the magazine for stakeholders

GLASGOW 2014: GRASSROOTS TO GLORY! 6 16

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22 30 Rob Eyton- Photography, Photography: 2014, , Alan Richardson JSH Pix, Alastair Devine, Stuart Gray and Getty Images Photography, David McIntyre Jones Photography, CONTENTS 3 Scots Sweep Up 14 Playing the 26 Ready, study, go in Sochi numbers game Scotland’s and World class performances and the Scottish economy are brimming with Winning Students at Sochi 2014 16 Ten years of 28 Empowering 4 Getting the legacy Active Schools performance you plan for Celebrating ten years of supporting The role of Performance Lifestyle What is a sporting legacy? young people with sporting opportunities 18 The team within 30 Ready for the Relay 6 Accelerating to sportscotland is ready as the the team Queen’s Baton makes the final world class The team that helps it all happen sportscotland’s contribution leg of its journey to Games and Legacy 20 The inside track An extraordinary story from 32 Be the Games… 8 Something for everyone Meggan Dawson-Farrell Lots of ways to become part of Games The many faces of volunteers history and celebrations in Scotland 22 Team Scotland Commonwealth Games Scotland 34 Snatching success 10 Spreading the 2014 word present the ‘ones to watch’ in Glasgow Two local authorities set on maximising in Glasgow 2014 We talk with weightlifter Peter Kirkbride the local benefit of Glasgow 2014 24 Weaving in history 36 Raising the bar 12 What the panel did next The design of the Team Scotland The lowdown on the Coaching Members of the Young people’s sport is unveiled Matters programme panel tell us their highlights

© sportscotland 2014. Published by sportscotland. ISSN number: 2047-9549-SF 04 14 3M Working closely with our partners in the Community sport is benefitting , National Lottery, tremendously from our community sport local authorities, , and clubs, we hubs programme. There are already 126 are already delivering a lasting sporting hubs operating the length and breadth of legacy from hosting Scotland’s largest Scotland and we currently have plans for ever multi sport event. 167 to operate across all 32 of Scotland’s We are using Glasgow 2014 as a catalyst local authorities by 2016. A key strength to accelerate our plans to implement a of the hubs is that they are each tailored world class sporting system at every level, to meet the requirements of the local and it is an opportunity we are determined area they serve and provide people of all to fully capitalise on. ages and abilities with the opportunity to take part in a wide range of sports and Although multifaceted, our legacy physical activities. ambitions can be summarised by two fundamental objectives: to improve and Added to all of this is a significant elcome to the twelfth develop Scotland’s high performance investment into club sport and regional edition of Sport First system and community sport. development posts for sports, which Wand the first in 2014 - has now created a strong pathway from a year that promises to be the Thanks to increased investment from the school to club to performance sport. most exciting in the history Scottish Government and the National of Scottish sport. Lottery, Scottish athletes are receiving The next edition of Sport First is outstanding levels of support from our scheduled for publication ahead of 2014 got off to a phenomenal start in Sochi experts, coaches, and practitioners at the Games and will naturally focus on with some terrific performances from our the institute. Coupled with the dedication Glasgow 2014. athletes, supported by twelve sportscotland of the athletes and sports, this means It is a truly wonderful time to be involved institute of sport experts out in Russia, that our athletes will be the best ever in Scottish sport and I hope our which is a terrific endorsement of the prepared Team Scotland to compete at excitement is conveyed to you in this capabilities of our high performance team. the Commonwealth Games. edition of the magazine. This is not only an incredibly significant year This is why we are confident that for Scottish sport, but also in the autumn the target set by Commonwealth Scotland will vote on its constitutional future. Games Scotland, in conjunction with sportscotland will be ready to ensure that sportscotland, to improve upon our our sporting structure is sophisticated and previous highest ever medal tally of 33, robust, however the people of Scotland vote will be realised at Glasgow. Stewart Harris in September’s referendum. Chief Executive, sportscotland

sportscotland documents are available in a range of formats and languages. Contact us for more information: Tel: 0141 534 6500 Fax: 0141 534 6501 Web: www.sportscotland.org.uk Address: Doges, Templeton on the Green, 62 Templeton Street, Glasgow G40 1DA

The sportscotland group is made up of sportscotland and the sportscotland Trust Company (national centres).

www.nationalcentrecumbrae.org.uk www.glenmorelodge.org.uk www.nationalcentreinverclyde.org.uk www.sisport.com

| 01 sportscotland.org.uk nationalagencyforsport @sportscotland

Thanks to Glasgow 2014, sportscotland is accelerating its plans for WINS a world class sporting system at all levels. We are supporting and developing community sport hubs across Scotland. This means more and better opportunities to get involved in sport. Scots Sweep Up in Sochi Congratulations to the Scottish Olympians and Paralympians on delivering world class performances at Sochi 2014.

4% of Te s 3 am te G le B h t sportscotland and a its partners continue

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s to make an important i

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o c performance sports

S system in the UK MEDALS WON 1 silver 2 bronze

www.sisport.com

| 03 GETTING THE LEGACY YOU PLAN

What is a sporting legacy, and FOR how is it secured? As we enter the home straight in the race to Glasgow 2014, sportscotland’s Head of Strategy Mary Allison looks at the evidence around the impact of sporting events and discusses how long term planning and commitment are the keys to unlocking the potential of events like the Commonwealth Games.

04 | GETTING THE LEGACY YOU PLAN FOR

Around the world, across decades of major international events there are three claims commonly made about what major sports events do for sport. First, that watching elite athletes inspires others to take part, this is known as ‘the demonstration effect’. Second, that there is a general desire to get involved or associated with the event in some way and that could include taking part in community sport, known as ‘the festival effect’. Third, the more diffuse claim of a ‘feel good factor’ which may make people more interested as a result of having a generally more positive outlook on sport.

But when it comes to defining and Clear roles and responsibilities across Those ingredients of a successful legacy evidencing the long term effects of organisations are essential: this could – long term focus, strong partnerships, hosting major sporting events, the facts include encouragement of grassroots- community engagement – are central to are less clear. Here’s what the Scottish level participation in sport and cultural our two key legacy commitments around Government’s ‘Review of Evidence on programmes, as well as allowing the sustainable community sport and the the Legacy from Large-Scale Sporting community to be part of the planning and high performance sport infrastructure. Events’ tells us about these and broader delivery of programmes The two weeks of competition later this legacy outcomes: The concept of a ‘legacy’ has been at the summer will be an important milestone in The amount of robust evidence on heart of planning for both 2012 the development of these programmes. legacy from past large scale sporting and Glasgow 2014 and our programmes The high performance system will come events is limited and varies in quality are more comprehensive than past to the fore as Team Scotland competes and rigour events. And while that’s no guarantee of during the Games. And community sport There is a lack of long term success, we are in a stronger position hubs will be an important feature of both assessment of legacy than previous Games. the Queen’s Baton Relay and in the In 2009, the Scottish Government immediate aftermath of the Games, when Some studies show increases in the attention inevitably turns to legacy. economic growth and employment, and a range of partners developed a however many rely on estimates and Scotland wide Games legacy plan to However both of these commitments short term post event assessments realise a vision to ‘host a successful, are long term aspirations which require safe and secure Commonwealth Games a continued commitment that goes The evidence for increases in physical that delivers a lasting legacy for the beyond 2014. And it is critical that we’re activity is very limited and many of the whole of Scotland and maximises the able to understand – through robust studies in this area have been low quality opportunities before, during and after evidence – the positive outcomes that So the truth is that there is little evidence the Games in 2014’. these programmes are having in order to suggest that simply hosting a major This set out a collective ambition for a 10 to demonstrate impact and improve sporting event like an Olympics or year period to 2019 and has four legacy planning into the future. Commonwealth Games leads to positive themes: Flourishing, Active, Connected and If we can achieve that, the Commonwealth outcomes for a country. But does that Sustainable. A sustainable legacy for sport Games in Glasgow can leave a fitting mean the Games can’t make a lasting falls under the broader ‘Active’ outcomes. legacy for generations to come. difference to a host country? No, but the evidence tells us it does need What does ‘a sustainable legacy for careful consideration: sport’ mean for sportscotland? Quite simply it means accelerating our With thanks to Elinor Ore at the Scottish Long term legacy needs to be carefully Government, author of ‘Legacy from Past plans to develop and support a world planned and implemented with a focus Sporting Events, Review of the Evidence’ on the processes and steps that lead to class sporting system at all levels. positive outcomes The sporting system in Scotland needs to A long term perspective is essential: support our athletes, young people and www.legacy2014.co.uk things like infrastructure need to be built communities to get involved and develop in with lasting use as the priority sport as a result of these Games.

| 05 Accelerating

to world class

The Glasgow will be Scotland’s biggest sporting event in a generation. But the Games are about so much more than two weeks of competition in the summer; they’re a chance for all of us involved in sport to aim , achieve more and make a lasting difference to our athletes, coaches and communities for years to come. We take a look at how the national agency is using the profile of the Games to accelerate our plans towards a world class sporting system at all levels.

06 | Making a lasting difference – our legacy commitments

Sustainable community sport As well as bringing the local community To date, 126 community sport hubs have together, hubs also provide information, been set up across Scotland, and we Community sport hubs are a key support and advice on a wide range have plans in place for another 41 to be component of sportscotland’s contribution of sports and physical activities to make it set-up by the end of 2016, exceeding the to the Scottish Government’s 2014 legacy easier for people to get involved and engage original target of 150. plan. They are designed to increase the in a more active and healthier lifestyle. number of people participating in sport Additionally, thanks to the Legacy across local communities in Scotland, by 2014 Active Places Fund, we are also bringing people together and providing a supporting local projects right across home for local sport clubs. Scotland, from skate parks to walking routes and everything in between. The An annual budget of £1.5 million National £10m programme supports the Scottish Lottery funding is being allocated on Government’s legacy ambitions to a geographical basis to develop hubs encourage more people to be active and according to local needs and resources – take part in sport, with grants of between each one is different and they are based in a £10,000 and £100,000 available for a very variety of settings; sport centres, community wide range of community led projects. centres, schools or the natural environment.

High performance infrastructure Over the last 20 years, Scottish Government than ever before, this investment is and National Lottery investment has readying the sports for the anticipated sportscotland’s investment into the changed the face of sport in Scotland. membership rises and demands as institute of sport network in the lead up Thanks to this funding, Scottish athletes a consequence of Glasgow 2014. to the Glasgow Games has ensured - whether based in Scotland or as part of Through Mission Glasgow 2014 we that high performance sport has better GB programmes - now receive some of the are ensuring that the 17 sports have structures and support than ever before. best support in the world. During 2011-15 a clear performance plan in place for our investment into the 17 Commonwealth Heading into new Olympic, Paralympic and the Games. The planning framework Games sports increased by 23.46 per cent Commonwealth cycles, our experts at the established through this programme will to over £38 million compared to 2007-11. institute of sport will continue to work with continue into future cycles, providing sports and athletes to ensure we build on the As well as ensuring that the athletes in a clear methodology for major Games momentum generated by the home Games. Team Scotland will be better prepared preparation.

Supporting the Games

High performance expertise: Performance coaching: supporting a that will feature in 2014, including sportscotland institute of sport experts range of programmes, including Coaching Commonwealth Games Scotland, since support all 17 Games sports and their Matters and the Inspire programme. Glasgow won the Games bid in 2007. athletes across a range of disciplines. SAPAs: providing financial support of World class facilities: investing over Mission Glasgow 2014: performance £3,000, £5,000 or £10,000 to potential £30m into facilities that will be used programme focused on supporting the 17 medal-winning athletes for Glasgow 2014. during the Games. This includes our Commonwealth Games sports towards Team Scotland: investing almost £50m single biggest award of £15m into the a successful Scottish performance at the in the governing bodies of the sports Emirates Arena. 2014 Games.

Inspiring & motivating

Active Schools: delivering a broad Lead 2014: conference programme range of activities and programmes that helps develop and enhance designed to motivate and inspire young young people’s leadership and people to get involved in sport up to volunteering skills, while raising the and beyond Glasgow 2014. profile of Glasgow 2014.

Support a 2nd Team: programme of Celebrate fund: investing £1m events to engage the cultures of the National Lottery funding into helping Commonwealth and further develop communities celebrate the 2014 with Commonwealth countries. Commonwealth Games. ICCE Global Coaches House: working Volunteering: Volunteer Scotland is with partners to support this extensive working with sportscotland and our local www.sportscotland.org.uk/ programme of world class seminars, partners to direct the 50,000 Clyde-sider games lectures, presentations and discussions applicants to continue their involvement for coaches. in sport after the Games.

| 07 SOMETHING FOR EVERYONE; THE MANY FACES OF VOLUNTEERS

Sarah and Lorna Halley

Sarah and Lorna Halley, twins from Fife, have been involved Lorna explains what’s involved; “Essentially it’s about making in since primary school and were encouraged to either an ‘in’ or ‘out’ call depending on where the shuttle attend coaching sessions after showing promise in the sport. lands. As the top players can smash the shuttle faster than 200 mph this requires a great deal of concentration at all They have played for numerous clubs and in the last times. It is the line judge’s job to communicate the line call three years decided to take up volunteering in the to the umpire, players and spectators, so it is very important sport after seeing line judge opportunities arise with to make clear decisive calls – no pressure!” BADMINTONscotland. BADMINTONscotland, through the grants given through The twins made such great progress as line judges that the programme, have been able to support them both in they are now part of the Glasgow 2014 technical officials their volunteering journey to the top, for which they are both programme supported by sportscotland and Glasgow 2014. extremely grateful. This programme has helped develop Scottish technical officials in a range of sports to officiate in the Games, which Volunteering has become an important part of their lives and they are both looking forward to, as Sarah explains; “Being they frequently take annual leave from work and give up their part of the technical officials programme is an amazing free time to take part. Sarah tells us “Volunteering is a unique opportunity. This is the first Commonwealth Games to be way to not only be involved in sport, but to watch your favourite held in Scotland in our lifetime. Therefore we feel privileged sport from the heart of the action. Without volunteers, major to have been selected as line judges for the whole event.” Scottish badminton events would not take place.”

08 | During London 2012, the Gamesmakers made the headlines for their instrumental role in the success of SOMETHING FOR EVERYONE; the Olympic and Paralympic Games. However for many people up and down the country, volunteering in sport has been a major part of their lives for many years. These volunteers work tirelessly and without them and their varied roles, we wouldn’t have so many opportunities to get involved in sport. Here three volunteers, who dedicate their time on a daily basis, tell us how much hard work really goes in to making it happen.

Gavin Cruikshanks

By most people’s standards, Gavin’s to do list is eye “I’m qualified in finance, so it’s my way of giving back. watering. On top of his full time role at his local petrol station, Hockey has given me the best experiences and opportunities he’s the club treasurer at Grove Menzieshill hockey club in – whether it’s the friends I’ve made through my local club or Dundee. In between work and managing the books, he’s the opportunities to umpire at the Youth Olympic Festival in usually coaching youth hockey for Dundee City Council or Australia and the European U21 championships next year – taking every opportunity he can to develop his skills as an so it’s good to be able to put something back in to make sure international standard hockey umpire. others have the same chances I have had.” “After I finish my day job, I will do something hockey related every day, and each day will involve some sort of task related to the club’s finances – whether it’s collecting fees from players, banking money, answering questions, and generally keeping things organised.” Being club treasurer isn’t perhaps the most glamorous of roles, so what’s in it for Gavin? “Most people involved in the club do their bit. And when I started playing hockey back at secondary school, I had a great experience thanks to various volunteers – from the teachers who took us on a trip to Holland, through to the people who gave up their time to run this club, which I joined in my early teens.

olunteers come from all walks of life. And as you can see from the case studies, volunteers’ collective efforts in many different types of roles really do make sport happen. It’s hugely encouraging that the campaign to recruit Clyde-siders V– the volunteers for this year’s Commonwealth Games – attracted around 50,000 applications. Some will already be active volunteers in sport, just like those individuals we’ve profiled here; others will be completely new to the opportunity. So, alongside our colleagues at Volunteer Scotland, sportscotland is working to understand the needs of those who took part in that application process. And we will support our local partners in harnessing the interest and enthusiasm of those applicants who are new to volunteering in sport and help direct it into becoming a life long involvement.

www.sportscotland.org.uk/volunteering

| 09 SPREADING THE 2014 WORD 2014 is finally here and Scotland’s 32 local authorities are making the most of the opportunities this exciting year in sport will present. We caught up with two local authorities set on maximising the local benefit of Glasgow 2014, to find out more about their plans for the year.

10 | Active Games programme, and Galloway Active Games is an annual sporting event which the local authority has been working hard to grow and develop in the run up to the Games. In 2013 the final event included 510 children representing primary schools from across the region, competing as one of 16 different Commonwealth nations. Young people got involved in pre-Games activities across Dumfries and Galloway, taking part in taster and coaching sessions and competing in new region- wide heats and qualifying events. Local clubs supported the Active Schools and Community Sport team in delivering the programme, and the event is a key SPREADING THE legacy initiative with funding support Queen’s Baton Relay provided by EventScotland and a number of local sponsors. The Queen’s Baton Relay (QBR) comes to North Lanarkshire on Monday 23 The focus for 2014 is widening the range 2014 WORD of sports available, linked closely to the June 2014 with the baton stopping at five schools to give pupils and staff a sports on display at the Glasgow Games. once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to get It’s hoped the Active Games can be a involved and be a part of the build-up to catalyst across the region, aiming to the Games. make the most of the ‘bounce’ effect of Glasgow 2014 and encourage more To make the most of the QBR, sports Support a 2nd Team young people to make the transition from events will be running during the school Dumfries and Galloway has partnered PE and school sport to club sport. day in four schools and an after-school with Northern Ireland and Grenada as event will be held in a fifth school. part of the sportscotland led programme, North Lanarkshire, a host The baton will also stop at a range Support a 2nd Team. venue location of other local landmarks, including This partnership with Northern Ireland Ravenscraig Regional Sports Centre, North Lanarkshire is incredibly proud to and their Commonwealth Games where a celebration event is being be a host venue for the Commonwealth Council was confirmed at the Active planned with a large number of pupils. Games and is delighted to be involved Games in September 2013, when a civic At Summerlee Museum of Scottish in the recruitment and deployment of presentation was given as part of the Industrial Life, the baton will be carried volunteers for the triathlon event at day’s events. around using different modes of Strathclyde Park on 24 and 26 July. transport from past and present. The Thirty young leaders and teachers from So far, 200 volunteers have been baton’s last stop will be an evening Belfast supported the 2013 Active Games recruited to offer a fantastic Games celebration at Strathclyde Park – a fitting event and a return leg is planned with experience. And hopefully their climax at the Games’ triathlon venue. Team D&G travelling to Northern Ireland in services and skills can be retained May. The event will see young people from to support local sport in the future. Further south, excitement is building different communities in Belfast participate in Dumfries and Galloway (D&G). As well as hosting the triathlon, the and compete with the young athletes from Community engagement groups local authority is also delighted that Dumfries and Galloway. have been developed in four areas to the cycle time trial passes through the deliver the Games for Scotland event North Lanarkshire is supporting Malaysia community. Chryston High School, programme, recruit volunteer stewards and the Cook Islands and has set up a one of 10 community sport hubs in and promote Queen’s Baton Relay programme to make links to these two the area, is planning a special event activity. These groups have been countries through local schools. for the community to help get people established by Active Schools and The schools in the Cook Islands have a involved, enabling locals to see a major the Community Sport Network, which direct link to a school in North Lanarkshire international event on their doorstep. include the four community sport hubs in to give the pupils opportunities to share the area. experiences and cultures. In addition, other By working in partnership with schools schools have a programme of “challenges” the local authority is looking to utilise the that are set up to create awareness and skills of Lead 2014 participants to deliver build relationships with Malaysia and the the Games for Scotland programme Cook Islands. across the region. Links have also been www.northlanarkshire.gov.uk established with Northern Ireland, and a delegation of young people from Belfast will be part of the region’s relay www.dumgal.gov.uk celebrations. | 11 What the panel did next…

sportscotland believe that young and to shape decision making. The Working to influence and shape the people have an important role to panel, and our other work with young future of sport, and raise its profile, play in developing and supporting people, represents an investment in the panel have had some amazing a world class sporting system. our future leaders: providing a lasting experiences, meeting world leaders, With partners, through a range of legacy of confident, knowledgeable shaping programmes and attending programmes, we have provided and experienced young people who events around the globe. We asked some great opportunities for young throughout their life in sport will some of our current sport panel what people to influence and lead in sport strengthen the sporting system. they felt their highlights have been in Scotland. The Young people’s over the past 19 months, and After an incredible two years, our first sport panel is central to this and this is what they said… ever Young people’s sport panel is provides a voice for young people getting ready to make way for a new in sport - for their views to be heard generation of young leaders in sport.

Colin Millar (24) My proudest achievement while being part of the #sportpanel has been the delivery of the Young Hub Leaders and School Sport Awards. Both will have a significant impact on every community in Scotland, developing leadership qualities in young people and encouraging development of quality sport provision to young people in schools and community sport hubs.

Katie Clucas (25) I genuinely believe that the #sportpanel has given me the confidence, motivation and belief to progress in my career in sport. It has reinforced my passion to make a difference and inspire young people to engage in sport and physical activity. I have absolutely loved encouraging other young people to take up this opportunity Back row (L-R): Collin Millar, Kulbir Gabba, Chris Sellar, Connor Hughes, Adam Martin, Jodi McGinty and get the experience of a lifetime. Front row (L-R): Catriona Thomson, Katie Clucas, John Robertson, Nathan Arbuckle, Meghan Plummer, Sophie Gibson, Hannah Jolly Not present: Amy Harper, Morven MacGregor, Matt McCormick

Nathan Arbuckle (17) Meghan Plummer (18) Jodi McGinty (20)

Being part of the #sportpanel Being involved in the #sportpanel Being part of the #sportpanel meant has changed me as a person. has meant that I have had some that I have been able to get a job My confidence has grown and so great opportunities to meet some in disability sport with has my personality thanks to the very influential and inspirational Leisure. The skills and experiences experiences I have had, the events people such as representatives of the I have gained through being part of I have been involved in, and the Commonwealth Secretariat at the the panel played a big part in giving people I have met. Commonwealth Sports Development me the confidence to go for the job. Conference and Olympic athletes.

12 | What the panel did next…

Matt McCormack (16) Morven MacGregor (18) Connor Hughes (19) Travelling to Doha, Qatar would have My proudest achievement while being A highlight of being part of the to be my proudest moment while on the #sportpanel has been taking #sportpanel for me has to be the being on the #sportpanel. The trip part in the Lead 2014 event in 2013. Scotland’s sporting workforce event allowed me to influence sport on I spoke in front of a group of PE that was held at The Emirates Arena a global scale as well as to speak teachers as well as Active Schools – I was lucky enough to open the to people from other countries and coordinators about the opportunities event as well as host a section of understand their challenges. I have been given as a result of my the day. sporting experience. I hope that this inspired them to help create similar opportunities for children in their schools.

Adam Martin (23)

My highlight of being part of the #sportpanel has been shaping the future of community sport hubs through the creation and development of the Young Hub Leaders project. It’s a fresh new approach to involving young people at all stages of the sport decision making process at club level.

Hannah Jolly (19) My proudest achievement while being a member of the #sportpanel has been the role we have played in the development of the Youth Sport Strategy and how much our opinions and views have been respected and taken on board by Parliament.

Chris Sellar (25)

Being part of the #sportpanel has meant that I have been able to share my knowledge and confidence and provide similar opportunities to a We are currently in the process of recruiting our next Young group of young people within the people’s sport panel and hope to introduce them to you in community sport hub where I work. our next issue.

www.sportscotland.org.uk/ypsp

twitter #sportpanel | 13 Playing the numbers game

When it comes to boosting the Scottish economy, sport is playing the game. Sport has the power to inspire and encourage people, while also providing jobs and boosting business; supporting our economy and society as a whole.

14 | ECONOMIC IMPACT (GVA) Y ON

ON GVA* higher than other UTI ILLI leisure related industries

£1.8 TLAND’S £2 B

including telecommunications O ONOM SC

and accommodation NTRIB

BILLION CO TO EC 1.9% OF TOTAL GVA CREATIVE , MANUFACTURE ARTS & OF COMPUTER TELE- SPORT ENTERTAINMENT PUBLISHING ELECTRONICS ACCOMMODATION COMMUNICATIONS (SIRC) 0 IN SCOTLAND *GVA (Gross Value Added) is used to calculate the value to the economy. It is the sum of wages and prots generated within the sector.

MOUNTAIN BIKING PREDICTED TO BE WORTH MORE THAN GVA for £155M TO THE ECONOMY alone £155M estimated to be: 123m

EMPLOYMENT 46,300 FULL TIME SPORT RELATED JOBS 2% 22% 25% OF ALL JOBS increase since 1998 increase in percentage in absolute terms of Scottish total IN SCOTLAND employment since 1998

CONSUMER EXPENDITURE ITUR E TED

END £1.9 -RELA

44% T

OF SPORT-RELATED OR NSUMER EXP

EXPENDITURE SP CO BILLION FROM PARTICIPATION 2.5% OF TOTAL CONSUMER 10% 53%

EXPENDITURE increase since increase since CLOTHING & EQUIPMENT SUBSCRIPTIONS 2004 adjusted for 1998 adjusted for FOOTWEAR & FEES IN SCOTLAND ination ination

All figures quoted are from 2010, for more information please go to: www.sportscotland.org.uk/economy | 15 MILLIONS OF SPORTING OPPORTUNITIES

DEVELOPING A WORLD CLASS CREATING A CULTURE SYSTEM OF SPORT

RECRUITING & SUPPORTING VOLUNTEERS

32 91 LOCAL ACTIVITIES AUTHORITIES YEARS OF ACTIVE SCHOOLS 1 10PROGRAMME 19,000 400+ PEOPLE DELIVERING COORDINATORS VOLUNTEERSSESSIONS

2,600 SCHOOLS 16 | The Active Schools Network The Active Schools network was coordinators working in every is celebrating 10 years of launched in 2004 with the clear aim of local authority in Scotland increasing the number of opportunities • 5.1 million visits to participant sessions providing more and higher available to children to participate in in 2012/13 school year – a 13% quality opportunities for sport, before, during lunch, and after increase from the previous year school. Ten years on, the network is children and young people going from strength to strength, working • 270,000 activity sessions (a 12% across Scotland. As the with local and national partners to give increase), with children having the young people access to more sport. The opportunity to take part in over 100 programme reaches this numbers speak for themselves: different activities significant milestone, we • sport scotland invested £11,925,900 • 19,000 people helping deliver sessions get the lowdown on the in the Active Schools Network over – 85% of whom are volunteers the 2012/13 financial year difference that Active • 2,423 sports clubs working with at • National network of over 400 least one school Schools has made, from the Active Schools managers and people that matter most.

Sarah Ross, Active Schools The work we do for schools is pivotal as The collaborative approach to getting Coordinator, High Life Highland they aim to achieve the recommended pupils involved in sport and physical The biggest challenge we face in level of activity, both within curriculum activity has been a huge success. Skye is the distance between the 14 and out of school hours. Andrew Marley, 16, S5 pupil at primary schools. With widely dispersed Over the years we have established St Mungo’s Academy, Glasgow communities, including a school on the effective partnerships with schools, local island of Raasay, transport costs and clubs, community programmes, and I have been involved with Active Schools other challenges need to be considered. national initiatives. This has taken hard work from the age of seven. Having initially In addition, five of the schools have less and dedication by the whole team but it has attended a range of Active Schools clubs than 20 pupils which limits the range of helped to get more children, more active, I then become an Activ8tor in primary six, activities you can do. more often which is what it’s all about. which allowed me to deliver sessions for children in primary one to five. Despite these obstacles Active Schools Bob Foley, Head of Health & Well has proven to be a big success on the When moving up to secondary I Being Faculty, Newbattle High island, offering new opportunities to continued to take part in many after- School, Midlothian children in a rural area. We have built school clubs, which helped me release a support network for volunteers and Active Schools has been one of the any frustrations of daily life and, in turn, local clubs, as well as creating strong PE department’s closest partners allowed me to channel my positive links with head teachers, schools, over the last 10 years and has helped energy into my school work and life. youth workers, and other partners as transform the school. Previously we Active Schools has rewarded me from we strive to raise the awareness and had few girls participating in PE and the a young age, giving me the support and importance of leading a healthy lifestyle. boys only wanted to play , but skills needed to help me grow and give Active Schools has also allowed us to now our department is thriving from something back to the community. ensure that our volunteers have the early morning, throughout lunchtime, to I now volunteer with many organisations opportunity to achieve national coaching twilight sessions and weekends. outside of school, coaching younger qualifications locally. Pupils have been provided with a host of children and children with disabilities. new opportunities, including training and The Active Schools programme has Leanne Hillan, Active Schools leadership roles, with the contribution given me countless opportunities Coordinator, Glasgow City Council of Active Schools coordinators certainly and has helped me develop into 10 helping to enrich our teaching. I have been involved in the Active a well-rounded individual. Schools programme since its inception Coaching qualifications are also available 10 years ago and the journey has been to pupils through Active Schools, both fulfilling and engaging. enabling them to gain skills that will help The programme has developed over them beyond school. the years and is now embedded into Organising everything from transition the fabric of everyday school life. We events linking with our six associate have become indispensable to schools, primaries, to summer festivals and after- as they now rely on us for guidance, school clubs, the contribution of the support, and coordination of all sport Active Schools team is incredible and and physical activity programmes. we couldn’t be without them.

www.sportscotland.org.uk/schools

| 17 TeamWITHIN THE

On the 23rd of July all eyes will be on the team athletes marching into for the Opening Ceremony, ready to represent their country on the world stage. But behind that team is another team. The experts and volunteers who ensure that the athletes have the support they need to focus solely 10on performance at Games time.

18 | “My background in triathlon goes way back but I got involved in team management for the Commonwealth Games in 2002 as I was coaching two athletes who were potentially going to make the team. It was something I was really interested in and having undertaken the role at world championship level, I had previous experience to offer. “My role is to support the coaches and athletes dealing with the policies and procedures, the technical aspects, making sure they understand what is expected of them. I generally try eam Scotland has recruited an “It’s so important that we don’t get to reduce the pressure on the impressive army of experts complacent and think ‘oh well it’s just coaches, I’m kind of the ‘go to guy’. Tto ensure that this will be the down the road so we can drop in and best prepared Scottish team at any out’. We need to prepare as we would for “The advantage of working for Commonwealth Games. Sport First any Games and while you may only be sportscotland is that I know most of talks to two of the sportscotland staff five or ten miles from home, you need the people involved with the team and selected to join the ‘team behind the to be fully committed to the role at have regular contact with them, which team’: Physiotherapist Fiona Mather Games time. is really helpful. But managing the time commitment within the realms of the day and Triathlon Team Manager, John Lunn. “It’s a fantastic privilege to be with job can be hard so it’s a lot of evenings sportscotland institute of sport Head athletes as they are about to undertake and weekends. Physio Fiona Mather is no stranger to major what could be the biggest challenge of events, having been part of the Team GB their sporting career. “There’s a lot of experience among the managers on Team Scotland and a real set up for the Olympics in London and “Often the physiotherapist is the last mix. Some are full time in the sport and providing physio support at other multi person the athlete speaks to before they it becomes part of their job, while others sports events. And while Glasgow will be compete. At that point it’s almost like are volunteers and board members. her first Commonwealth Games, Fiona has the physical and mental aspects of the There are three or four new faces but the been making the most of her experience performance come together. in the run up to Scotland’s largest sporting rest have experience of previous Games event in a generation: “A home Games brings added pressure - for some this is their seventh or eighth so at that point, our role is about Games. They see a real value in it and “It’s quite unique to have two back-to- managing the distractions, trying to get people really commit to it. back home Games and I’ve used the the athlete in the frame of mind that “For me, I don’t look to gain from doing experience gained from working with actually this is just another competition. this role; rather I want to give back Team GB to help in the planning along It’s important to keep to their normal to the sport. I haven’t competed at a with Team Scotland Head Physio Lyndsey competition routine because in those last Commonwealth Games but I have raced Thompson. To coin a phrase, we are the few moments, that’s when they can really internationally so I do understand the ‘team behind the team’ making sure that have a wobble. the detail is in place and that no stone is athlete’s point of view and just hope to left unturned in terms of preparation. “We need to make sure the athletes are make it easier for them by passing some confident in their physical body. We can of my experience on. “My role on Team Scotland dovetails very remind them of all the preparation they 10 nicely with the day job. It’s important for the “I’m really looking forward to seeing our have done to bring them to that point and athletes competing, doing what they do athletes that when they go into a Games to reach their full physical potential environment they don’t see a load of new best and hopefully doing it really well.” “I am enormously proud and privileged faces, people who don’t know them or their “It’s a great experience. Being part to be in the position I am in and I’m very, medical background and injury history. We of the team is as close as you’ll get very grateful to the institute for giving me want to provide continuity for the athletes to being an athlete without being this opportunity.” and as the majority of the institute physios an athlete. ” will be involved with Team Scotland, I have For John Lunn, sportscotland Head of been able to ensure that those physios Pathways, while there is initially no direct were working with the athletes on the team link to the day job in his role as triathlon in the lead up to the Games. It’s all about team manager it’s his planning skills and planning. triathlon knowledge that made him the perfect candidate for the job.

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www.goscotland.org | 19 THE INSIDE TRACK Since first sitting in a racing wheelchair five years ago, Meggan Dawson-Farrell has never looked back and was one of the first athletes to be confirmed for Team Scotland in the T54 1,500 metres. We caught up with this extraordinary young woman to hear more about her journey in sport.

Q. How did you get in to wheelchair racing Q. What does a typical day look Q. What achievement are you most proud and when did you start taking it seriously? like for you ? of in your sporting career so far?

My first introduction to wheelchair A typical Monday for me starts at 6am. To date my most memorable moment is racing was when I joined a sports club I eat breakfast before heading to the completing my first (London) in Grangemouth - The Forth Valley local gym for my 7am start with my in 2012 and then again in 2013. I hold Flyers. I had been at a sports camp support team from the sportscotland the Scottish marathon record, and am a few weeks earlier with the Scottish institute of sport. I begin work with my currently ranked second in Britain. My Spina Bifida Association, when I was strength and conditioning coach David time was 2hrs 18mins but I know I’ve got spotted and invited to train with the for 60 – 90 minutes. At the moment much more to give. I’m also really chuffed Scottish regional team. I trained for a I am really focused on core stability as to have the fastest Scottish qualifying year in my day chair before my parents this is an area of weakness for me time thus far for the 1500m race at the bought me a second hand racing due to my spina bifida. I’m home mid- Commonwealth Games (3.42mins). version. We named him “Herbie” as morning and ready to do my “Theraband” it was old and knackered! But once work - a proactive programme that Q. How are you feeling about I got Herbie it brought a new competitive my physiotherapist Stewart Kerr has your performance leading up side of me out. I love racing other designed for me. It focuses on my upper to Glasgow 2014? people and knew it was a life changing body control and strength. After lunch My build up to the Games so far has moment for me. I chill for a while before getting ready been a little hampered. I had to have to travel to Glasgow to work with my emergency brain surgery in October, coach Ian Mirfin at Crownpoint Stadium. which put me out of training for a few I train six days a week, getting weeks. Then, when I was just getting a Saturday off. back in to my winter training programme,

20 | I damaged my rotator cuff. I was out of younger disabled children. I want to help QUICK FIRE ROUND training again for over a month. The good and encourage them to find their passion news is I’ve been back in my chair now for in life. I had a really tough start and I’d love three weeks and I’m focused on getting to help them realise their potential. Winter or summer? back on track to pull the performance of Summer my life out at the Games. Q. How do you blow off steam and relax? One word: JIGSAWS! I spent a lot of time Person you most admire in sport? Q. How special is a home Games like on my own before I got in to athletics; Tatyana McFadden (USA) wheelchair Glasgow 2014 - more or less pressure? it’s my escape from thinking about what’s racer – She is AWESOME! Glasgow for me will be my biggest event going on around me. Favourite food (healthy)? to date, with that comes great pride. Q. What are your aspirations for Brussel sprouts The desire to please your home crowd your career? by bringing home a medal is huge. This Favourite food (unhealthy)? brings pressure to perform at the top My goal is to be one of the best Chinese food of your game. The flip side is that it is a wheelchair athletes Britain has ever City or Country? home Games, and I know Glasgow – produced. I’m aiming to be one of the Country it’s my ‘turf’! top athletes in the world for my sport. This is a huge ask of myself, but I believe Christmas or Halloween? Q. What part of being an athlete do you I’ve got the guts and determination to Christmas find the most rewarding? get there. In five years’ time I’m hoping to Finding confidence in myself, athletics be the “one” everybody else is chasing! Most interesting place you’ve been brought purpose and meaning to my life. I also hope I can inspire other disabled with your sport? I know I’ll only get out what I put in, so or vulnerable people to believe in Switzerland (they have cool cows every PB makes me really happy. I also themselves. with bells on) get great pleasure out of working with Favourite musical guilty pleasure? Dolly Parton (9 to 5)

www.goscotland.org

| 21 Team Scotland Now in 2014, the year we have all been waiting for, Commonwealth Ones to watch Games Scotland has released a new set of athlete images depicting ‘ones to watch’ for Glasgow 2014 with 200 which will be used throughout Team Scotland’s back the team days to go campaign – ‘Go Scotland!’

The photos have been shot at iconic locations around Boxing – Josh Taylor, Edinburgh Castle, Edinburgh Scotland, with some of Team Scotland’s prospective team members and medal hopefuls. The strong common theme of the photos is ‘Proud’ and is a clear demonstration of what it means for athletes from across the length and breadth of the country to represent Team Scotland in Glasgow next summer. Thanks to the support of sportscotland, images for the PHOTO remaining eight sports will be released later in 2014.

Athletics – Eilidh Child, , Glasgow FINISH

Lawn – Alex Marshall, Kelvingrove Art Gallery, Glasgow

Cycling – Katie Archibald, Para-sport powerlifting – Forth Rail Bridge, North Queensferry Micky Yule, BAE Systems, Glasgow

22 | Badminton – Imogen Bankier, Para-sport athletics – Eilean Donan Castle, Kyle of Lochalsh Meggan Dawson-Farrell, Falkirk Wheel

Shooting – Shona Marshall, Carnoustie Judo – Euan Burton, Wallace Monument,

Gymnastics – Dan Purvis, SSE Hydro, Glasgow

www.goscotland.org

@teamscotland | 23 WEAVING IN HISTORY Commonwealth Games Scotland (CGS) has unveiled the striking new tartan that will be used to make the Team Scotland parade uniforms for the Glasgow 2014 Commonwealth Games. The new look has been designed by internationally renowned textile designer and artist, Jilli Blackwood, and the tartan has been produced by House of Edgar at the Isle Mill in Keith, Aberdeenshire.

24 | Jilli Blackwood, a native of Glasgow and graduate of , was commissioned by CGS to bring contemporary style and flair to the parade uniforms and ensure that when the eyes of the world are on Scotland for the Games Opening Ceremony next summer, they live up to expectations. Explaining how it all began, CGS Chief Executive and Team Scotland Chef de Mission Jon Doig said: “The Scottish team has always made a big impression when it enters the stadium at a Commonwealth Games, mainly wearing the traditional kilt. However for 2014, whilst we want to retain iconic Scottish elements we want “You instantly know who to introduce a contemporary twist. the Scottish team are “Over the years we have had special team because the kilt and the made and sometimes we have tartan are unique to us and drawn links to the Games host country we’re very proud of it and such as Indian style shirt collars in 2010, but the look has largely remained it makes you stand tall.” consistent and traditional. The women in particular have always felt that the design is very male oriented and lacks a sense of style and attention to detail. Blackwood’s aim has been to “create a Swathed in the tartan straight from the “So for 2014 we decided to engage a strong and confident look through colour loom, Hannah said: “I really like the look of designer to work with us, to ensure that we and texture, which is loosely inspired by the the tartan, it is bright and colourful bring a contemporary look that works for Highland landscape” as well as reflecting and everybody will know when Team everyone and one that showcases the best the “warmth of hospitality and character” Scotland arrives in the stadium. of Scotland’s vibrant design industry. of the host nation. She has chosen a “You instantly know who the Scottish team “We saw the stunning outfits that Jilli vibrant colour palette, bringing together are because the kilt and the tartan are Blackwood designed for the cast involved an unusual and bold combination of unique to us and we’re very proud of it in the Glasgow section of the Delhi 2010 turquoise, fuchsia, burnt caramel and navy and it makes you stand tall. Closing Ceremony and decided to discuss blue to create a tartan she believes best “Jilli has done an amazing job of designing our ideas with her. encapsulates the four distinctive seasons of Scotland. it and I feel very privileged to get a sneak “Now seeing the tartan on the weaving preview. I will be really proud to wear the loom, I am delighted with her interpretation The new tartan is a significant and tartan next summer after I hopefully qualify of our original brief. It is fantastic to watch deliberate contrast with the more traditional for the team in April.” the design for such an iconic symbol CGS corporate tartan. Jilli explains: Other athlete reaction to the tartan on of Scotland, designed in Scotland, “I experimented with a range of colours Twitter included captain and produced in Scotland, unfold at and elements of the existing CGS tartan Colin Gregor: the Isle Mill. before producing this. It’s just so different from what has gone before. “Looking forward to hopefully rocking “I have no doubt the Team Scotland 2014 the @Team_Scotland tartan during the tartan will make a huge impression as part “The colours are unique and it is a summer. #bestdressedteam” of the final parade uniform, when as the lovely tartan which radiates warmth. host team we are last to enter the stadium We are a warm nation and I think And Shooting Commonwealth gold at the Opening Ceremony.” that is reflected in this.” medallist Neil Stirton added: Athletes have been consulted throughout “Our bold and vibrant @Team_Scotland the uniform design process, and among the tartan. We WILL be noticed walking first athletes to get a glimpse of the tartan into the stadium. #Glasgow2014 was Commonwealth gold medallist Hannah #ProudToBeScottish” Miley. Hannah hopes to be in action at The full parade uniforms that Team the Tollcross International Swimming Scotland athletes and officials will wear Centre this summer to defend her title on for all formal functions at Glasgow day one of the Games. 2014 will be revealed later in the year.

www.goscotland.org

@teamscotland | 25 What do Order of Merit champion Jack McDonald; half of Scotland’s women’s football ‘A’ squad and European U23 1500m bronze medallist Laura Muir have in common? Apart from being READY, gifted athletes, they’re all students - Winning Students, to be precise. Scotland’s colleges and universities are brimming with sporting talent and STUDY, Winning Students, the national sports scholarships for student athletes, is GO! supporting them all the way. inning Students was lot of courses. My schedule means I just performance system we are building. established in 2008, can’t afford to work and running is an It is crucially important as it allows Wfunded by the Scottish expensive sport. elite athletes to combine their sporting Funding Council and run by the “Ever since I was little I really career and their educational career. In of Stirling. In the past liked working with animals the current climate, a higher education six years, it has invested £2.9 and I couldn’t see myself doing qualification is more important than ever, million in scholarships to some 355 anything else really. I’m really and this initiative sends out a strong athletes studying in 30 colleges enjoying the course and hope to message to parents, athletes and all our and universities across Scotland. qualify and get a part-time job so I sporting agencies and partners. Working in partnership with the can still run.” “The Scottish Funding Council should be sportscotland institute of sport, athletes are Graduates of the programme leave armed commended for its foresight and wisdom identified by governing bodies of sport and with a or university qualification and in supporting this innovative Scottish receive a crucial combination of funding and will have progressed towards their sporting programme and there are already figures academic flexibility. goals. A recent progress report found 72% to prove we are having a major impact. That can mean everything from an essay of athletes noticed an improved sporting We are also very excited to be planning extension to studying part-time, as is the performance as a result of the support and the next stages, further strengthening the case for vet student 30% stated they would have to consider role of the further and higher education Laura Muir. Laura, who will make her giving up their sporting ambitions without it. sectors in Scotland in delivering a truly world class system.” Commonwealth debut at Glasgow 2014, Mike Whittingham, Director of High said: “It’s a huge, huge benefit to have the Performance at the sportscotland Applications for support are managed support from Winning Students. institute of sport, has helped to shape the through the governing bodies of sport. “This year I’m doing third year part-time scholarships, serving on its advisory board. Please visit the website and that’s helping a lot as even part- (www.winningstudents-scotland.ac.uk) He said: “Winning Students is a for full scholarship details. time it’s more demanding than quite a key component of the world class

26 | promising teenage tennis “I’ve been coaching back home player, Joe Gill had a since I was 15 and it’s something I Adecision to make at 18. always wanted to do. The dream Focus solely on his sport or one day would be to manage my consider a life beyond the game. own tennis programme which was Instead, he chose both. why I studied Sport Management.” The Yorkshire-man headed north to Whilst at university, Gill received support the , where he combined from Winning Students, something he studies in sport, politics and management believes was critical in his progression. with practise and training at the Scottish He added: “It was a massive support National Tennis Centre, housed at the financially and without it I wouldn’t have University. been able to afford to compete abroad Whilst studying, Gill achieved a doubles and improve my game. It also allowed me world ranking, won three Aegon British Tour to balance my studies – I still completed events and represented his university at the all the essays and sat all the exams, but elite Master-U BNP Paribas International. at times which worked around my tennis.” Now graduated, Gill is one of eight Gill is one of more than 100 graduates of apprentice coaches employed through the scholarship programme, with alumni sportscotland’s Coaching Futures pursuing careers as lawyers, doctors, programme. Working for Tennis Scotland, as a player with top juniors and see what plumbers, police officers, full-time Gill works across a variety of roles, from direction I want my career to go in,” said Gill. professional footballers, coaches and coaching the next generation of elite players “Week to week the role differs as sometimes sports scientists, to name but a to running participation programmes in the national coaches are at competitions so few examples. schools and clubs. then I step up and take the lead coaching “The role is fantastic as it allows me to learn role and when everyone is around I can from great coaches, share my experiences shadow and learn on the job.

www.winningstudents-scotland.ac.uk

facebook.com/winningstudents @WinningStudents | 27 We all know that being successful in sport often comes down to how hard you work. To paraphrase the classic theme song, if you want to be the best and beat the rest, dedication is what you need. But whilst Performance Lifestyle Advisor Mary McClung might not disagree, she’s also likely to point out that there’s much more to being a top class athlete. We hear how Mary and her colleagues help athletes balance their sporting commitments with their careers and education.

EMPOWERING

28 | Former international 800m runner Mary If Scotland is to compete successfully, So what are the right choices? McClung has achieved a huge amount the support available to them has “Essentially we help the athlete manage in sport, travelling all over the word to to be of a world class standard. And their life alongside performance sport,” compete at the very highest level. These Mary has no doubt that the athletes Mary explains. “We are there to educate days, in her job at the sportscotland supported by the sportscotland institute athletes about high performance behaviour institute of sport, she’s responsible for of sport are supported by an excellent within the high performance sporting helping athletes make the choices off range of services. world. Our job is not to pass judgement the field of competition that increase “We have tremendous expertise in on athletes, but to help them make better their chances of performing at a high Scotland,” Mary asserts. “We are a small decisions by considering all the options, level on the field. nation and, as a consequence, we have and understanding the immediate and Mary works with athletes based in the a relatively low number of athletes in long term impact of those decisions. east of Scotland across a range of sports comparison to the likes of , the We support and suggest, we do not including judo, gymnastics and lawn US, and Australia. However our ratio of lecture. But we have the evidence to bowls, all of which we will see on the supportive experts to athletes is very support all the guidance we give. world stage in this year’s Commonwealth strong. We are up there with the best “I would compare it to building a house Games. On the face of it, three very in the world and are constantly striving - the quality and sustainability depend different sports requiring different abilities to improve ourselves and performance largely upon the foundations on which it is and attributes. But the issues the athletes lifestyle is only one of our areas of focus.” built. Performance Lifestyle helps athletes have to face on a daily basis are not While the modern demands of elite sport get the right foundations and maintain unique to their sporting discipline. mean that the days of sports stars being them, so that the building can be changed “Career and education is a huge area for able to party as hard as they train are and adapted to its best.” many of our athletes,” says Mary. “Most now a distant memory, Mary knows that of them do other things in their life as well when it comes to performance lifestyle, as train and compete – they have jobs or there’s no one-size-fits-all approach to are in education, sometimes both. Within rest and relaxation. these areas we work with employers and education providers to establish flexible “The performance lifestyle working or study paths for the athletes, team is there to help an athlete to ensure they can combine both areas manage the factors that affect in the most effective way for them. their sport, so what is bad for one could be good for another. “Many of our school age athletes have I will suggest that an athlete reduced timetables, which gives them free who has an awareness of how periods during their normal days to spend their lifestyle impacts on their studying. This frees up their evenings for performance and adapts it when training, rest and recovery. We also work required would be far better with athletes to prepare them for life after placed to perform at their best. sport. This is especially relevant right now However what constitutes as we anticipate a number of our athletes a ‘performance lifestyle’ is very retiring after the Commonwealth Games.” individual to each person.” Changes in athletes’ lives and circumstances need to be managed “It comes down to understanding successfully, Mary stresses. “Transitions yourself as a person, and how your are a big area for us. It’s about forward behaviour impacts on your training and planning and preparing for forthcoming competition. We can only help athletes change, whether it’s moving through become more self-aware, the decision education stages, changing coaches, life is always theirs. There may be some events or injuries. It’s about reducing the behaviour that I wouldn’t necessarily stress on the athletes and supporting them recommend for a performance athlete. through potentially difficult experiences. However, if it works for that particular It’s about providing them with the best person and allows them to perform at opportunity to succeed in their sport.” their best, then who am I to argue?”

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| 29 READY FOR THE RELAY

14th June, the Queen’s Working with Glasgow 2014 and We’re working with local partners to Commonwealth Games Scotland, identify opportunities on the route where Baton enters Scotland for sportscotland is delighted to be an our promotional team can support events the final leg of its journey official partner of the Queen’s Baton Relay with a range of fun, interactive activities and (QBR). Our networks are supporting the giveaways. Our team will also encourage towards Glasgow 2014. event with Active Schools teams across people to out their local sports clubs For 40 days the baton Scotland involved in local celebrations, and other organisations, and get involved in and community sport hubs set to host sport and physical activity. will make its way around many events along the route. If you’re involved in planning around the country as local We’re also excited to announce that the QBR in your area and would like during the QBR and Games we’ll be to know more, get in touch with your communities celebrate the running a promotional campaign to partnership manager at sportscotland coming of the Games. encourage people to get into sport. on 0141 534 6500.

www.sportscotland.org.uk

30 | sportscotland.org.uk nationalagencyforsport @sportscotland

Thanks to Glasgow 2014, sportscotland is accelerating its plans for WINS a world class sporting system at all levels.

We are investing in facilities across Scotland that are available to all. This means more and better opportunities to get involved in sport. THE BE GAMES As the Glasgow 2014 Commonwealth Games draws closer, final preparations are under way for what will be the biggest sporting and cultural event Scotland has ever seen. Elite athletes across 71 nations and territories are preparing to make history at Glasgow 2014, participating in 17 sports in 13 venues over 11 days. Alongside the sporting action, communities will come together as an invigorating mix of entertainment, culture and fun takes over the country. There are lots of ways you too can become part of history this summer by taking part in the Games and the celebrations, even if you can’t be there in person. We’ve put together 10 ideas on how you can ‘be the Games’.

There has been huge demand for tickets for the Games and there are still opportunities to get up close to the action for a limited number of sports. This is your chance to be part of the Games, so don’t miss out on the opportunity to experience the electric atmosphere and the emotion of 01 being part of the crowd. Your ticket takes you right to the heart of the action, joining spectators and athletes from across the world.

TICKETS To book please visit www.glasgow2014.com/tickets

Culture 2014 has arrived! Throughout the year it showcases and celebrates the best of Scottish culture alongside creative work from across the globe. At Games Time, as the eyes of the Commonwealth fix on Glasgow, the city will respond by launching Festival 2014, a fascinating programme of events 02 designed to connect communities by filling venues and streets with an interactive mix of games, sport, dance, music, theatre, visual arts and so much more! CULTURE 2014 To find out more please visit www.glasgow2014.com/culture

The Queen’s Baton Relay is a unique tradition that unites the two billion citizens of the Commonwealth in a celebration of sport, diversity and peace. It’s already covered tens of thousands of miles, with communities 03 from every corner of the Commonwealth taking part in the festivities and cheering on the batonbearers.

THE QUEEN’S To find out more about the Scottish leg of the relay visit BATON RELAY www.glasgow2014.com/queens-baton-relay

Glasgow 2014 and the Big Lottery Fund want to help the sporting community attract the funding and resources you need to develop your sporting and physical activity. If you belong to a sports club or voluntary organisation, 04 you can apply for a grant of between £300 and £2,000 to help with coaching costs, sports kit, equipment purchase, venue hire and much more. BIG LOTTERY For funding information visit FUND UK www.biglotteryfund.org.uk/prog_2014_communities

32 | Glasgow 2014 is working in partnership with UNICEF – the organisation working for children in over 190 countries – and the Commonwealth Games Federation to benefit every child in Scotland and children in every 05 Commonwealth country. Why not use the power of sport to help transform children’s lives by organising your own charity sporting event? There are lots of ways you can raise money while having a great time and keeping fit. MARK THE OCCASION BY HELPING OTHERS For ideas visit www.unicef.org.uk/Children

There’s still time for your community to apply for a grant of between £10,000 and £100,000 from sportscotland to help with a community led project of your choosing. New projects include bike and skate 06 parks, outdoor adventure facilities, walking routes and projects within school estates.

LEGACY 2014 ACTIVE For more information please visit www.sportscotland.org.uk PLACES FUND

Show your support for the Games by organising a street party or hosting a Games-themed event at your home. Commonwealth Games merchandise is available and includes t-shirts, backpacks and other party essentials. 07 Get in touch with your local newspaper or radio station and share your ideas with others in your community. STREET To get your merchandise please visit CELEBRATIONS www.shop.glasgow2014.com

This project will inject our public places with an infusion of dance, helping people to become active in the process. The main event – where amateur and professional dancers will come together – is the Commonwealth Ceilidh, 08 which begins at 19.30 GMT on Saturday 21 June 2014. Together with dancers around the world you can be part of a global 24 hour ceilidh to celebrate the Games. GET SCOTLAND DANCING For details of the fun visit www.getscotlanddancing.org

On 23 July 2014 Glasgow will burst to life as the Games kick off with a spectacular Opening Ceremony. This special event and the best of the sporting action will be beamed live to three main screens across the city – located at Merchant City, Kelvingrove Bandstand and Glasgow Green, which 09 will also be the start and finish point of the Marathon and Cycle Road Race and Time Trial. You can join in the celebrations free of charge during Games time at any of these locations. LIVE VENUES To find out more visit www.glasgow2014.com

The Games will generate a wealth of exciting sport and cultural news stories. If you’re eager to develop and share your own stories from the Commonwealth celebrations, then get involved in a series of specially 10 developed community media cafés in a location near you. The sessions will help you get the best out of your podcasting, mobile audio and digital storytelling over tea, coffee and biscuits. JOIN THE MEDIA CAFÉ REVOLUTION To find a café near you visit www.celebrateit.org.uk

However you choose to get involved, it’s going to be an exciting time for all of us. More details will be announced in the run up to the Opening Ceremony. If you’ve not already registered for updates, you can do it now on our website.

www.glasgow2014.com

| 33 STRENGTH, FOCUS, AMBITION

t the last Commonwealth Games Twenty-six-year-old Peter Kirkbride is no 25 frames per second to 300 frames in Delhi, weightlifter Peter stranger to the Commonwealth Games. per second greatly improved the images AKirkbride gave a fantastic Having competed at both a Youth Games Peter and Charlie had been used to. We performance to confidently win silver, (Bendigo 2004) and two senior Games also engineered a solution that meant the thoroughly entertaining spectators (Melbourne 2006 & Delhi 2010), he knows footage was delivered and archived in a in the process as he passionately more than anyone that the journey to very coach-friendly manner.” celebrated his achievement. We hear Glasgow won’t be easy. The snatch requires not only about how Peter has been working A self-confessed training junkie who with experts at the sportscotland once fell foul to injury following a grueling great strength but also huge institute of sport to develop a key regime of 14 training sessions in 10 days, technical skill, a high degree technique to help his qualification Peter has to balance his dedication to of shoulder, back and leg chances for Glasgow 2014. training with pushing himself towards flexibility, excellent balance optimum conditioning and peak performance. Hoping to add value to his and explosive speed. strong work ethic and bolster his training, To help with analysing the raw data the team at the sportscotland institute provided by the cameras, institute of sport have been working closely with physiotherapist Kelly Horne was also Peter and coach Charlie ‘Chic’ Hamilton drafted in to explain the lift from a physical to give them support. perspective - for example, tightness in the The snatch was identified as a key lift for hips or shoulders will affect bar placement Peter to develop and is performed by and therefore the ability to get into position lifting a barbell from the platform to locked quickly enough. When reviewing the arms overhead in a smooth continuous footage with Peter and Charlie, Kelly could movement. Consultants to the institute, explain the possible reasons for whichever Elite Sports Analysis (ESA), were asked to aspect of the lift was under scrutiny. They join the support group working with Peter would then look for ways to improve the and Charlie, with a remit of enhancing the musculoskeletal imperfections using feedback available within and between release work, flexibility or strengthening the targeted lifting sessions. work in conjunction with strength and conditioning coach, James Lowry. Kenny More from ESA describes the project: “We quickly realised a mobile, high speed camera solution needed to be at the heart of the feedback we’d provide. Increasing the frame rate from

34 | At each session the footage is shot from “Being able to visually show “The instantaneous nature of the side and face on. This allows Kenny to Peter the breakdown of different feedback has really helped Peter with present analysis from these angles, but also the psychological aspects of performing to quickly create synchronized composite aspects of his own technique the snatch. The sheer speed of the images, as well as images that track was fantastic in such slow movement, and the precision that the lift bar path with a blue trace. The key is to motion. It really added to the demands, means that it can quite easily have initial images available as immediate coaching of those techniques go wrong. This often affects an athlete’s feedback, composite and bar path images mental ability to perform it. The work of at specific feedback moments within the and helped Peter to visualise his the team on this project has really helped session, and all images suitably archived for positioning and movement in a Peter’s confidence which is a crucial any post-session reviews. One final output simple and impactful way.” aspect of this lift and something which is a series of images of key points in the lift. has made a difference to him.” These can provide excellent comparisons Having started the project in April across sessions, which can be both last year, Peter went to Malaysia for informational and motivational. This range the Commonwealth Weightlifting of feedback also allows Charlie and Peter Championships in November and to receive in-session support from Kelly snatched his highest score in two and James. years. It’s progress that Charlie is really pleased with. This integrated team approach proved to be a big hit with Charlie and Peter once they got the timings and format to gel with Peter’s programme. Charlie explains:

Weightlifting: Did you know?

Weightlifting was part of the very first Olympics in 1896 but it wasn’t until 2000 that women were allowed to compete at the Games.

Final placings are based on the total weight lifted in the two different lifts: the snatch and the clean & jerk.

The snatch involves lifting the weight above the head in one movement; the clean & jerk allows the weightlifter to raise the weight above the head in two movements.

Each lifter is allowed three attempts at the snatch and three attempts at the clean and jerk, with their best lift in each discipline counting towards their total. www.sisport.com

When a tie occurs, the athlete with the lower bodyweight is declared the winner. There are 15 medal events in total. | 35 RAISING THE BAR

onstantly developing and “I’ve been pushed a lot since moving to involved in monthly one-to-one sessions, improving the quality of coaching triathlonscotland in 2008, and having a providing individual support to help them Cavailable to high performance programme like Coaching Matters gives reflect on and develop their skills. athletes is vital to ensure Scotland you that confidence and support to know “The evolution of Coaching Matters in continues to produce champions on the that the things you are experiencing are the last few years has moved closer world stage. A personal development actually normal and there are ways to and closer to what I think performance programme for performance coaches – overcome them. coach development should be. And that Coaching Matters – was set up in “Coaching Matters has given me further is not just about sitting in a classroom,” 2009 to help achieve this goal. As education on the soft skills required Chris said. “It’s about checking and the initiative enters a new phase, we to take knowledge and pass it on. challenging people, going out and caught up with one coach who has Alongside that, the Mindset project run watching them perform and then feeding already reaped the benefits. by sportscotland Talent Manager Tony back into the process. Stanger was another area which was also “This is certainly a unique programme Chris Volley, Head Coach at hugely beneficial. These sportscotland which helps to link academia with real- triathlonscotland, has been a part initiatives have been fantastic and have life coaching experiences. Teaching of Coaching Matters since the very helped to improve me as a coach.” softer skills and connecting the beginning. Having made a swift Coaching Matters is run as a partnership knowledge from the university, the input transition from athlete to coach, between sportscotland and the from experts and the support of the Chris believes that the programme has University of Stirling. In its first year, a coaching community makes Coaching been instrumental in his progression series of workshops helped performance Matters a very powerful tool. over the past three years. coaches develop their effectiveness “Coaches push athletes to the limits, He explained: “Having been part of and stay up to date with coaching and Coaching Matters plays a part the initial intake for Coaching Matters, issues. As the initiative developed, in stretching coaches to be the best my journey through the process has sport-specific programmes were offered they can be by helping them to been phenomenal. Coaching Matters in which individual sports created a constantly improve.” has certainly improved me as a coach, series of targeted workshops built because nobody knows it all and around the specific requirements of their Coaching Matters is continually evolving there are always areas which can performance coaches. to help provide coaches with the be improved. tailored support required to make As part of the latest update to the a real difference. programme, coaches working with potential Glasgow 2014 athletes are

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