offer a different solution to the same problem, with conse- sultants or contractors have been involved, clients have been quent variations in specification and cost. delivered facilities that are either under- or over-specified in relation to the quality of surface they need or are capable What does the specification process entail? of maintaining. If the client does not have the resources or expertise to undertake the necessary maintenance the sports There are many pre-contract procedures that need investiga- turf system could fail. tion before a specification can be drawn up. Site investigation, which includes topography, investigative dig, survey of How do turf considerations relate to different climatic levels pre- and post-construction and soil analysis; planning conditions around the country? permissions; quantifying scope of works; liaising with the client to ascertain their requirements; understanding and It’s all a question of balance. For instance, it could be argued drawing up specifications; Bills of Quantities; overseeing and that if you allow for drainage, you should also allow for irriga- monitoring construction quality; managing the project tion. A well-drained sports field will dry out very quickly in the finance; evaluating tenders; certifying and carrying out summer if there is a lack of rain or irrigation, which can lead to valuations and ensuring post-tender maintenance is carried the aggregate in the drainage trenches collapsing. This then out correctly – to name a few. leads to an uneven and potentially dangerous surface. Suitable independent specialists with extensive experience Poorly specified pitches can also fail in the wetter parts of and knowledge of natural turf can be found within the mem- the country. Pitches that are drained into heavy soils can suffer bership of SAPCA’s Professional Services Division. from worm casts, which smear over the drain lines – leading

26 Read Sports Management online sportsmanagement.co.uk/digital Issue 4 2009 © cybertrek 2009 Without the resources or expertise to undertake the necessary maintenance the sports turf system could fail

to a rapid decrease in porosity and wetter soils will often lead A site investigation is to greater worm activity. Sand slits (which are only are 50mm an essential starting point wide) can also quickly cap grass growth by producing organ- in a design proposal ic litter, which inhibits drainage. Worm casts, muddy boots, heavy machinery and soil carried in suspension can all acceler- ate the failure of these narrow trenches. What are the issues facing the industry at the moment? Can one specification of sports turf fit all climates? I believe that sustainability, affordability and being environ- Every site has its own peculiarities, so a site investigation is mentally friendly are big issues within our industry. To address an essential starting point in a design proposal. However, a some of these, SAPCA has started a three-year joint research design for a field in a wet climate can be similar to that for project with Loughborough University that will study the at- a site in a drier area of the country; it’s often the aftercare tenuation and management of water in natural sportsturf. in these areas that will be different. I believe that collectively we suffer from a lack of joined Drainage without the provision for irrigation in drier up thinking. We need to resolve these problems by sitting climes is a potential recipe for disaster. Although water is a around a table with sports governing bodies, funding scarce and expensive resource, a simple irrigation system agencies, sports councils, consultants, contractors, groundsmen can ensure that the drainage system does not break down and end users. The development of the SAPCA Code of through the lack of moisture. Practice is an excellent example of the benefits of this In the wetter parts of the country, adding sand to the topsoil approach, which we should continue. during construction can be beneficial, not only for improv- ing the soil structure but also to dilute the fine content of the Are there any construction standards worm casts. Topsoil ameliorated with sand during construction currently available for natural sports turf? can create a perched water table effect, which will retain moisture in the drier summer months. SAPCA has been at the forefront of driving up standards in relation to natural sportsturf construction. Over the past two How can I ensure that the construction specification years the association has collected technical information and will meet my usage requirements as well as my canvassed opinion throughout the industry and related sectors, budget for maintenance? including discussions with the key organisations, to produce the Code of Practice for the Design, Construction and Improve- A good consultant will liaise closely with the client and draw ment of Natural Sports Turf. The Code is currently under final up a design based on the specific needs and budget. review and will be published by the end of this year. A vital question to ask is: “Will my current maintenance practice be sufficient for the new build?” If the maintenance Billy Martin is chair of the Natural Sportsturf Division of costs of a new surface are beyond the client’s means then SAPCA and a director of Kestrel Contractors. the system could fail. For further reading and advice go to: www.sapca.org.uk

Issue 4 2009 © cybertrek 2009 Read Sports Management online sportsmanagement.co.uk/digital 27 NEW OPENING

CARDIFF CITY STADIUM Terry Stevens looks at how Cardiff’s sporting landscape impacts on the city’s economic vibrancy and looks specifically at its new football stadium

n the new millennium, sport, com- Since 2005, however, and Cardiff’s add to and compliment the existing wa- bined with culture and health, centenary celebrations as a city and ter sports mix available. Presently under have become central to the new golden jubilee as the capital of Wales, construction for opening in March 2010, I vision for Cardiff – forming the the vision of a ‘sports city’ has been it will be the first of its type in the UK of pillars for both economic and social in- delivered with a new energy through forced water design by Hydrostadium frastructure – the foundations of which strategic partnerships with both private of France which previously designed the have been set down in a strategy for and public sectors alike. Olympic courses in Sydney and Athens. sport as an economic and social driver Cardiff Council, working with water 2008 saw the opening of the long over the past 10 years. sports governing bodies and the Welsh awaited replacement for the old, worn Assembly Government (WAG), has de- out Empire Pool, demolished in 1998 to The Cardiff Story So Far livered major event experiences within make way for the . The completion of the Millennium Stadi- , with National and European The new 50m x 25m International Pool, um for the and, in sailing regattas, round the world yacht together with the 25m warm-up pool the same year, the National Indoor Athlet- races, Formula 1, 2, 3 and 4 Powerboat and leisure facilities, opened at the ISV ics Centre at University of Wales Institute Grand Prix racing, European and Inter- and is operated by Parkwood Leisure on Cardiff (UWIC) were followed by disap- national Rowing events, water , behalf of the partnership. pointment with the non-delivery of the flatwater and slalom canoeing, as well The first year saw 18 clubs swim every International Sports Village (ISV) – arising as many community and water-based week at the pool, with 733,000 paying through the sell-off of Philips Internation- tuition courses and events. customer visits and projected figures al Projects and then the stop-start process In addition, the new Olympic-stan- for the current year in the high 800,000. of Westminster and the cancellation of its dard competition canoe course and More than 40,000 people also attend Regional Casino strategy. white water rafting centre at ISV will health and fitness classes each year.

28 Read Sports Management online sportsmanagement.co.uk/digital Issue 4 2009 © cybertrek 2009 Working with its partners, Cardiff has delivered a one stop shop for sport – combining facilities for international events, accommodation and a university teaching hospital

The International Pool was followed cricketing success and the event as Cardiff City Football Stadium in May 2008 with the opening of the creating a legacy for the future. complements the ISV canoe course, new SWALEC Stadium at Glamorgan Part of this legacy includes the swimming pool and the SWALEC County Cricket Club (GCCC) built on tremendous partnership work being the site of the existing carried out by the club and council healthy living and community facili- ground, adjacent to the Welsh Institute in both local schools and communities ties, successfully delivering the major for Sport. This facility was the vision of to support healthy living, team elements of the UK School Games last Paul Russell, chair of GCCC who entered building and the physical and social month. The European Conference for into a partnership with the council and infrastructure of the city. Sport Management is being held in WAG to deliver the stadium for the pre- Early 2009 saw the opening of the Cardiff this autumn. mier tournament of Test Match Cricket International Athletics Stadium at Leck- Working with its partners, Cardiff has with in 2009. with to the west of the city. Delivered delivered a ‘one stop shop for sport’, Located in the city centre, this facility as part of the foundation works for combining facilities for international has held several one day internationals the new Cardiff City Football Club events and games with disability sport, and the first Ashes Test match in June Stadium, it replaced the old safe and secure accommodation with a of this year. After much negative Athletics Stadium. university teaching hospital, with world media before the Ashes Test match, class sporting universities offering tech- it was widely heralded as a triumph by One-stop Sports Shop nical and support services such as sports the media, with the press during and Cardiff became the UK’s European City conditioning and nutrition. after the First Test, proclaiming both the of Sport 2009, combining both the This multi-agency support of profes- ground and Cardiff as an international centres of sporting excellence with the sionals, academics, health and social

Issue 4 2009 © cybertrek 2009 Read Sports Management online sportsmanagement.co.uk/digital 29 NEW OPENING

practitioners, local and central govern- Thomas, in moving Cardiff’s regional CCFC football stadium will host this ment is part of the agenda to develop rugby team from the old Arms Park to month’s Wales v Scotland International and promote sport and active lifestyles the new Cardiff City Football Stadium. in the city. It includes not only the sports This new 26,850-seat stadium is the Land clearance started in February mentioned above, but many more, such base for both professional soccer and 2007 and the structure was completed as baseball, gymnastics, weightlifting rugby clubs and also the hub for commu- in autumn 2008 with the two clubs, Car- and such innovative schemes as People nity engagement with rugby and soccer diff City AFC and rugby Versus Handicap – using international in Cardiff’s schools and communities. as their tenants. On 13 September 2009 athletes and teams as an example for Cardiff City Football Club’s old stadium, the stadium hosted its record crowd of children to aspire to and for community , had rapidly become irrel- 25,630 for the Cardiff City v Newcastle involvement and participation. evant to the needs of an aspirational United Championship match and in No- Cardiff is currently working with Matt soccer club and an ambitious city. vember it will host the Wales v Scotland Burge, chair and owner of the Cardiff Officially opened by the Wales First International. Devils team, to deliver a new Minister, Rhodri Morgan and council fit-for-purpose permanent ice arena leader, Rodney Berman on 22 July 2009, An Economic Force for European ice hockey and with Orion the new £56m, stadium was built on In April 2002, as part of the planning Land and Leisure on new snow facilities the site of the former Cardiff Athlet- process and case making for the new and waterfront, all of which should ics Stadium and now forms part of the stadium, a comprehensive economic start on site next year. larger £100m, 60 acre (240,000sq m) impact assessment was undertaken The year 2010 offers huge opportuni- Leckwith development that includes by Stevens and Associates. The study ties for Cardiff in supporting the Ryder 470,000sq ft of retail development in- benchmarked research undertaken elsewhere in the UK; upon surveys of The new 26,850-seat stadium is the base for professional spending patterns by football fans un- dertaken by the and the soccer and rugby clubs and also the hub for community Sir Norman Chester Centre for Football engagement in Cardiff’s schools and communities Research, as well as Deloitte’s Annual Survey of Football Finance. Cup taking place at Celtic Manor and volving 13 retailers, new housing on In addition, the study was able to in using the world class sports facilities the site of the Ninian Park ground and draw on Cardiff’s recent hosting of the for international events. a new road system. FA Cup and League play-off games that Instrumental in delivering this agenda The initiative for a partnership ap- had relocated to the Millennium Stadi- over the last five years have been the proach to developing the stadium came um during the re-build of Wembley. council leader, Rodney Berman, and when the council agreed with the foot- The hosting of the FA Cup Finals in the executive member for sport and ball club a way forward for planning Cardiff, for example, generated £4.2m culture, Nigel Howells, supported by and business development. This resulted in visitor spend for the local economy a dedicated and focused team of offi- in planning approval by the council in while the contribution of the then Char- cers and strategic partners. August 2003 and Welsh Assembly govern- ity Shield games was £3.6m. ment support in September of that year. The economic impact assessment, Cardiff Football Stadium Three years later, Laing O’Rourke while examining the potential if Cardiff July 2009 saw the vision of Cardiff City won the contract to build the stadium were promoted to the Premier League, Football Club the business acumen of with Arup Sport and Holder Mathias based its case upon a successful Cham- its chair, Peter Ridsdale and the com- as the architectural team and PMG pionship side. On this basis the findings mon sense of Cardiff Blues chair, Peter Developments as the developer. estimated that the new stadium would

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Issue 4 2009 © cybertrek 2009 Read Sports Management online sportsmanagement.co.uk/digital 31 NEW OPENING

The new stadium provides a shared facility for both rugby and football

generated around £24m per annum, of five new Welsh regional sides. stadium and our new training facilities of which £14.5m would be retained in Directed by David Young, the Blues are up there with anything that anyone the local economy which, through the played their first game at the Car- in Europe can offer.” multiplier effect, would generate an diff City Stadium in August when they Blues skipper Paul Tito believes the additional £5.5m of indirect spending. entertained Leicester Tigers in a pre- move to the new Cardiff City Stadium In addition the stadium would support season friendly. It is the start of a new could be the making of the Blues. The 250 to 300 jobs. era for the region following their move Kiwi second row went through a similar from the Arms Park and Young feels it switch during his time with Wellington, A Rugby Perspective could also allow them to give free rein who left Athletic Park behind to call the The new stadium, like an increas- to their attacking instincts. new Westpac Stadium home. ing number of new stadia these days, “We’ve always tried to play a high- That move provoked a lot of criticism provides a shared facility for the city’s tempo, ball-in-hand type of game, but at the time, and discontent has been soccer and rugby union teams. Cardiff sometimes at the Arms Park it was quite voiced in a similar fashion in some quar- Blues was launched in June 2003 as one difficult to get that surface as hard and ters over the Blues’ move away from fast as we would like due to it being the Arms Park. But Tito says Wellington on a riverbed,” he said. benefited hugely from switching “I feel there will be some better op- to the 36,000-capacity Westpac, which portunities to play some higher tempo has acquired the nickname of The Cake rugby at our new home. It’s a great Tin. He believes the Blues can reap venue with a great surface. The stadium similar rewards from moving to the has been talked about for a long time, Cardiff City Stadium. from design to building – so long in fact “I’ve seen it first-hand and it does that we all started to wonder if it was work,” he said. “I was fortunate enough ever going to happen. Even the biggest to play in Wellington when we had the critics and biggest doubters about the new stadium there. There was a lot of move only have to come to have a negative press about leaving Athletic look to be impressed. Park and going to the Westpac. “From a playing point of view, there “But Wellington RU were in dire are fantastic medical facilities and straits before they left Athletic Park changing rooms and an excellent sur- and now they are one of the richest face to play open rugby. It’s a superb unions in New Zealand. The new sta- arena and the players and coaches are dium really sorted them out. They had a very excited about playing our first lot of season ticket holders and every- game here. If we want to be measured one got right behind Wellington rugby. against the best, we have to be in a I think it was the making of the club. position where we can stand up on all They’re now one of the leading pro- fronts against the best and I think this vincial teams in New Zealand. So it can make a difference.” L The Athletics Stadium was delivered as Dr Terry Stevens is MD of Stevens & Asso- foundation works for the football club ciates leisure and tourism consultants

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Issue 4 2009 © cybertrek 2009 Read Sports Management online sportsmanagement.co.uk/digital 33 TENNIS & SPORTS FENCING

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JUDY MURRAY

Phil Sandilands speaks to Andy Murray’s mother about driving Scottish tennis forward from a community-based facility

espite the millions of pounds Judy Murray believes she knows where for a few months of the year due to the pumped into the sport each it’s going wrong and thinks she has the weather. There is no doubt the lack of year, British tennis continues answer. She knows she has achieved her regular playing and competitive oppor- D to struggle to develop world- goal in supporting her sons, Andy and tunities restrict the attractiveness and class players. Recent relegation to the Jamie, as far as she can to reach their growth of tennis in Scotland,” she says. third tier of the Davis Cup served to tennis potential. With all this experience Her vision is to establish a family- further highlight the lack of top ten- under her belt, she is now turning her orientated tennis club that is accessible nis talent in Britain. With only one attention to her homeland to help drive to the local community but will act as player in the Men’s Top 100 (Andy Mur- forward Scottish tennis. a hub for tennis in the area. “Over the ray – World Ranking 3) and three in the years, I have gained huge experience Women’s (Anne Keothavang (72), Elena Access for All when travelling abroad that tells me the Baltacha (93) and Katie O’Brien (98) – all Her ambition is to build and run a com- successful places for producing young- hopes are pinned on the juniors coming munity tennis club and plans are already sters are clubs where there is a sense of through the ranks. well under way. “This is a huge belonging and where the whole fam- opportunity to grow the game ily comes to play. It’s important too for in Scotland,” Murray explains. kids to be able to play against adults,” “There are only five indoor cen- she explains. “Nowadays, we’ve got tres offering 28 indoor courts into a culture where the better children that are open to the public in practise and play at an indoor centre Scotland and they are expen- with people their own age. That’s fine sive – up to £20 an hour at in terms of learning how to hit the ball, peak times. With the excep- but it doesn’t teach you how to play the tion of Aberdeen, which has game and this has an impact on produc- four indoor courts, these are ing match winners. all situated within the central “Tennis clubs provide the means belt, so there are huge parts whereby the right development culture of the country where ten- can be created, support from local busi- nis can only really be played nesses can be achieved and a sense of loyalty and volunteering can be de- Left: Judy Murray and Phil veloped. But my vision isn’t just about Sandilands look over plans developing young talent. It’s important

Issue 4 2009 © cybertrek 2009 Read Sports Management online sportsmanagement.co.uk/digital 35 PROFILE

We need to ensure that the initial experience of tennis is of a high enough standard for people to want to be part of the sport and the tennis club network

for tennis clubs to be at the heart of a structure, particularly for children and collaborative framework, driving the juniors. It’s only then that a strong ten- sport forward but working closely with nis club network can be developed in local authorities, schools and other Scotland,” she says. tennis providers, to grow the sport by maximising efforts and resources.” Working Model Murray’s concept is for a modern, Believing that a stand-alone academy welcoming tennis club for the local would not survive in Scotland, Murray community with an integrated tennis says she’s found a good working model academy that aims to establish an in- of her aspirations in Belgium. “The place ternational reputation for developing that interested me most in terms of con- world-class players over time. cept was Justine Henin’s club in Brussels. Such an academy could preclude the It has 500 children in its programme need for future tennis champions to and the coaches go out to support other train abroad, as Andy did. Murray be- clubs and schools. Henin’s has the look lieves that the window for developing of a house and a friendly, family atmo- co-ordination in young players is be- sphere and there is a good core club tween the ages of eight and 12, so the programme for kids, adults, team and right talent identification system, coach- social events as well as the high perfor- es, facilities and regular competition at a mance element within the club. This is local level is essential. exactly how it should work,” she says. “Being a member of a club, kids have When it comes to what facilities a sense of belonging,” she says. “They her club should offer, she has specific have club teams to aim for and be part requirements: “Indoor courts are es- of and they have a huge pool of sparring sential for all-year-round play and a partners, young and old.” combination of indoor and outdoor However, Murray is aware that devel- clay and acrylic courts are needed to oping young talent is only one facet of a deliver a comprehensive competitive successful tennis club. “We need to en- and tournament programme. Mini ten- sure that the initial experience of tennis nis courts and a small multi-use games is of a high enough standard for people area complement the tennis areas. A to want to be part of the sport and ten- gym, aerobics studio, dining and social nis clubs. This means modernising the facilities, seminar rooms and junior study club business and facilities, promotion facilities are also included in the plans. within the community, having the right Other activities to support tennis may Justine Henin’s club in Brussels has a coaches and competitive opportuni- also be needed – depending upon the family-friendly sport environment ties and adopting an appropriate fee final site selected.”

36 Read Sports Management online sportsmanagement.co.uk/digital Issue 4 2009 © cybertrek 2009 stunning surfaces made child’s play

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Issue 4 2009 © cybertrek 2009 Read Sports Management online sportsmanagement.co.uk/digital 37 PROFILE

The club should be accessible, affordable and self-support- ing – bringing enjoyment to kids, pride to adults and producing exceptional talent

Site Specific There has been much speculation about the location of the club, with various towns and cities claiming to have se- cured it. However, Murray is quick to point out that no decisions have been made as to the location, although she does have a preference: “Ideally it will be near to my home in Dunblane. Within the Stirling catchment would be ideal as I know the area well but the club has to be viable and so to ensure all options are identified I have recently advertised for sites and potential development partners within the Scottish central belt. There have been more than 80 positive responses to the concept, within Stirling and further afield and I am currently reviewing all the data,” she explains. This could be a lengthy process, but Murray’s keen to get the project mov- ing forward as quickly as possible. “If I want to have the club opened during get behind it too. Alongside this, I have Given Murray’s undeniable focus and 2012, there is urgency in selecting a site also had a great deal of support for the commitment to make things happen, and development partner, but as both concept from individuals and compa- this may not be a one-off project. In- are critical to success I will take time to nies who are keen to invest in tennis. In deed, she believes her approach could ensure I get it right,” she says. summary, I’m hoping that substantial be replicated in other cities and towns of funding can come from grants and from a certain size and could be rolled-out if Financial Support benefactors so we can minimise any bor- the initial project proves successful. “I’m Then there’s the question of funding. To rowing required to build it.” not trying to build a club that makes realise Murray’s vision will cost several Murray’s two sons, Andy and Jamie, a fortune for me,” she says. “I want a million pounds, so where will the money are strong supporters of this initiative: club that is accessible, affordable and come from? “Obviously I’m hopeful “They have discussed the concept with self-supporting and brings enjoyment to the LTA will provide financial support,” me and believe that the type of club I kids, pride to adults and maybe produc- Murray explains. “Roger Draper – chief propose would have been very benefi- es some exceptional talent as a result of executive of the LTA – has been incred- cial in their earlier years of development. the culture created within it.” L ibly helpful in getting the project to its They are obviously keen to help promote Phil Sandilands is director of specialist current position and I am very optimistic the club and I’m sure they’ll be popping sports consultancy TrioPlus and is work- that the Scottish funding agencies will in from time to time when it opens.” ing with Judy Murray on this project

38 Read Sports Management online sportsmanagement.co.uk/digital Issue 4 2009 © cybertrek 2009        

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40 Read Sports Management online sportsmanagement.co.uk/digital Issue 4 2009 © cybertrek 2009 NON-TRADITIONAL STRUCTURES OLYMPIC OVERLAY Crispin Andrews looks at how existing venues will be converted to host the London Olympics

espite the superb sporting after the 1988 Games and Sydney rea- of competitors and their support staff, spectacle and the fabulous feel lised a AUD$300m (£166m) profit after the world’s media, heads of state and good factor it provides, in the the 2000 Games. other VIPs from around the globe – not D long run, whether an Olym- With 2012 firmly in its sights, London to mention thousands of enthusiastic sup- pic Games turns out to be a blessing or already possesses a host of high-quality porters who will be pouring through the a millstone for its host country tends to sporting facilities and many other areas turnstiles – also need to be met. All of rest on financial considerations. that organisers hope will, for a short this must be done in a way that doesn’t After the 1976 Olympics in Montreal, time, become extremely atmospheric bring the capital to a grinding halt and al- the city faced debts for 30 years. Taking Olympic venues. Making existing stadia lows each venue to continue to carry out over construction when it became evi- such as Lord’s Cricket Ground, Wimble- its day job without too much disruption dent in 1975 that work had fallen don and Earl’s Court, as well as iconic when the Games are over. far behind schedule; the Quebec pro- sites such as Greenwich Park, Horse Utilising temporary venues outside the vincial government mandated the city Guards Parade and the Royal Artillery Olympic Park will also be crucial to en- to foot the billion dollar bill in full. The Barracks fit for purpose, holds the key to sure the sustainability of the new build C$1.61bn (£950m) costs of the Olym- a successful and financially viable Olym- venues post 2012. pic Stadium or ‘big owe’ as it became pic spectacle in three years’ time. “This is not just a Wimbledon fort- known, were not met until 2006. Even night or a one-day FA Cup Final, what then, the stadium didn’t actually get Temporary Venues is in essence the world championships an effective retractable roof and the There’s more to overlaying temporary of 26 sports will be taking place all over tower wasn’t completed, until after structures at these venues than install- the city simultaneously in 34 venues,” the Olympics had finished. ing a few thousand seats and lining up a says James Bulley director of venues and Other Games have been more suc- couple of car parks with portable toilets infrastructure for the London Organis- cessful – the 1984 Los Angeles showcase however. Not only must the playing arena ing Committee of the Olympic Games ended with a US$250m (£156m) surplus, be of a high enough standard to house a (LOCOG). “And three weeks after the Seoul was US$300m (£188m) in the black sport’s Blue Riband event, but the needs Closing Ceremony we’ll be doing it all over again for 20 Paralympic sports.” An artist’s impression of Horse Guards Paul Deighton, LOCOG’s chief execu- Parade hosting the beach volleyball event tive, adds: “Our aim is to construct a cost

Issue 4 2009 © cybertrek 2009 Read Sports Management online sportsmanagement.co.uk/digital 41 NON-TRADITIONAL STRUCTURES TEMPORARY VENUES River zone venues UÊ ExCeL London Olympics: , judo, fencing, taekwon- do, table tennis, weightlifting, wrestling Paralympics: boccia, powerlifting, table tennis, judo, wheelchair fencing UÊ The O2 Above: Artist’s impressions of fencing at ExCeL and equestrian at Greenwich Park (below) Olympics: basketball, gymnastics Paralympics: wheelchair basketball effective portfolio that demonstrates Lon- organic or hi-tech feel and make people UÊ North Greenwich Arena 2, temporary arena don’s design capabilities, meets our vision feel invited in, not held back and how Olympics: badminton, rhythmic gymnastics for sustainability and provides a model developing additional transport solu- Paralympics: volleyball from which other cities can learn when tions is an important part of overlay. UÊ Greenwich Park, temporary arena they plan major events in the future.” “At ExCeL – where seven Olympic and Olympics: equestrian, modern pentathlon Just a few items on the list of things five Paralympic events will take place – a Paralympics: equestrian to consider include: catering for 20,000 one-way rail system is being planned with UÊ Royal Artillery Barracks media representatives in the main press spectators coming to one and leaving at Olympics: shooting centre and international broadcast the other of two Docklands Light Railway Paralympics: shooting, archery centre as well as 17,000 athletes and of- stations that already serve the venue. ficials and 70,000 volunteers; the supply Three additional carriages per train Central and other London venues of 200,000 temporary seats, countless should increase the railway’s capacity by UÊ Lord’s metres of temporary fencing and tonnes 50 per cent and shuttle buses are being Olympics: archery of sand; and then there’s the additional planned to ferry spectators from nearby UÊ The Regent’s Park power and public transport to facilitate underground mainline Canning Town.” Olympics: cycling the events to take into consideration. UÊ Hyde Park Building Challenges Olympics: , 10km open water swim Design Issues Mike McNicholas, project director for UÊ Horse Guards Parade John Barrow, senior principle at Popu- London 2012 at engineering services Olympics: beach volleyball lous design practice, which has been provider Atkins, explains how increas- UÊ Earls Court chosen to provide the architectural ing the capacity of existing venues also Olympics: volleyball and overlay design services lead for the provides major engineering and con- UÊ Wimbledon Games, says: “To mix the traditional Brit- struction challenges. “How, for example, Olympics: tennis ishness of London with the hi-tech world do we provide Horse Guards Parade of international sports design, while with enough electricity to put on beach Outer London venues looking after customers from all over the volleyball for 15,000 spectators, competi- UÊ Hadleigh Farm, Essex world in the way they would expect re- tors and the world’s media?” He asks. Olympics: quires a great deal of design flexibility. “Do we upgrade the local grid or bring UÊ Broxbourne White Water Canoe Centre Olympics: canoe slalom To mix the traditional Britishness of London with the UÊ Eton Dorney, near Windsor hi-tech world of global sports design, while looking after Olympics: rowing, canoe sprint Paralympics: rowing international customers requires a great deal of flexibility

“Greenwich Park is a heritage site, in our own generators – and what effect Phase One much of which has remained unchanged will this have on noise levels? Similarly, According to James Bulley, LOCOG, the since it was built by great architects like what increase in power capacity will a Olympic Delivery Authority and their Inigo Jones in the 17th century,” Bar- venue like ExCeL need? What kind of partners are already understanding the row explains. “It must be treated with contingency and resilience do we need nature of the sites and venues. Layouts a light touch so that its essence remains to put in place and what modifications have been mapped out and operational untouched for many years to come after will need to be made to ensure optimum plans are being delivered with input from the 23,000-seater temporary dressage air flow, temperature and lights? the police and transport organisations. arena and accompanying support struc- “Of course, it also goes without saying “The temporary structures will start to tures are taken down.” that we have to be very aware of mini- go in eight months before the Games, He explains how temporary fencing malising our carbon footprint at all the although some venues have other events around the venues should provide an venues,” he adds. during this period, so we have to work around their schedules,” Bulley explains. Tendering for furniture and equip- ment is already underway. For commodities and project management the process begins next year, while ten- ders for other miscellaneous work will be issued throughout 2010 and 2011. L Crispin Andrews is a freelance writer

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Issue 4 2009 © cybertrek 2009 Read Sports Management online sportsmanagement.co.uk/digital 43 Ground modelling, design and construction of all natural turf & synthetic sports surfaces

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44 Read Sports Management online sportsmanagement.co.uk/digital Issue 4 2009 © cybertrek 2009 SYNTHETIC SURFACES

Long-term Benefits of MAINTENANCE

SAPCA’s Colin Young outlines the importance of regular sports surface maintenance and discusses the key principles and benefits from a financial and longevity perspective

he use of synthetic sports surfaces specific product and its specific needs. The maintenance requirements will has grown significantly in the UK Companies should always provide clients differ according to the type of surface since the 1970s, but the miscon- with a handbook (operations manual) and its usage. The usage of a facility T ception remains within certain outlining the particular maintenance should be carefully planned to ensure sections of the marketplace that they re- requirements of their surface. one particular area is not overused, such quire little or no maintenance. Not only as the goal mouths of a football pitch or is this detrimental to their playing qual- Basic Principles of Maintenance the inside lanes of a running track. While ity, but through premature ageing and Maintenance processes will differ be- this is sometimes unavoidable, care replacement of sports surfaces it inevita- tween surface types but the basic should be taken to use the facility evenly bly also reduces the effective benefit of principles and objectives are the same: as far as possible. If some areas are used investment in sports facilities. UÊ Remove detritus from the surface more frequently than others the main- Maintenance is of vital importance UÊ Apply treatments to reduce/impede tenance at these locations should reflect if a sports surface is to remain good to the growth of plant life these variations. look at, to perform consistently at the UÊ Clean and power wash the surface required standard, to retain its perme- to remove plant life, dirt and other ability and last a long period of time. contamination Indeed, the surface’s guarantee will usu- UÊ Re-distribute the loose elements of ally be conditional on the maintenance the surface (filled surfaces only ie requirements being carried out with rea- synthetic turf or clay) sonable diligence. The recommendations UÊ Repair broken elements of the surface of the surface installer or manufacturer UÊ Ensure the equipment (goals and should be followed at all times as they netting etc) is safe and in good will have the best knowledge of their working order

The usage of a sports facility should be carefully planned to ensure a particular area is not overused

Issue 4 2009 © cybertrek 2009 Read Sports Management online sportsmanagement.co.uk/digital 45 SYNTHETIC SURFACES

There are different types of mainte- CASE STUDY – THE INFLUENCE OF MAINTENANCE nance that can be carried out on the surface, ranging from routine clean- ing and brushing to more advanced treatments requiring specialist equip- ment and chemicals. Simple routine maintenance can be conducted by the groundstaff but more advanced proce- dures are often undertaken by specialist companies with bespoke advanced equipment which can add new life to an ageing facility.

Keeping the surface clean Leaves, tree flowers, pine needles, dirt from users and other detritus should not be allowed to remain on the surface for any length of time. If this does hap- pen, they rapidly rot down to form a drainage-inhibiting ‘skin’ within the surface and provide a growing-medium for algae and moss. A wide, soft broom or a rubber-tined rake is ideal for removing vegetable matter and other rubbish. Better still, a mechanical leaf-sweeper or vacuum pecialist maintenance provider Technical Surfaces was keen to evaluate the cleaner will greatly speed up the op- influence of its maintenance techniques on playing surfaces. The firm com- eration. The equipment should be well S missioned the Sports Technology Institute at Loughborough University to maintained and carefully operated to investigate the role of their equipment and in particular the effects of brushing on avoid contamination of, or physical the wear of synthetic turf. A novel robotic device was developed (see picture) to damage to, the surface. simulate brushing in order to investigate several scenarios using different pieces of The provision of litter bins and an in- equipment. Simulations were conducted on the surfaces to replicate high-intensity formation board outlining key dos and maintenance over a 20-year period to demonstrate a worst case scenario. don’ts will also help to keep the surface This independent research showed that the levels of wear caused by the brushes clear of rubbish brought on by players used by Technical Surfaces to maintain sports surfaces were insignificant. Dr Paul and users of the facility. It is strongly Fleming, the lead researcher for the project, states: “The summary results clearly recommended that the surface should show a low level of wear that was observed to be caused by the brushing alone. The be treated as a no smoking area, as life of 20 years was used to represent a period of time longer than most artificial a dropped cigarette can damage the surfaces survive in practice. In reality, the effects of surface usage for playing the surface resulting in unsightly marks. sport or training (total weekly hours at Loughborough University for example, is Chewing gum should also be banned around 50-60 per week on the soccer/rugby surfaces) and environmental effects are for this reason. considered to be the main contributors to wear.” Full details of this innovative research project can be found on the Technical Brushing Surfaces website www.technicalsurfaces.co.uk Brushing the surface is a crucial opera- tion if premature deterioration of the playing characteristics, appearance and a small tractor unit with low-pressure drainage properties are to be prevented. tyres. This type of maintenance will help Apart from freshening up the look of ensure the performance characteristics the surface, the purpose of regular and of the surface are maintained. fairly vigorous brushing is to prevent the formation of a compacted and impervi- Power Brushing and ous skin on the top of the surface. Decompaction This is especially noticeable on a This is a common procedure for synthetic synthetic turf surface with a sand or turf surfaces. The principle involves the rubber infill. By constantly disturbing use of a powered brushing machine, of- and moving the upper layers of the sur- ten with contra-rotating brushes, which face, brushing can delay the time when ensures that the synthetic turf fibres problems of reduced drainage start to remain upright and the infill remains mo- develop by several years. It is common bile within the surface. This is normally to use a drag brush which is pulled by undertaken by specialist companies; its Regular maintenance improves play

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Issue 4 2009 © cybertrek 2009 Read Sports Management online sportsmanagement.co.uk/digital 47 SYNTHETIC SURFACES

frequency is dependent on the amount the surface is used and its surrounds. This could be as much as monthly for very high usage facilities or just annually for much less well-used surfaces. Severe pitch Deep and Power Cleaning problems can be If, in spite of the regular maintenance corrected with described above, or as a result of a lack specialist machinery of it, a surface becomes dirty – or in the case of synthetic turf – over-compact- ed and impervious, these conditions can often be corrected by appropriate treatment involving the use of specialist machinery. The type of cleaning will depend on the surface type. Polymeric surfaces (and some macad- am surfaces) will require cleaning with high-pressure jetting apparatus, which might include detergent and fungal in- hibitors to remove dirt and prevent moss Maintenance should be budgeted from the project outset and and algae growth. included in the business plan and sinking fund provision Synthetic turf surfaces require dif- ferent machinery depending on their design. Generally machines vary from simple scarifiers to more elaborate Potential Cost £1,500,000.00 proprietary machines that remove a Saving 15 year cycle 10 year cycle £1,300,000.00 proportion of the infill (containing Detailed on the right 7 year cycle 5 year cycle almost all the filtered dirt) from the is a worked example £1,100,000.00 upper part of the synthetic turf. This illustrating the cost ben- £900,000.00 is then replaced with new (or cleaned) efits of extending the £700,000.00 infill. The best of these processes will life-cycle of a synthetic £500,000.00 improve the play characteristics, ball roll turf pitch from between £300,000.00 and surface/foot interaction and will five and 15 years. The £100,000.00 prolong the useful life of the pitch by a graph shows the income number of years. generation over the full -£100,000.00 It is essential that any scarification life-cycle. The negative -£300,000.00 or very deep penetration of the sur- sections highlight the -£500,000.00 face is only carried out by experienced cost of a replacement Year 1 Year 2 Year 3 Year 4 Year 5 Year 6 Year 7 Year 8 Year 9 Year 10 Year 11 Year 12 Year 13 Year 14 Year 15 operatives and, if still under warranty, ap- synthetic turf system Cost benefits of extending the life cycle of synthetic turf proved by the installer or surface supplier. after five-, seven-, 10- and 15-year cycles. Benefits of Maintenance It has been shown that maintenance companies and individuals to demon- The long-term benefits of maintenance can significantly extend the useable life strate their knowledge and competency may be becoming better understood, but of a synthetic sports surface. The illustra- for the first time within a nationally all too often little provision is devoted tion above demonstrates the positive recognised framework as part of the to it. Maintenance should be budgeted implications this can have for the facility National Occupational Standards and is from the outset of a new project and and its sinking fund provision. independently examined by the award- included in the business plan and sink- ing body EdExcel. ing fund provision. It should start from Maintenance Competency SAPCA’s Code of Practice for the Main- the first day after the handover of any and Training tenance of Synthetic Surfaces provides new facility. The roles and responsibilities SAPCA has developed a National Voca- more detailed information on each should be clearly identified, including in- tional Qualification (NVQ) in Sports and type of surface. It is available to down- house provision and the role of specialist Play Installation which has a mainte- load free of charge from the technical companies as required. nance route. This qualification allows guidance section of the SAPCA website, www.sapca.org.uk. L Brand new facility (capital investment) £500,000 If you would like further information Annual income from renting £125,000 on any aspects of surface maintenance (less operating costs) (35h/week commercial hire) or qualifications contact Dr Colin Young of SAPCA at [email protected] or Replacement synthetic turf system £150,000 telephone 024 7641 6316

48 Read Sports Management online sportsmanagement.co.uk/digital Issue 4 2009 © cybertrek 2009 ARTIFICIAL TURF SHOCK PAD

XC (patent pending) C (patent pending)

TROCELLEN GMBH Mülheimer Straße 26 D-53840 Troisdorf Phone: +49 2241 85 3739 trocellen.com/artificial-turf 2012 PROFILE Jean Tomlin We talk to Jean Tomlin, director of human resources for the London 2012 Organising Committee (LOCOG), about how the general public can get involved in the Olympic volunteering programme and what skills are needed

Why are volunteers such a key part of delivering the Olympic and Paralympic Games? Every Olympic and Paralympic Games needs volunteers in order to deliver the events and London 2012 is no exception. We anticipate requiring up to 70,000 in a variety of different roles. About half of these will come with specialist skills that we need to help deliver the Games.

When and how will you start to recruit volunteers? The application process will open in the summer of 2010 and we will then assess and interview successful appli- cants throughout 2011. This process will be supported by an online application form and clear infor- Track official volunteers: keeping time at Lee Valley Athletics Stadium mation as to what the roles are, what we are looking for and what each appli- cant can expect from the experience. also be a variety of city volunteer pro- requirements will be guaranteed an in- grammes – based at key points around terview for a Games-time volunteer role. What kind of roles will there be? the cities and towns near venues to There will be a wide variety of roles, but give local information. How should people express their most will include helping with specta- interest in becoming a volunteer? tors around the venues. However, we Are there any schemes people People who are interested in volunteer- will also require volunteers with medical can get involved in now? ing at the 2012 Olympic or Paralympic skills, technical skills and those with We have a small office-based volunteer Games should register their interest language skills too. Importantly, we programme called Trailblazers, which at www.london2012.com/volunteer- want these people to come from a allows people to come and give their ing. We will be in touch over the coming wide variety of backgrounds and to time to help us prepare for the Games. months advising them of how our represent all the UK’s communities. People are welcome to apply for any application process is shaping up of these roles, which are posted on for next summer. Will people need prior experience? the London 2012 website at www.lon- No prior experience is required but we don2012.com/trailblazers. Will there also be a scheme for think it is a good idea if people have There’s also an official London 2012 selected volunteers to link up been involved in some kind of volunteer pre-volunteer programme called with NGBs, sports events and activity in the past as this gives them a Personal Best that runs in London, as community sport after 2012? real understanding of what it’s like. well as the South West, the West Mid- We are keen that the London 2012 And of course all volunteering work is lands and the North East of England. volunteer programme inspires lots of good for local communities too. This scheme is designed to encourage people to get involved in volunteering people who are not working to get across the country. We very much Will there be roles created specifi- active and learn new life skills through hope that those that do, then stay cally for the London Games? volunteering. involved – either through existing Outside requirements at our specific All those people that graduate from volunteer bodies or via specific sports venues, it’s expected that there will Personal Best and meet our minimum clubs and associations.

50 Read Sports Management online sportsmanagement.co.uk/digital Issue 4 2009 © cybertrek 2009             

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Issue 4 2009 © cybertrek 2009 Read Sports Management online sportsmanagement.co.uk/digital 51 ATHLETICS

Tracking SUCCESS

Pete Hayman looks at some of the recently developed or refurbished athletic facilities that are available to help in the sport’s continual growth over the coming years

ith less than three years to place for the sport to continue its just as crucial to the development of go until the start of the Lon- growth over the coming years. athletics in Britain is ensuring that exist- don Olympic and Paralympic “The advent of the London Olympics ing facilities are also kept up to standard. W Games, the Olympic Park is and the government’s Building Schools “Perhaps more important than the not the only place where the construc- for the Future project have created a provision of new facilities is the main- tion of venues is in full flow. Sports clubs growing interest in sport generally and tenance of existing ones,” he explains. and local authorities across the UK are athletics in particular,” he says. “Both “Facility providers find it increasingly also engaging in projects to provide new UKA and England Athletics are well difficult to fund the upkeep and refur- and upgraded facilities that will form aware of the opportunity which has been bishment of athletics facilities. the basis of a lasting legacy beyond the presented to them and there are signs “Poorly maintained tracks do not en- 2012 Games and contribute towards ef- that participation levels are improving.” courage usage and can lead to track forts to get more people participating. Sutcliffe explains that UKA has a strict closures, loss of local amenities and job Athletics – a large part of the Games – certification system in place to ensure losses. Those responsible for budgets are one of the many sports that is in that upgraded athletics facilities meet need to ensure that adequate provision line to benefit, and UK Athletics’ (UKA) certain standards for training and com- is made for capital costs, running costs, facilities manager Peter Sutcliffe believes petition, while new builds are subject to equipment costs and the refurbishment that the opportunities are now in scrutiny at the planning stage. However, of track surfaces.”

QUEENS PARK TRACK, INVERNESS One athletics facility that has recently benefited from a major renovation is the Queens Park track in Inverness, north Scot- land. A new eight-lane Polytan all-weather track has been laid adjacent to the Inverness Leisure complex as part of a £135,000 revamp funded by Inverness Common Good Fund and the Highland Council. A photo finish system and seating for 300 spectators are also on offer at the facility, which aims to capitalise on the On your marks at Queens Park’s recent media coverage of Jamaican sprinter Usain Bolt’s re- renovated facilities in Inverness cord-breaking runs at the World Championships to captivate local young people to take up the sport. Championships in Berlin where the 100m record was smashed, James Martin, Inverness Leisure’s general manager, says: we are hopeful that this profile raised along with the develop- “It’s been absolutely fantastic to watch up and coming ath- ments at Queens Park, may encourage more children to take letes running the first few laps on the new track at Queens up athletics and support the growth of the Inverness Harriers Park. After the widespread media interest in the World and other athletics groups in the longer term.”

52 Read Sports Management online sportsmanagement.co.uk/digital Issue 4 2009 © cybertrek 2009 BASILDON SPORTS VILLAGE Construction work is now underway on a major sports village development in Basildon, Essex. The Gloucester Park site already boasts a Grade 1 eight-lane track, up- graded two years ago, but the £38m scheme includes a 750-seat spectator stand and has been included in the Pre- Games Training Camp guide for London 2012. Basildon Council’s cabinet member for leisure and the arts, Kevin Blake, says that the new Basildon Sporting Vil- lage will not only support the existing facilities, but also aims to increase participation among local residents. “We are committed to raising the participation levels of our residents in sport and encouraging them to live healthy lifestyles,” he explains. “The sporting village is be- ABERDEEN SPORTS VILLAGE ing built to the side of the current athletics track as part of our ongoing commitment to leisure investment. The August 2009 opening of the £28m Aberdeen Sports “The Sporting Village will provide an improved home Village (ASV) in northern Scotland was the result of a part- for Basildon Athletics Club. It will also include the only 50m nership between the University of Aberdeen, Aberdeen City swimming pool in Essex and transform sport provision in Council and sportscotland to provide high quality sports fa- the Basildon area – encouraging the community to get in- cilities for students and the local community. volved in sport and fitness.” Located at the site of the Chris Anderson Stadium, the village offers both indoor and outdoor athletics facilities; the original stadium has been revamped to provide a 400m running track together with jumping and throwing areas designed to host a range of events. Meanwhile, the complex also boasts an indoor 135m, six-lane running straight with purpose-built areas for throwing and jumping events. George Yule, ASV chair, says: “The Aberdeen Sports Vil- lage is a fantastic facility which really is for use by everyone and will be an asset not only to the people of Aberdeen city and shire but also to the north-east region of Scotland. This local sports facility has been designed to international standards, with the London 2012 Olympic Games and the Glasgow 2014 Commonwealth Games in mind.” Louise Martin, chair of sportscotland, added: “The opening of the Aberdeen Sports Village marks another important milestone in improving sports provision in Scotland as part of the Scottish government’s National and Regional Sports Facilities Strategy.”

RYLAND CENTRE, BROMSGROVE The Ryland Centre in Bromsgrove, Worcestershire, is set to undergo a £700,000 scheme to upgrade the track and field events areas to ensure that local athletes are provided with high quality facilities in the lead up to London 2012. Bromsgrove and Redditch Athletics Club uses the centre PALMER PARK SPORTS STADIUM and a club spokesperson expressed hopes that the scheme Another facility to undergo refurbishment in recent weeks will help to increase participation and develop local talent. is the athletics track at Palmer Park Sports Stadium in Read- ing, Berkshire. A £137,500, 10-week revamp has been carried out by Polytan to provide the venue with an upgraded ath- WYCOMBE DISTRICT COUNCIL letics and cycle track. New netting for the hammer cage, a high jump landing area, pole upright poles and sand Wycombe District Council has unveiled its plans to build a pit covers have also been provided as part of the scheme, new community athletics track and pavilion at the Sir William with Stadia Sports supplying the equipment. Ramsay School in Hazlemere – to replace the existing facili- Reading Borough Council’s lead councillor for culture and ties at Wycombe Sports Centre. Although the project is still sport, Graeme Hoskin, says: “Palmer Park stadium provides at an early stage, the council has already consulted with local extremely important facilities for athletes and racing cyclists. residents over the proposals, which include a new eight-lane As a council we’re working hard to promote exercise and all-weather track, a hammer cage, a discus and javelin area sport for all and this work is part of that objective.” and jumping facilities, along with a pavilion.

Issue 4 2009 © cybertrek 2009 Read Sports Management online sportsmanagement.co.uk/digital 53 PROMOTIONAL FEATURE

WHITE LINE SERVICES INTERNATIONAL LTD Keeping our valued customers updated with our busy 2009 schedule, while preparing top UK venues for the 2012 Olympic and Paralympic Games.

WHAT WE DO BEST  Pressure cleaning the track at Crystal Half-way through cleaning the track at White Line Services International – a small Palace Stadium to ensure a safe, new- the Paralympics headquarters at Stoke family-run business – has been in involved look for the 2008 London Grand Prix Mandeville Stadium with sports projects since 1978.  Surface cleaning, repairs and relining Our services include: the track at the Birmingham Alexander  Pressure washing and marking tracks Stadium in time for the GB Selection trials  Repairing track surfaces for the 2008 Olympics  Red texture spraying  Cleaned, repaired, red texture-sprayed,  Lining sports courts surveyed and painted track lines at South  Surveying and painting running tracks. Leeds Stadium for 2008 track events  Washed and remarked the track at Stoke INDOOR CLEANING Mandeville Stadium – the official training We now have an Indoor Track washing ma- venue for athletes preparing for the 2012 chine which cleans track surfaces (including Olympic and Paralympic Games A cleaned, resurfaced, surveyed and painted Mondo) it removes all dirt leaving a pristine  Washed, red texture sprayed, surveyed track at Kirkwell in the Orkney Islands looking surface. Our machine will clean & and line painted Kirkwell Athletic suck up the water at the same time leaving Stadium in the Orkney Islands, Scotland a freshly washed & Dry Track ready for use. RECENT NEWS AHEAD OF THE GAME These are some of the recent projects we White Line Services has been involved have been or are currently involved in: in many interesting and varied sports  NEW FOR 2009 When cleaning your projects, including: sports surface we now rinse out the track edge drains and vacuum out the drain traps.  We have just completed 23 new courts Sports hall completed in Canterbury July 2009 at Canterbury Christ Church University Sports Centre on a Gerflor surface.  Painted an eight-lane athletics track to IAAF Class 2 certification in Mexico in December 2008  In early 2009 we completed work on CONTACT: two nine-court sports halls in HMYOI White Line Services International Ltd Feltham Young Offenders Prison 205 Holtye Road, East Grinstead  Spring 2009 we successfully completed West Sussex RH19 3ER cleaning, partly-resurfacing and Track clean Tel: 44 (0)1342 311155 in progress line painted an athletics track at Fax: 44 (0)1342 311156 Spenborough Pool and Sports Complex Email: [email protected] in North Yorkshire.

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54 Read Sports Management online sportsmanagement.co.uk/digital Issue 4 2009 © cybertrek 2009 TIMING

Birmingham Half Marathon

rganising a mass participation sporting event can Four races were run: the elite women’s, the elite men’s MAIN PIC: MARK SHEARMAN involve years of meticulous planning by armies of and the wheelchair race for the IAAF, as well as the Birming- Opeople. Running concurrently on 11 October, the ham Half Marathon, which received 12,500 entries. Birmingham Half Marathon and the International Associa- Kath Hudson talks to Birmingham City Council’s race di- tion of Athletics Federations (IAAF) Half Marathon attracted rector, the marketing and events manager for the official 200 elite athletes and thousands of other enthusiastic timing partner Seiko and the head of competitions and in- runners to take to the streets of Birmingham. ternational relations at UK Athletics

Julie Burden: Race director for Birmingham Half Marathon and the IAAF Half Marathon.

y main responsibilities are look- and finish gantries and the barriers up, timing company, also arrive on Saturday, ing after the athletes while as well as to sort out the water stations, so we have to make sure their needs are M they’re running, ensuring the as each world athlete has a specific drink met, including providing their power. course is laid out properly, taking care of at each one. Road closures start at 7pm A massive medical programme is put health and safety issues and the traffic in place, involving the West Midlands arrangements and making sure all the With the extra race, we Ambulance Service and St John’s Ambu- anti-doping measures are in place. lance – 80 or 90 medics go out on the The week running up to the event is a were expecting upwards course. We have ambulances and para- challenging one: we have the grade one of 60,000 spectators medics at the end and also work with course measurer in to check the course the fire service and the police to ensure through the night on Tuesday and on Fri- on some of the lesser roads, but get crowd safety. Last year 50,000 people day evening we put the blue line down going in earnest at midnight. lined the route. With having an extra for the athletes to follow. We work day The CIS screens, which give results for race this year, we were expecting there and night on Saturday to get the start the whole of the race and Seiko, the to be upwards of 60,000 spectators.

Issue 4 2009 © cybertrek 2009 Read Sports Management online sportsmanagement.co.uk/digital 55 TIMING

Susan Boobyer: Marketing services and events manager for Seiko UK

ur role was to time the elite ath- letes. As two separate events O were running concurrently, it meant having two sets of personnel and equipment, which was a big challenge. The first procedure on the day is to attach a small transponder chip to the athletes’ front bibs. All the athletes have to be checked to make sure they have the right bib, with the right transponder, and that the front bib corresponds with the back. Then we lay out the transponder pick up mats on the start and finish lines and install the equipment necessary for that. We have a whole bank of master and back up timers and when the race starts The elite athletes are timed by Seiko and we send somebody ahead of the athletes the mass participation race by HS Sports on a bike with one of these timers. They visit each of the 5km measuring points, within a split second, so television view- synchronising the start time with the ers see the results in real time. other equipment on the course. Because the transponder time can be When the athletes approach each the official time for the IAAF events, it Our partner company, HS Sports, of the transponder mats, their chip is has to be very accurate, as records and managed the timing for the Birmingham picked up by our system, their unique money are involved. Our system is very Half Marathon. For the mass races an identity is transferred down the ADSL expensive, with each chip costing around approximation of the time is fine and it line to our control centre at the start/ US$15 (£9), therefore, the transponders is less critical if not every athlete is cap- finish line. We put all that data together are collected at the end of each race. We tured. The chips are less expensive and and make a data stream, which goes to also have lead cars with clocks driving factored into the cost of the entry fee. the results company, who are also lo- around the course and a sophisticated They don’t have any of the 5km markers, cated in the start/finish line, so they can camera system at the end to ensure each all they need is the transponder mats generate the results. All this happens athlete is accurately measured. at the start and the finish.

Cherry Alexander: Head of competitions and international relations at UK Athletics

art of my remit is to prepare a strat- weren’t participating in enough sport, taking responsibility for an area, such as egy for the next 10 years to looking so they wanted high profile sporting finance, accreditation, medical and ac- P at the major events we want to events to inspire them. commodation and transport. The LOC host, then approaching the world and Eu- Once an event has been secured, my has to feed back to the executive steer- ropean governing bodies to bid for them. role changes slightly because I then be- ing group, which is made up of local MPs Once they are secured, we see which cities and the UKA chair or chief executive. would be interested in hosting them. Nine What made the workload of this race times out of 10 we’re bidding against Birmingham City Council huge was that the plans we made for the other countries, especially for track and wanted to host high World Half Marathon also had to relate field events. We won the right to host the to the mass race. However, the link be- World Half Marathon in April 2008. profile sporting events tween the two races and our promotions We chose Birmingham as the host be- to inspire its people pushed the entries up for the Birming- cause UK Athletics (UKA) has a fantastic ham Half Marathon from 8,000 last year, partnership with the city council: we’ve the first year it was run, to 12,500. hosted the World Indoor Championships come the link between UKA and the city. The major stress for me before the and the European Indoor Championships A Local Organising Committee (LOC) event is making sure all overseas athletes with them, as well as the National Cham- is set up to organise the event, which have their visas. On the actual day, the pionships. They were really pitching for is made up of myself, the champion- medal ceremony is the hardest thing to events at that time, as they had received ship director (normally a city employee) deal with, as it’s critical to get this done feedback that people in Birmingham and then a number of chairs each before the cameras go off air.

56 Read Sports Management online sportsmanagement.co.uk/digital Issue 4 2009 © cybertrek 2009 PROMOTIONAL FEATURE

TARAFLEX Competitive Advantage

The 2012 Olympic Games, the 2014 Commonwealth Games and the British public’s insatiable appetite for sporting events are generating a large increase in enquiries for portable sports flooring solutions across the UK

osting a sports event can take in the best possible way and to cre- space at this year’s Grassroots Football a lot of planning and prepara- ate a spectacular experience to those LIVE at the NEC in Birmingham. At- tion and can be unnecessarily watching. The court also offers us the tracting thousands of players, coaches, Hcostly if mistakes are made. versatility to play competitions in ven- managers and anyone who has an inter- However, Gerflor has the perfect - ues that are not dedicated to handball est in football, Bob Rosen, MD of show ing solution. “We work with our clients or even sport,” he says. Recent interna- organiser VCM, says that sport surfaces to ensure a bespoke package that fits tional competitions using this type of play a very important part in the show. with their individual needs,” says Gerflor flooring have taken place at the Liver- “We were delighted with the bespoke sports manager Darren Wood. pool Echo Arena and the Crystal Palace solution that Gerflor provided and the “We also work with the National Gov- National Sports Centre. Taraflex sport team installed a world erning Bodies (NGB) on sport events in Scottish Volleyball decided on a Taraf- class floor ahead of schedule,” he says. the UK as a Taraflex temporary court lex court for use at the Scottish Finals at In another branding exercise, Gerflor installation helps to raise the bar and ul- Wishaw Sports Centre in June this year. came up with a flexible silicone paint timately the standards of play,” he adds. The event was a great success and the solution when the Glasgow Rocks bas- Two NGBs that have recently benefit- Taraflex installation team offered practi- ketball team wanted to use their logo ed from their partnership with Gerflor cal on-site training to Scottish Volleyball on court at the Kelvin Hall International are British Handball and Scottish Vol- volunteers to enable them to install the Sports Arena. leyball. In the case of British Handball, flooring for future events themselves. Taraflex by Gerflor is an international- its primary responsibility is to ensure the Margaret Anne Flemming, CEO at ly acclaimed sports flooring solution and success of the British Team in 2012. A sec- Scottish Volleyball, says: “It would not has been used at every Olympic Games ondary responsibility is to promote the have been possible to deliver the com- since 1976. Gerflor provides portable, sport of handball nationally. petition to the standard that we did temporary and permanent sports floor- Paul Goodwin, CEO at British Hand- without the commitment and enthusi- ing solutions for: ball, says: “Obtaining a portable court asm of the Gerflor team.” UÊ Football/ Futsal UÊ Tennis was important for us for a number of UÊ Basketball UÊ Hockey reasons. It allows us to present our sport Commitment and enthusiasm UÊ Volleyball UÊ Badminton Gerflor also installed three sports courts, UÊ Handball UÊ Boccia Gerflor provides portable, temporary and together with line marking and logos UÊ Table Tennis UÊ Goalball permanent flooring for a variety of sports across a total of 2,300sq m of exhibition UÊ Floorball UÊ Aerobics

For further information and specification advice, please call or email Darren Wood Taraflex Sport Manager on +44 (0)7836 366579 [email protected] or visit www.gerflor.co.uk

Issue 4 2009 © cybertrek 2009 Read Sports Management online sportsmanagement.co.uk/digital 57 sport-kit.net TEMPORARY FLOORING

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Gerfl or fl oors the Grassroots show

Gerfl or’s Tarafl ex sports fl ooring was used for all the playing surfaces at this year’s Grassroots Football Show. A total of 2,200sq m of Tarafl ex provided fl ooring for training and coaching sessions, along with various demonstrations throughout the three- Mondo was able to install a The Everlay membrane provides a day event at the NEC in Birmingham. temporary athletic surface onto barrier between the aluminium deck- Gerfl or has also provided per- London’s Millennium Bridge – ing of the bridge and the rubber manent fl ooring solutions for the thanks to the company’s Everlay track and can be used to protect the Commonwealth Games, Davis Cup, loose-lay isolating membrane. track from any underlying contami- international handball events and Laid to coincide with the nation, such as moisture, that may every Olympic Games since 1976. announcement that Adidas is the affect fl ooring adhesives. The surface will feature again at next offi cial sportswear partner of the Everlay can be used as a base year’s Grassroots event in June 2010. London 2012 Olympics, the surface for any sports or commercial fl oor. sport-kit.netd keywor was demonstrated by US sprinters sport-kit.net keyword gerfl or Allyson Felix and Tyson Gay. mondo

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58 Read Sports Management online sportsmanagement.co.uk/digital Issue 4 2009 © cybertrek 2009  

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Issue 4 2009 © cybertrek 2009 Read Sports Management online sportsmanagement.co.uk/digital 59 sport-kit.net TEMPORARY FLOORING

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60 Read Sports Management online sportsmanagement.co.uk/digital Issue 4 2009 © cybertrek 2009 The New Generation of PUR Indoor Sports Floors Flame retardant and low emission indoor surfacing systems

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Issue 4 2009 © cybertrek 2009 Read Sports Management online sportsmanagement.co.uk/digital 61 NGB RESTRUCTURING

NGBRESTRUCTURING

We look at how some of sport’s National Governing Bodies are reviewing their internal business structures to increase the nation’s participation in sport

port England’s key to delivering Women in Sport and Fitness Foundation, the grassroots sporting legacy Sports Coach UK, Streetgames and Skills- attached to London 2012 was to Active are also delivering specific services S put sport’s National Governing that underpin the NGBs’ work and help Bodies (NGBs) at the heart of the strategy. them tackle specific issues. SkillsActive, Using the NGBs’ networks of com- for example, is helping them to work munity clubs, coaches and volunteers to towards their workforce development help drive delivery, most of the £480m plans (needed to acquire funding) by Whole Sport Plan funding has now upskilling NGB volunteers with the been awarded by Sport England, giv- required qualifications. ing the chosen NGBs greater autonomy. “The objective is to ensure that every- Alongside this they also have greater re- one who plays sport has the best possible sponsibility for effective delivery against experience and makes sport a life long Sport England’s key targets: to help their habit,” Sport England’s director of sport, sport grow, sustain and excel. Lisa O’Keefe, explains. “That’s why some Helping NGBs to reach the participa- of the NGBs we are investing in are using tion, satisfaction and talent development our financial and professional support to targets, Sport England’s Sport Directorate develop their capacity to offer high-qual- department has been offering hands-on ity sport. The result will be a community advice through relationship managers. sport system capable of continuing In addition, its national partners, the growth for many years to come.”

BADMINTON ENGLAND Adrian Christy, chief executive, Badminton England

ADMINTON England is looking forward to the oppor- specific responsi-

tunity to further grow the sport during this current bilities – including PHOTO: WWW.ACTIONPHOTOGRAPHY.CO.UK Bfunding period and beyond, with growth and sus- participation, tained participation at the heart of our 10-year strategy – a coaching and com- Decade of Delivery. With the eyes of the world focusing on petition – while sport in this country as part of our collective legacy aspi- also addressing rations, we’ve set about ensuring that we can rise to the the challenges of exciting challenge facing our sport. access to more In recent years we’ve demonstrated significant growth in court time – a real participation as a result of the tremendous efforts of our barrier to over- staff, volunteers and the partners we’ve worked with. We’ve come if we’re to recently undertaken a process of ensuring an absolute focus realise the objec- on delivering success against some key business outcomes tives we have set. around growth and sustainability of activity. But it’s not just about paid staff. No matter how much This has involved realigning the roles of our development investment we receive from government, it could never rec- network by employing a team of regional officers. Each has ompense the time and effort of our volunteers and no sport should lose sight of the value of this resource places in our abil- We shouldn’t lose sight of the value of ity to deliver long-term participation. We’re therefore making volunteers in our ability to deliver a considerable effort towards ensuring our volunteers are very much part of the vision for badminton and we look forward to long-term participation in sport their continued support for many years to come.

62 Read Sports Management online sportsmanagement.co.uk/digital Issue 4 2009 © cybertrek 2009 Kelsi Fairbrother (top) and Huw Goodwin (below) are members of the GB squad (both wearing white)

ENGLAND HANDBALL Stephen Jones, general secretary, England Handball

f you were to ask what the England Handball Associa- precursor to developing tion (EHA) was like prior to the awarding of the London a structure that could I2012 Olympics, I would probably have described it as a take the organisation committee responsible for running the national leagues. forward and make it fit It would have been hard to differentiate the British Hand- for purpose with de- ball Association (BHA) and the EHA as they were really one tailed spending plans and the same. I would also have called the organisation as for the next four years. a Blazer Brigade, a gentlemen’s club with pipe and slippers This process has in- and happy with their lot – although a tenacious bunch when volved a split in the challenged to affect change. organisation so that the EHA is now separate from the BHA. Then London won the bid to host the 2012 Olympic Games The BHA’s main focus is on elite teams and the EHA con- and Sport England introduced a fresh dynamic process to centrates on development. Now that England Handball is a engage the NGBs and, more importantly, the imagination limited company, it is operating on a professional footing, of club membership to build a sport worthy of the greatest guided by company law and financial regulations and the event in the world. board is made up of elected members and will be appointing The BHA had already received £3m to support handball’s independent directors from commercial enterprises to bring elite men’s and women’s teams. So it was now up to the in business expertise. EHA to embed handball into the school curriculum; increase During this process, the BHA has also established devel- the number and improve the opment groups within the quality of leaders, coaches We consulted with club members – organisation that focus on dif- and clubs; develop competi- giving them an opportunity to vent their ferent programmes – such as tion and performance from handball development, schools the bottom up and create a frustrations and harness their imagination participation, community and sustainable performance pro- club development. gramme that supports the elite side of the sport. Regarding the workforce, we are currently running de- In order to achieve these goals, the organisation consult- velopment programmes for referees and officials, as well as ed with handball club members across the country – giving for leadership and coaching and the sport has been selected them an opportunity to vent their frustrations as well as har- onto the UK Coaching Certificate (UKCC) for national en- ness their imagination as to how they would like their sport gagement sports, which is a huge endorsement for the work to look in and beyond 2012. We identified potential leaders we have been doing. We also have a governance group – as part of this process and set up a working group to capture which offers independent scrutiny to ensure that the organi- and collate this information. sation is fit for purpose. Taking advice from Sport England, we then drafted a stra- Next on our agenda is to establish a business and finance de- tegic plan and shared this with our members. This was the velopment group and set up a marketing and promotion group.

Issue 4 2009 © cybertrek 2009 Read Sports Management online sportsmanagement.co.uk/digital 63 NGB RESTRUCTURING

ROUNDERS ENGLAND Alison Howard, chief executive, Rounders England

his year has been a year of big changes for Rounders England. After 65 years, the National Rounders Asso- Tciation was rebranded as Rounders England. We also received a huge 450 per cent increase in funding from Sport England, as a result of the positive development the gov- erning body has already made. Over the next four years the £2.2m funding will be invested in rounders to help grow and sustain participation. Participation among adults has increased to 43 leagues in many areas of England and the latest Sport England figures show an increase in participation of 79 per cent between the Active People Surveys 1 and 2. Over 58,000 adults now regularly play the game and participation in schools has also increased by 5 per cent since 1994, with 89 per cent of schools now offering rounders to boys and girls. Over the next four years, we aim to increase participation by 13,800 by delivering relevant, innovative and targeted projects. The first project is to support development in other areas

Developing a professionally-trained workforce of coaches, tutors and assessors will provide high quality courses, events and competitions

by strengthening the infrastructure and corporate identity of to provide a higher quality of courses, events and competi- the organisation. Staff numbers increased in April 2009 from tions that will help to meet the needs of players four to 12, comprising of HQ and delivery staff in three care- and help grow and sustain participation. fully prioritised regions; the East and South East of England We will provide more playing opportunities by developing and the London area. A new corporate identity has also been STAR (Satellite Training Academies for Rounders) centres and introduced – bringing with it plans to develop the website, an indoor rounders game, so people can play all year round. data management systems and introduce new communi- Increasing participation will also provide more opportunities cation methods, which will help the game to appeal to a for competitions at both adult and younger player levels – re- broader audience and ensure a consistent and strong brand sulting in a larger talent pool and a higher profile of the sport. presence across all Rounders England activities. The challenges and changes facing rounders over the next Other projects include developing our coaching cours- four years are huge, but with the support of Sport England es, where Rounders England intends to produce 370 new and other partners – including SkillsActive, SportscoachUK, coaches this year alone. Developing a professionally trained the Youth Sport Trust and the County Sports Partnerships – workforce of coaches, tutors and assessors will help us rounders is well placed to deliver.

NETBALL ENGLAND Paul Clark, chief executive, England Netball

he Whole Sport Plan (WSP) funding (2009-2013) allowed England Netball to significantly grow its or- Tganisational structure to meet our grow, sustain and excel strategic outcomes. To maximise our impact at community level we have re- cruited a team of 50 county-based netball development officers (a combination of part- and full-time posts), to work with our volunteers and partners at a local level to deliver increased participation in the game, a stronger presence in schools, more and better quality junior clubs and a more ef- fective link between the latter two. This is based on the core assumption that to significantly grow participation in the sport we must have a stronger presence (volunteers and paid staff) at grassroots level. This has virtually doubled the size of the organisation.

64 Read Sports Management online sportsmanagement.co.uk/digital Issue 4 2009 © cybertrek 2009 chanceyour forglory We want disabled people to choose athletics and enjoy the opportunities it can bring Dame Tanni Grey-Thompson DBE Ambassador of Aviva Parallel Success

• Athletes with Visual Impairments • Dwarf Athletes • Manual Wheelchair Users • Athletes with Learning Disability • Amputees • Athletes with Cerebral Palsy Find out more... about how to get involved, visit www.uka.org.uk/grassroots/parallel-success or phone Marie Yates on 0121 713 8462

UK Athletics, Athletics House, Central Boulevard Blythe Valley Park, Solihull, West Midlands, B90 8AJ Phone: 0121 713 8462 or 07912 070624 PLAY More than playgrounds

Richard Newson of Play England looks at the need for local authorities and their partners to embrace the bigger picture when planning for children’s play and introduces an innovative new project, Play Shaper, that helps them to do this by making communities more child-friendly

ntil recently, play was often that have a stake in designing, planning, considered something that building and managing our communities. children just did: beyond the Instead of thinking of play in terms of U scope of legislation and gov- providing a scattering of sites where chil- ernment interest. But as the pressure on dren can play in parks and playing fields, public space has grown, exacerbated by the objective is to make whole communi- the ever-increasing number of cars on ties child-friendly. our streets, the space available for chil- To meet these aims, the Play Shaper dren to play has started to disappear. programme was created by a partner- At the same time, a heightened sense ship led by Play England with Playwork of the dangers that children face means Partnerships and SkillsActive. Play that, as adults, we are increasingly reluc- Shaper brings together professional tant to allow our children to roam freely. people working in diverse organisations Similarly, professionals providing play across a local area. The idea is for opportunities may feel so constrained them to explore the importance of chil- by health and safety concerns over ac- dren’s play and then look at what each cidents and injuries, that the play areas can do within their own professional we do provide lack the challenge and sphere, to enable and create more excitement that children need. child-friendly communities.

Child-friendly Communities The Benefits of Play Against this backdrop, the government The rewards to society for waking up decided to ask children themselves what to the potential of children playing ac- they thought could be done. Nearly tively are staggering. For a start, there 10,000 children came forward to partici- is an obvious contribution to the objec- pate in the Fair Play consultation and tives of health professionals keen to have their voices heard in Westminster. halt the year on year increase in obesity goes on to ask for community-based of- The main reason they gave for not play- in children under 11 years old. This is ficers to actively feed into the plans of ing outside was a lack of places to go a pressing concern, confirmed by the local authorities, play partnerships and and things to do. They wanted bigger findings of research conducted recently third sector groups and to take an active and better play areas with more exciting, by the British Heart Foundation, which role in the design of play areas and the challenging and varied equipment. They found that out of 4,000 children, one in routes used to travel to them. wanted to feel safe and be able to travel three are physically active for only one The list goes on: play and active travel easily to and from places to play. hour per week – as opposed to the hour can help excluded youngsters feel part In response, the government pro- per day recommended by the British of a community, reduce carbon emis- duced the first national Play Strategy in Medical Association. sions, provide local employment December 2008 and earmarked £235m Similarly, targeting play facilities to opportunities and increase residents’ for improving play space across England. specific areas can help address problems satisfaction with the places where they The lion’s share of this money has been of anti-social behaviour. In a recent let- live. In fact, it has been estimated that allocated to local authorities to refurbish ter to their members, the Association by making communities more child- and develop play facilities. of Chief Police Officers emphasised that friendly we can contribute to around However, the Play Strategy has a ‘good play and recreational facilities 43 of the national indicators used by greater ambition: to make play an ongo- contribute to reduced youth crime, help government to measure the perfor- ing priority not just for local authorities build safer communities and tackle the mance of local authorities. but for the whole range of organisations problem of social exclusion’. The letter Greater Collaboration Play and active travel can help excluded youngsters feel The importance of engaging a wide part of a community, reduce carbon emissions, provide local spectrum of people in such work is emphasised by Liz Kessler, the public employment and increase residents’ satisfaction space co-ordinator for EC1 New Deal for

66 Read Sports Management online sportsmanagement.co.uk/digital Issue 4 2009 © cybertrek 2009 The relevance of good play and recreational facilities can be emphasised to professionals ranging from police officers to housing managers, transport planners and community health managers

Communities, who has made signifi- also linked the places where children array of actions to take forward. These cant progress in making streets more live to their schools and play spaces with could include writing playable space child-friendly in parts of the London safer routes, which encourage them to into masterplanning exercises, develop- Borough of Islington. “Research shows move about under their own steam and ing more free play in schools’ extended that only 12 per cent of the time children are really play spaces in their own right.” services, building play opportunities into spend playing outside actually takes Greater collaboration in providing local obesity strategies, building closer place in designated play areas,” Kes- play provision is a statutory requirement links between open space strategies and sler says. “Once you realise that children set out in the Department for Chil- their Children and Young People’s Plans, play wherever they are, the challenge dren, Schools and Families guidance to or redrafting health and safety guidance. becomes to create a vision for an area Children’s Trusts. But making it happen After the initial Play Shaper event, lo- that is more playable across the board. among professional people who may not cal authorities are encouraged to embed Then you have to get everyone involved associate their role with children’s play, the Play Shaper programme into their to buy in to this vision: planners, builders, sometimes requires a helping hand and own training and development schemes, housing managers, transport planners, that’s where Play Shaper comes in. so that the relevance of play can con- highways engineers and local residents. tinue to be emphasised to professionals “The results can be impressive; for Play Shaper Seminars ranging from police officers to housing example, four estates in Islington have During the series of country-wide, one- managers, transport planners to commu- effectively become home zones where day Play Shaper cross-professional events, nity health managers. the street layout has been modified most participants embrace the new Let’s hope that this vision will result so motorists have to drive more care- thinking around play and the design of in England being the best place in the fully. The aim is to get a better balance playable communities. By the close of world in which to grow up. L between vehicular traffic and the other the day, participants – attending togeth- For more information on Play Shaper people using the roads, such as pedestri- er with partners from various services visit www.playshaper.org.uk or email ans, cyclists and children playing. We’ve in the same local authority – suggest an [email protected]

Issue 4 2009 © cybertrek 2009 Read Sports Management online sportsmanagement.co.uk/digital 67 SNOW SPORTS LET IT SNOW in Hemel Hempstead

Hemel Hempstead’s 30-year-old dry ski slope has been given a £23m makeover to become The Snow Centre, the first in a proposed chain of indoor snow slopes

lthough Hemel Hempstead’s for concern, since The Snow Centre is 30 Tourist Office to ask if any of the ski re- dry ski slope had earned a miles closer to London and may stem the gions were interested in sponsoring the reputation for providing good flow of visitors to Milton Keynes. walls and two regions, Oetztel and Zil- A instruction and turning out lertel, took up the offer. The back wall is good skiers and snowboarders, the ad- CREATING THE SNOW CENTRE sponsored by Columbia, which also pro- vent of artificial snow ski centres meant “We decided we wanted to create a vides all the clothing, and the equipment there was a limited future for dry slopes. training academy and a centre of excel- is sponsored by Head Tyrolian. The launch of Xscape at Milton Keynes, lence, not a theme park,” says Gillespie. The Snow Centre has been five years just a stone’s throw away, added to the “We went around all the snow centres in the making and opened for business problem. Although lesson bookings re- and took the best of the key things and in May this year, giving ample time to mained buoyant or even increased, there designed out what we thought didn’t sort out any teething problems before was a dramatic fall in people using the work. We wanted a big nursery slope, winter. “There were a few planning slope for recreational skiing and boarding. as most people come for lessons and issues,” says Gillespie. “This is quite a Owner operator David Surrey, who de- we wanted it to feel open, with wide funky building to be situated right in veloped the Hemel slope with his father, slopes and a high roof.” the middle of a residential area, this had a choice of ticking along or creating To animate the space, the walls are site was always designated for sports an ambitious, next generation centre. He decorated with mountain and recreational use. The town is be- took the latter option, putting together vistas: floor to ceiling ing renovated and the council is keen to an experienced board and enlisting the photos of Austrian make it more of a destination, so it was expertise of Pete Gillespie as snowsports scenery. Gillespie con- generally enthusiastic about creating an director. Now Xscape may have cause tacted the Austrian exciting venue to bring extra revenue

People can learn to be ski instructors or take refresher qualifications

The first year target is 300,000 visits, with a £6.5m turnover, extending to 500,000 visits in a few years’ time

68 Read Sports Management online sportsmanagement.co.uk/digital Issue 4 2009 © cybertrek 2009 FACTS

UÊ Cost £23m to develop UÊ 8,000sq m of real snow slopes UÊ The main slope is 160m long UÊ It has the UK’s largest indoor lesson slope: 100m x 30m UÊ Snow play area for kids under six years, with ringos and toboggans UÊ Rails and freestyle features UÊ Snow and Rock store UÊ The Edge café bar UÊ Three conference rooms UÊ 120 BASI-qualified instructors MY EXPERIENCE s a ski and snowboard addict who has been deprived for the past few years, I was excited about the prospect of getting a fix at The Snow Centre. A It’s an impressive building which flows well. The café bar, with its views of the slopes, has enough wood and slate in the design to give it a homely Alpine feel. Although it was good to see Gluhwein on the menu, I was disap- pointed not to get a crepe. Much time and money has been invested in the manufacture of the snow and the quality was good. Probably good enough to live up to the tongue-in-cheek strapline of “the best snow this side of the Alps.” I was pleasantly surprised at the standard of the tuition. My snowboard instructor, Tom, was extremely likeable and I was impressed with the subtle changes he made to my rusty technique. He gave me digestible advice and by the end of the hour lesson I was 100 per cent better and with more confidence. It would have been an excellent pre-holiday refresher, if only I had a holiday to look forward to!

The wood and slate within the design gives the centre a homely Alpine feel

to the town. We did have to make some changes to the initial plans; to start with it looked a bit like a massive shed, but the council told us we had to be more eco-friendly so we’ve now got one of the biggest cedar roofs in Europe.”

AMBITIOUS TARGETS The operating costs are high, so the stakes have been raised considerably from the projections of the artificial slope. In the first year, targets are 300,000 vis- obvious targets, the marketing is focused to people learning to ski and snowboard, its, with a £6.5m turnover. This compares on reaching new people, such as the fam- but people can learn to become instruc- with just 30,000-40,000 and £1m turnover ily market,” he says. “Most of the visitors tors, take refresher qualifications, or for the original dry ski slope. are As and B1s: this area has six million adaptive training, for those who want “It was a worry opening in the middle people within 45 minutes travel time. to teach people with disabilities. The up- of the recession, but we were already Fanatics come from further afield – two take has been excellent, with all of the committed,” says Gillespie. “However, to three hours drive – on a monthly ba- instructor courses already sold out. we have been overwhelmed with the sis. In a few years we hope to be getting Surrey and Gillespie have high hopes response and the level of success. We are 500,000 visitors a year. for the business: “The concept is to get on schedule at the moment and looking it up and running as quickly as possible, like we will achieve our year-end target.” CENTRE OF EXCELLENCE create the best business model in the The centre is being marketed via a web- The level of tuition is the USP. It is the world and then open the next one. We site and email marketing, as well as ski only British Association of Ski Instructors are already doing feasibility studies,” and snowboard and lifestyle magazines. (BASI) accredited Centre of Excellence in Gillespie says. L “Although ski and snowboard fanatics are the south. Not only are lessons offered Kath Hudson is a freelance journalist

Issue 4 2009 © cybertrek 2009 Read Sports Management online sportsmanagement.co.uk/digital 69 Sports Lighting Specialists

                 

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70 Read Sports Management online sportsmanagement.co.uk/digital Issue 4 2009 © cybertrek 2009 LIGHTING

All lit up at The Snow Centre Thorn Lighting’s Hugh King explains how the difficult task of lighting the Hemel Hempstead Snow Centre was handled using a floodlighting approach to enhance the shadow and detail of its snowy environment

ritain’s latest indoor real ground floor level at a pitch of 15 de- Conventional symmetrical-beam snow slope – The Snow Cen- grees. The slope ranges from almost floodlights at the relatively low- tre at Hemel Hempstead – is a horizontal along parts of the training mounting height of 10m would not B spectacular attraction by any slope to what feels like near vertical have been entirely satisfactory. standards. Constructed by Sir Robert down the main run. This meant which- To provide visual comfort for partici- McAlpine, the building boasts a 160m- ever lighting was chosen, it had to pants, an asymmetrical beam, useful long, 30m-wide, main run of real snow illuminate the ribbon-shaped surface for lighting areas rather than small for regular skiers and boarders and a while providing a pleasant and visually points, with effective cut-off was 100m-nursery slope for beginners. Snow comfortable environment for all Snow required. Thorn has had such a flood- cannon fire cooled water into the air Centre participants. light in its sports lighting armoury for that is chilled to cover 8,000sq m of the Further problems included a 60m- a number of years. It is known as the ski box in perfect, real snow. long centre wall before the main slope Contrast C. At the centre, 154 flood- opens up to accommodate the training lights are used, equipped with 400W Lighting Issues area, the high luminance of the snow, metal halide lamps. There are several fundamental problems limited mounting heights, the alpine en- Aside from high luminous efficacy the in lighting such a structure. The main vironment and the need for access metal halide lamp brings good colour run starts 32m above the building’s for future maintenance. rendition, high colour stability and a cool white appearance, which is ideally suited to the snowy interior. The flood- Few indoor sports demand better eye-hand-body lights are mounted just below roof level co-ordination and overall balance than skiing and on a central lattice truss in two rows (one row by the central wall). The truss snowboarding, so quality of vision is essential was supplied with mounting holes for the floodlights pre-drilled.

Issue 4 2009 © cybertrek 2009 Read Sports Management online sportsmanagement.co.uk/digital 71 LIGHTING

The Snow Centre walls are covered with continuous views of alpine peaks, which were floodlit to correct specification

It’s all in the Detail Few indoor sports demand better eye- Power supply dips can be a problem for sports facilities – hand-body co-ordination and overall allowing lighting levels to fall by 40 per cent. However, balance than skiing and snowboarding, so quality of vision is essential. In nature, correctly sized conductors limit the voltage drop to 3 per cent daylight has a generally downward bias, forming tiny shadows, which help ski- ers to pick out surface details on snow The problem of glare was resolved by which is unfortunate when the char- and orientate themselves. The lighting careful aiming – making sure that no acteristics of these backgrounds affect designer’s aim was to mimic this effect excessive amounts of light (hot spots) glare, modelling and lighting system using the floodlights from above to give were present – and most importantly, efficiency as well as the appearance of skiers visual contact with the slope. The by the use of indirect light. Roughly a the space. However, at The Snow Centre final aiming pattern used a combination third of the floodlights throw light up to the lighting team was briefed at an early of narrow vertical beam floodlights, for the ceiling to be bounced back onto the stage that the walls were to be mani- long throws to the sidewalls, and a wid- slope. Uplighting has the intrinsic virtue fested with continuous views of alpine er-angle version, for the nearside areas, of eliminating sharp shadows from the peaks (sky and mountains). A section to give an average of 400 lux. surface and producing a pleasing effect of the manifestation was measured at By controlling the vertical and hori- with no high luminance reflections. This Thorn’s lighting laboratory to obtain the zontal distribution, any tendency for technique is also aesthetically satisfy- correct reflectance factor, which was the lighting to flatten the surface with ing – after all, the client is delivering an then used to establish the exact number little discernable detail was avoided. Ad- authentic resort feel rather than an in- of floodlights required. ditionally, the use of beam diffractor dustrial shed with snow inside, as well as Also included in the brief was a main- attachments, which aid uniformity, was being energy efficient. tenance factor to allow for a loss of light rejected. By using the floodlights raw, the A major concern was that the single due to residues and icicles on the front peakiness of the contrast beam added to row of floodlights along the 60m central glasses, between cleaning intervals. the highlights and shadows to enhance wall (positioned high up the slope) was The floodlights are sealed to IP65 to the pattern and detail of the snow. mounted on the outside of the truss – to prevent any snow or moisture from en- light across the slope and thus overhang tering the body. Some floodlights throw light up to the the wall. At such a close distance it was One of the problems that confronts ceiling to bounce back onto the slope impractical to mount flood- any major sporting event or locale is lights back under the truss, power supply dips affecting the lumen yet light was required as one output of metal halide lamps. In such of the chair lifts operated a scheme lamps could extinguish and between the truss and wall. lighting levels fall by 40 per cent. In this The solution was to install a application the contractor used correct- continuous row of ColdForce ly sized conductors to limit the voltage enclosed fluorescent lumi- drop to 3 per cent or less. Selected flood- naires to the underside of lights also incorporate an additional the truss. halogen lamp to allow for safe stopping of activities in the event of mains failure. Early Briefing The lighting design was by Mark It is rare for lighting de- Mattimoe of Thorn Lighting and Acer signers to be involved in Snowmec Consultants provided design the issue of room surfaces, and specialist engineering advice.

72 Read Sports Management online sportsmanagement.co.uk/digital Issue 4 2009 © cybertrek 2009

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74 Read Sports Management online sportsmanagement.co.uk/digital Issue 4 2009 © cybertrek 2009 Boost your business Harness the power of our total marketing package SPORTS MANAGEMENT

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www.sportsmanagement.co.uk Principal contractors A Tennis Courts B Synthetic Pitches SAPCA C Athletics Tracks D Multi Sports E Natural Sportsturf DIRECTORY F Play Surfaces Ancillary Contractors, Manufacturers & suppliers The Sports and Play Construction SAPCA represents a wide range of G Adhesives Association, SAPCA, is the specialist constructors of natural and H Aggregate Producers recognised trade organisation synthetic sports surfaces, including I Equipment Suppliers for the sports and play facility both outdoor and indoor facilities, J Fencing Systems K Floodlighting construction industry in the from tennis courts and sports pitches L Indoor Structures UK. SAPCA fosters excellence, to playgrounds and sports halls. M Paint Manufacturers professionalism and continuous SAPCA also represents manufacturers N Screening/Windbreaks improvement throughout the and suppliers of related products, O Sports Surface Suppliers industry, in order to provide the and independent consultants that P Surface painting/Line Marking high quality facilities necessary for offer professional advice on the Q Civil Engineers & Groundworks the success of British sport. development of projects. R Irrigation & Pumping S Maintenance

PRINCIPAL CONTRACTORS

SPORTSTURF CONSTRUCTION Construction, Design & Braithwaites Yard, NATURAL AND SYNTHETIC SURFACES Surfacing of all Sports Facilities. Hallow, DRAINAGE AND MAINTENANCE Telephone: 08700 624370 Worcester, WR2 6PW TEL: 01494 866776 Fax: 08700 624371 FAX: 01494 866779 email: [email protected] T: 01905 640671 F: 01905 640621 [email protected] email: [email protected] www.agripower.co.uk Web: www.ambsports.com E: [email protected]

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FOR FUTURE EXHIBITIONS AND SEMINARS Tel: (01333) 422205 Fax: (01333) 424340 Tel: 024 7641 6316 or Email: [email protected] Email: [email protected] www.doesport.co.uk www.sapca.org.uk TENNIS & MULTI-USE GAMES AREAS – DESIGN, CONSTRUCTION & MAINTENANCE A B D

76 Read Sports Management online sportsmanagement.co.uk/digital Issue 4 2009 © cybertrek 2009 PRINCIPAL CONTRACTORS

The ERDC Group Limited, Head Office: The ERDC Group Limited, Southern office: Design, Build & Maintain the Finest 20 Harvest Road, Newbridge, Midlothian, Tel: (0116) 246 0500 Fax: (0116) 246 1561 4 Crossford Court, Dane Road, Sale M33 7BZ Tennis Courts & Sports Surfaces Scotland, EH28 8LW, Email: [email protected] Tel: 0161 905 1060 Fax: 0161 905 1070 Tel: 0131 333 1100 Fax: 0131 333 4300 01621 85 86 86 www.erdc.co.uk www.erdc.co.uk www.etcsports.net www.fossecontracts.co.uk

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QConstruction of Outdoor Sports Facilities QNew Build and Refurbishment SAPCA can be contacted on: QMaintenance QGeneral Civil Engineering MIDLAND CSB Tel: 01926 484530 024 7641 6316 Fax: 01926 485101 Email: [email protected] www.sapca.org.uk Tel: 01491 827810 Fax: 01491 827830 Web: www.midlandcsb.co.uk B C D O D

Unit 32, Clwyd Close, Newbury Berkshire Hawarden Industrial Est, Manor Lane, Hawarden, CH5 3PZ, t: 01635 34521 www.sandcslatter.com T: 01244 533184 11 Enterprise Way, Jubilee Business Park, Derby, DE21 4BB POLYTAN SPORTS SURFACES LIMITED [email protected] F: 01244 533184 Tel: (01332) 292202 Fax: (01332) 383546 Phone: +44 1509 282899 Fax: +44 1509 283099 SUPPLY AND INSTALLATION OF SURFACES AND E: [email protected] email: [email protected] Email: [email protected] EQUIPMENT FOR: L Multi-Sport Facilities website: www.novasport.co.uk www.plattconstruction.co.uk www.polytansportssurfaces.co.uk LCricket Facilities LPlay and Educational Facilities

D F O A D J K P Q B C D O D F

280 Watford Road, St Albans, Herts, European leaders in the manufacture, design & AL2 3DN construction of sports fields & training complexes Specialists in Tennis Courts and Tel: 01900 817837 Fax: 01900 817605 Multi Use Games Areas (MUGA’s) Tel: 01233 740574 Fax: 01233 740575 email: [email protected] Tel: 01727 730707 Email: [email protected] 7HITE(ORSE#ONTRACTORS,TD [email protected] www.supportinsport.com [[[[LMXILSVWIGSRXVEGXSVWGSYO www.sportscourts.co.uk Website: www.trevormay.co.uk

B E B D E Q R A I J P A D I J K L N O P S

PROFESSIONAL SERVICES

ATHLETICS AND SPORTS CONSULTANTS 27 The Water Gardens, De Havilland Drive, Hazelmere, Wycombe, Bucks HP15 7FN SPORTS FACILITY DESIGN Tel: 01494 440227 Fax: 01494 440227 SPORTS SURFACING CONSULTANCY GLDM, 12 Castle St. Hereford HR1 2NL E-mail: [email protected] part of the C.M.P.B Group T: 01432 358031 E: [email protected] www.as-consultants.co.uk Tel: 01206 273676 Fax: 01206 271537 www.gldm.co.uk

Sports Construction Consultancy Tel: 01403 259400 Fax: 01403 261250 email: [email protected] Tel: 0870 2403927 Fax: 0870 2403928 Email: [email protected] Tracks - Pitches - Courts & MUGA’S www.surfacingstandards.co.uk

To book your advertisement in the SAPCA directory call Nadeem +44 (0)1462 471902

To subscribe to Sports Management, log on to www.leisuresubs.com email [email protected] tel +44 1462 471913 fax +441462 433909. Annual subscription rates are UK £27, Europe £37 rest of world £58, students UK £13 Sports Management is published each quarter by The Leisure Media Company Limited, Portmill House, Portmill Lane, Hitchin, Herts SG5 1DJ, UK and is distributed in the USA by SPP, 75 Aberdeen Road, Emigsville, PA 17318-0437. Periodicals postage paid @ Manchester, PA. POSTMASTER. Send US address changes to Sports Management, c/o PO Box 437, Emigsville, PA 17318-0437.

The views expressed in print are those of the author and do not necessarily represent those of the publisher The Leisure Media Company Limited. All rights reserved. No part of this publication may be reproduced, stored in a retrieval system or transmitted in any form or by means, electronic, mechanical, photocopying, recorded or otherwise without the prior permission of the copyright holder. Printed by Manson Group Printers. © Cybertrek Ltd 2009 ISSN 1479/9146

Issue 4 2009 © cybertrek 2009 Read Sports Management online sportsmanagement.co.uk/digital 77 SAPCA DIRECTORY

ANCILLARY CONTRACTORS, MANUFACTURERS & SUPPLIERS

G Adhesives L Indoor Structures Q Civil Engineers & Groundworks H Aggregate Producers M Paint Manufacturers R Irrigation & Pumping I Equipment Suppliers N Screening/Windbreaks S Maintenance J Fencing Systems O Sports Surface Suppliers K Floodlighting P Surface painting/Line Marking

Abacus Lighting Limited Sutton in Ashfield B&L Fencing Services Ltd Nottinghamshire, NG17 5FT Phone: 01527 882101 BASF Construction Chemicals (UK) Ltd www.abacuslighting.com Fax: 01527 882123 Tel: 01623 511111 Tel: 0161 727 2864 Fax: 01527 503576 Fax: 01623 552133 Email: [email protected] www.blfencing.co.uk Email: [email protected] www.conica.basf.com Fencing Specialists to the Sports Industry

K G O P J O

CHRISTY LIGHTING LTD SPORTS Electrical & Lighting Engineering To book your advertisement HALLS 8 Northumberland Court, Dukes Park Industrial Estate, Chelmsford, Essex CM2 6UW in the SAPCA directory call Tel (01245)-451212 Tel 01995 606451 Nadeem Fax (01245)-451818 www.collinson.co.uk +44 (0)1462 471902 M P K L

GET UNDERCOVER MANUFACTURING With a CopriSystems Tel: 01920 860600 QUALITY SPORTS sports dome - PRODUCTS SINCE 1884 for year round protection Fax: 01920 485915 from the weather EDWARDS SPORTS, Email: North Mills, Bridport, Dorset DT6 3BE SUPPLIERS OF ADHESIVES FOR ALL APPLICATIONS Tel: 01794 301 000 Fax: 01794 301 342 [email protected] Tel: 01308 424111 Fax 01308 455800 IN THE SPORTS SURFACE INDUSTRY www.cuphosco.com Email: [email protected] Tel: 01889 271751 Fax: 01889 271161 www.coprisystems.com www.edsports.co.uk www.envirostik.com Email: [email protected]

L K I G

Exclusive Leisure Ltd 28 Cannock Street -278%00)673*8,);360(7*-2)78 ADVANTAGE LOW PROFILE Leicester LE4 9HR LIGHTING 743687796*%')7 Tel: 0116 233 2255 World Class Cushioned Acrylic Surfaces Tel: 01477 544 149 Fax: 0116 246 1561 9RMX*SVIWX4EVO&YWMRIWW'IRXVI4EVOIV(VMZI0IMGIWXIV0).4 Tel: +44(0)1883 723908 Email: [email protected] Email: [email protected] 8IP*E\ web: www.exclusiveleisure.co.uk www.poraflex.com )¦QEMPJS\WTSVXW$FXGSRRIGXGSQ www.franciscoatings.co.uk

K O P O M P

To book your advertisement in the SAPCA directory Quality British floors for every location Granwood Flooring Limited Tel: 01773 606060 Fax: 01773 606030 call Nadeem on +44 (0)1462 471902 e-mail: [email protected] www.granwood.co.uk email [email protected] O

Innovative, Durable, Tel: (01282) 777678 Strong – vinyl floors Fax: (01282) 778014 for creative minds Email: [email protected] Telephone: 01926 401500 www.thorntonsports.co.uk T +44 1204 384483 F +44 1204 384487 E-mail: [email protected] Web: www.gerflor.co.uk METCALF DRIVE L ALTHAM INDUSTRIAL ESTATE LLANCASHIRE BB5 5TU www.greenfi elds.eu

O I O P O I

The Sports and Play Construction Association can be contacted on: 024 7641 6316 Email: [email protected] www.sapca.org.uk

78 Read Sports Management online sportsmanagement.co.uk/digital Issue 4 2009 © cybertrek 2009 ANCILLARY CONTRACTORS, MANUFACTURERS & SUPPLIERS

For All Your High quality sports posts, Sports Lighting nets and tennis court equipment T: 0121 772 0724 Needs F: 0121 771 2597 E: [email protected] www.kingfisherlighting.com www.hexasports.co.uk Sales: 01623 415900

I I K J

Musco Lighting Europe Tel: (01282) 779666 Tel: 0800 234 6832 Fax: (01282) 776999 Email: Email: [email protected] www.musco.com [email protected] Tel: +44 7980 876652 E: [email protected] www.thorntonsports.co.uk ™ www.mondoworldwide.com GREEN GENERATION FLOODLIGHTING NORDON LTD LMETCALF DRIVE L ALTHAM INDUSTRIAL ESTATE LLANCASHIRE BB5 5TU

K O K O

               

PO Box 7, Wellington Mills, Liversedge, W Yorks WF15 7FH UK  )  **          Tel: +44 (0)1924 412488             e-mail: [email protected]  +,          -'# ./      !"#$% &&'($( www.play-rite.co.uk

O Q O I P S

RUBB BUILDINGS LTD Surfaces and Dukesway, Gateshead Tel: 01889 569569 equipment for sport, Tyne & Wear NE11OQE Fax: 01889 569555 play and leisure. SPORTS SURFACES (UK) LTD Tel: 01914822211 P O Box 1010, CHESTER, CH1 3WN Fax: 01914822516 Dovefi elds, Dovefi elds Industrial Estate, Uttoxeter, ST14 8HY. Tel: 01858 545789 Tel: 01244 321200 Fax: 01244 347735 Emial: [email protected] Fax: 01858 545890 E Mail: [email protected] www.rubb.com www.spaciotempo.com e-mail: [email protected] Web Site: www.sportssurfacesuk.com

L L I O O P

SPORTS AND  * ATHLETICS ** EQUIPMENT * 2, rue de l'Egalité, 92748 Nanterre Cedex, France SUPPLIER S T EELWAY   Tel: +33 (0) 1 41 20 45 05 tel: 01353 668686 fax: 01353 669444   *   Fax: +33 (0) 1 41 20 47 66 Fensecure   *   Email: [email protected] www.stadia-sports.co.uk %!% "%'$#' (((%&!()#' www.tarkett-sports.com

I J L O

Thorn Lighting, UNIVERSAL SERVICES Elstree Way, Beckingham Business Park, Borehamwood Tolleshunt Major, Maldon, Hertfordshire WD6 1FE    Essex CM9 8LZ tel:+44 (0)8702 400 700 Tel: 0208 732 9800 Fax: 0208 732 1911 Tel: 01621 868700 Fax: 01621 860697 Email: [email protected] [email protected] www.technicalsurfaces.co.uk www.thornlighting.co.uk www.universalservicesuk.co.uk

O K O I

Guaranteed sport Wright & Maclennan Ltd SPORTS, SECURITY, pleasure throughout Camps Industrial Estate the year. LEISURE, PERIMETER: Kirknewton, Midlothian, EH27 8DF FENCING TAILORED TO Contact us for your free consultation T: 01506 881486 F: 01506 883669 MEET ALL YOUR NEEDS Cleaning, marking and lining of sports surfaces E: [email protected] [email protected] Tel: 01342 311155 Fax: 01342 311156 Tel: 01902 796696 Fax: 01902 796698 www.veldemangroup.be www.white-line-services.com www.wrightandmaclennan.co.uk [email protected] www.zaun.co.uk

L I P S J J

To book your advertisement in the SAPCA directory call Nadeem on +44 (0)1462 471902 email [email protected]

Issue 4 2009 © cybertrek 2009 Read Sports Management online sportsmanagement.co.uk/digital 79 DIRECTORY sports management directory Be seen by over 5,500 active buyers in the most exciting full colour buyer’s guide in the sports industry. Call the Sports Management team now on +44 (0)1462 471902 or email [email protected]

construction & surfacing consultants of sports facilities

www.strategicleisure.co.uk Making your vision For expert advice or a free ... Reality brochure: Tel: 01902 796 696 [email protected]

Services include: • Strategic Planning • Feasibility Studies indoor flooring Contact us to discuss your • Greenspace/PPG17 computer membership needs and requirements: • Facility Strategies software t: 01925 855 550 • Procurement f: 01925 858 769 • Funding Bids e: [email protected] • Interim Management

UʘÃÌ>>̈œ˜ÊEÊ,ivÕÀLˆÃ “i˜Ì UÊ->˜`ˆ˜}ÊEÊ-i>ˆ˜}Ê UÊ,i«>ˆÀÊÊUÊ i>˜ˆ˜}Ê consultants exercise equipment UÊ >ˆ˜Ìi˜>˜ViÊ*Àœ}À>“ÃÊ Uʈ˜iÊ >ÀŽˆ˜} UÊi˜iÀ>Ê i>˜ˆ˜}ÊEÊÊ     ÊÊ >ˆ˜Ìi˜>˜ViÊ*Àœ`ÕVÌà Tel: 01477 544 149     Interior Email: [email protected] www.franciscoatings.co.uk    Solutions    Indoor/Outdoor Surface Line      INTERIOR DESIGN & PROJECT MANAGEMENT RECEPTIONS LOUNGES CAFES BARS Marking & Maintenance

CAINE GROVE FIVE OAK LANE STAPLEHURST KENT TN12 0HT computer software TEL; 01580 890123 FAX: 01580 893626

www.interior-solutions.co.uk [email protected] CONTACT: ROY ROBERTS SOFTWARE SPECIALISTS FOR THE HEALTH AND FITNESS INDUSTRY For a complete Member Experience

7EBSITEDESIGNs% COMMERCESOLUTIONSs#2-SYSTEMS Equipment · Entertainment · Technology · Services $ESKTOPSOFTWAREs"USINESSSOLUTIONSs"ESPOKESOLUTIONS Cleaning, lining www.optimumfitness.biz and resurfacing info@optimumfitness.biz 01634 883 444 of sports surfaces

Tel: 01276 404900, Email: [email protected] Tel: 44 (0)1342 311155 www.precor.com Book your advert Fax: 44 (0)1342 311156 Email: [email protected] on our website www.white-line-services.com and be seen by over 14,000 buyers fencing manufacturers and supplier every month. indoor sports flooring

to book your No matter what the size or shape! advert in the sports management directory The premier sports Call the Sales Team Today fl oor solution to Discuss Your Booking Call Nadeem on Made to measure sports and security T: 01454 773 666 fences by JB Corrie & Co Ltd. www.4runnerltd.co.uk 01462 431385 +44 (0)1462 In partnership with 471902 T: 01730 237100 F: 01730 264915 www.mondosport.co.uk www.sportsmanagement.co.uk www.jbcorrie.co.uk www.altro.com

80 Read Sports Management online sportsmanagement.co.uk/digital Issue 4 2009 © cybertrek 2009 service & maintenance sports equipment suppliers sports flooring & manufacturers

The leading manufacturer The Nationwide Sports Hall floor of netting, posts & sports refurbishment specialists Tel: (01684) 567504 Fax: (01684) 563101 ground equipment Email: [email protected] www.peterdorrell.co.uk

Tel 01502 583515 All round www.harrod.uk.com Sports Hall Fully compliant with EN14904. flooring solutions 0845 4022 456 0845 4022 456 t: +44(0)1926 401500 e: [email protected] www.gerflor.co.uk indoor sports halls/temporary scoreboards & timing or prefabricated structures systems RYAN LEISURE ACTIVITIES LTD Specialists in sports & leisure facilities maintenance CONTACT US: SPORTS AND ATHLETICS 01483 771777 EQUIPMENT SUPPLIER [email protected] tel: 01353 668686 www.ryanleisure.co.uk fax: 01353 669444 GET UNDERCOVER With a CopriSystems sports dome - www.stadia-sports.co.uk for year round protection from the weather Tel: 01794 301 000 Fax: 01794 301 342 Daktronics UK, specialists in scoreboards, timing systems and LED Displays

Daktronics UK Ltd. +44 (0) 1454 413606 www.daktronics.co.uk

www.coprisystems.com

LED Monochrome and Video Displays Sports Scoreboards Timing Systems Photofinish Consultancy sports ground construction

Practice Made Perfect Tel: 0845 337 2474 Fax: 02380 274521 Tel: 0800 3891490 email: [email protected] Natural & Synthetic www.swisstiming.co.uk Sports Pitch Design - Construction sports exhibitions/events Renovation - Drainage - Maintenance

www.summitstructures.com sports buildings

to book your SPORTS HALLS advert in the sports management directory Call Nadeem on +44 (0)1462 the brighter choice! Tel: 01256 880488 Tel 01995 606451 Email: [email protected] 471902 www.collinson.co.uk www.kestrelcontractors.co.uk

Issue 4 2009 © cybertrek 2009 Read Sports Management online sportsmanagement.co.uk/digital 81 DIRECTORY

sports surface maintenance sports lighting surface coatings

BRITANNIA PAINTS t t THE No.1 RANGE OF COATINGS FOR SPORTS SURFACES

Tel: 01606 834015 Fax: 01606 837006 Unit 7/8 King Street Trading Estate, Middlwich, Cheshire CW10 9LF www.britanniapaints.co.uk The Ball is in Your Court!

synthetic sports surfaces

Tel: 01623 511111 Fax: 01623 552133 Email: [email protected]

Picture courtesy of Cheshire County

www.abacuslighting.com

Tel: 01491 827810 Fax: 01491 827830 www.mcardle-astroturf.co.uk

Tel: 01920 860600 tennis Court Construction & Maintenance Fax: 01920 485915 Email: [email protected] www.cuphosco.com

Specialists in Tennis Court Sports Surfaces Construction & Maintenance for Local authorities, Councils, Schools, Tennis Clubs & the Private Sector TOP DRESSING 01727 730707 OVER SEEDING www.sportscourts.co.uk tel:// +44 (0)8702 400 700 DE-COMPACTION VERTIDRAINING http:// www.technicalsurfaces.co.uk GROUND BREAKING AGRIPOWER LANDSCAPING

SPECIALISTS IN ALL ASPECTS OF SPORTSTURF CONSTRUCTION NATURAL AND SYNTHETIC SURFACES wet leisure play products health & fitness DRAINAGE AND MAINTENANCE leisure-kit.net TEL: 01494 866776 leisure FAX: 01494 866779 www.agripower.co.uk Now over The website, email and search engine for leisure buyers [email protected] sport 5,000 leisure suppliers listed on our Visit leisure-kit.net for the spa NEW improved search latest news about products A good grounding in sport and services for the leisure hospitality industry and subscribe to the FREE fortnightly product report attractions UÊHigh quality sports turf systems To advertise your product and theme parks UÊStandard products to unique engineered systems reach over 20,000 leisure buyers UÊExtensive research and development program call now on +44 (0)1462 431385 or email UÊTechnology protected by patents and trademarks museums Hippo Leisure Products Ltd, Unit 18, Estover [email protected] UÊReal innovations Road, Estover, Plymouth PL6 7PY T +44 1204 384483 F +44 1204 384487 Tel: +44 (0) 1752 313075 E: [email protected] subscribe online at www.leisuresubs.com or call +44 (0)1462 431385 www.greenfi elds.eu W: www.hippoleisure.com

82 Read Sports Management online sportsmanagement.co.uk/digital Issue 4 2009 © cybertrek 2009 powered by leisurediary.com

DIARY DATES Worldwide events listings for leisure professionals

10 NOVEMBER 2009 24 NOVEMBER 2009 Sports Event Management (SEM) SAPCA Sports Facility Construction Novotel, St Pancras, London Exhibition and Seminar Event Now in its fourth year, this event Twickenham, London is the major annual meeting for This one-day event offers a comprehen- ADVERTISERS INDEX Local Organising Committees, sive seminar programme that includes a International Federations and special focus on the provision of space Abacus Lighting 73 leading fi gures in the sports event for PE and sport within the education AMB Sports 44 management industry. sector, in particular the Building Schools BIGGA 25 Tel +44 (0)1264 852016 for the Future programme. British Seed Houses 25 www.sportseventmanagement.com Tel +44 (0)24 7641 6316 Charles Lawrence Surfaces 31 www.sapca.org.uk Collinson 37 11-12 NOVEMBER 2009 Concept 2 13 ISRM Conference and Exhibition 8 DECEMBER 2009 Conica Sports Surfaces/BASF 61 Alton Towers Resort, Staffordshire UK Coaching Awards 2009 Copri Systems 43 In this tough ‘credit-crunched’ Old Billingsgate, London CU Phosco Lighting 70 environment, this conference presents A presentation to honour coaches Gerfl or 57 a unique opportunity for delegates who have achieved outstanding Greenfi elds (Sports Surfaces) UK 47 to focus on the key issues affecting success over the past 12 months. the sports industry, explore new ideas Tel +44 (0)113 204 3518 Harrod UK 33 and listen to creative and innovative www.sportscoachuk.org Hippo Leisure IFC solutions from expert speakers. HS Sports 51 Tel +44 (0)1509 226474 18 JANUARY 2010 JB Corrie 31/34 Email [email protected] SAPCA Annual Conference 2010 Jordan Leisure 60 www.isrm.co.uk The Holiday Inn, Stratford-upon-Avon Kal Tech 20 This conference and annual dinner McArdle Sport-Tec 47 12 NOVEMBER 2009 is open to all SAPCA members and Mark Harrod 31 BISL Annual Conference invited guests. Mondo Sport/4Runner 59 Lord’s Cricket Ground, London Tel +44 (0)24 7641 6316 Musco Lighting 33 Aimed at the leisure, gaming, sport www.sapca.org.uk O’Brien Contractors 44 and hospitality sectors, conference at- Replay Maintenance 47 tendees are promised a day that will 19-21 JANUARY 2010 get them thinking about how to ride Harrogate Week Rubb Building Systems 40 out the recession and to start planning Harrogate International Centre Servochem 21 for future growth. Keynote speakers This BIGGA-organised event offers visi- Sports Coatings 37 will include Minister for Sport Gerry tors an unrivalled opportunity to gather Sports Courts 37 Sutcliffe, MP and Magnus Sheving the latest information, to improve their Sport Industry Research Centre 70 – who, as creator of television pro- education and to network with col- Sports Surfaces UK 59 gramme Lazy Town has created a world- leagues from around the world. Swimming Teachers Association 20 wide health-focused brand for kids. Tel +44 (0)1347 833800 Stadia Sports 51 Tel +44 (0)20 8255 3782 Email [email protected] Summit Structures 39 www.bisl.org.uk www.bigga.co.uk Swimming Teachers’ Association 20 Swiss Timing BC 17-18 NOVEMBER 2009 10-11 FEBRUARY 2010 TACT Enviro 59 National Sports Development Seminar Sports College Conference Ponds Forge, Sheffi eld International Centre, Telford TaiSport 11 This ISPAL event will provide best prac- This conference will look towards the Technical Surfaces 51 tice examples of how to use the Olympic journey to 2012 and beyond. Celebrat- The Event Show 20 platform to widen sporting opportuni- ing the achievement of having more Thorn Lighting 70 ties in your region or local community. than 500 schools with a sport specialism TrioPlus 37 Key speakers, group discussion and at the heart of 450 School Sport Part- Trocellen GmbH 49 debate will provide practical support nerships, the conference will showcase UK Athletics 65 and industry updates that will be key to the best of the schools’ work, with both White Line Services Int’l 54 managing and delivering sports devel- inspiration and ideas about how to Zaun Fencing 40 opment in the UK. Excellent network- maximise learning and achievement for ing opportunities will also be at the young people in the new education and forefront of the programme. sporting landscape. sport-kit.net Tel +44 (0)118 929 8355 Tel: +44 (0)1509 226600 Email [email protected] Email [email protected] For more information on our advertisers’ www.ispal.org.uk www.youthsporttrust.org products log on to www.sport-kit.net

Issue 4 2009 © cybertrek 2009 Read Sports Management online sportsmanagement.co.uk/digital 83