After two successful years supporting Jersey’s most talented athletes, Jersey Sport has announced that applications are now open for the Performance Sport Programme 2026 , with an expanded offer that will, for the first time, include coaches and officials alongside athletes.
The Performance Sport Programme has played a key role in helping local athletes progress towards podium success. In 2026, the programme will grow to recognise the critical role that coaches and officials play in driving sporting performance, development and long-term success across the Island.
Existing athletes supported by the programme will be assessed on their 2025 performances and placed into either Podium or Podium Potential cohorts. Applications from new athletes are also welcome, with successful applicants allocated to the appropriate level based on current performance and future potential.
For the first time, aspiring and developing coaches and officials who have demonstrated a clear commitment to progressing their coaching or officiating career will be able to apply for support, reflecting Jersey Sport’s commitment to strengthening the entire performance pathway – not just those competing, but those enabling excellence at every level.
Successful applicants will receive targeted funding to support their development through formal qualifications and informal upskilling opportunities, alongside access to a comprehensive multi-disciplinary support package.
The importance of coaching has been consistently highlighted by athletes currently supported by the programme.
Performance Sport Programme triathlete Ollie Turner said: “Without a coach, the athlete wouldn’t operate. Coaches are the vital mechanism of the sporting machine.”
Fellow athlete Bradley Andrews-Callec added: “A coach believing in me gave me the confidence to believe in myself. Their honesty, belief and investment in my future changed my journey.”
Table tennis’ Hannah Silcock highlighted the wider impact of coaching support: “Committed coaches have made a massive difference to my journey. Their passion helped me grow not just as an athlete, but as a confident young woman.”
Performance Sport Programme lead Dom Blampied said the 2026 expansion marks an important step for local sport: “Jersey Sport are delighted to be expanding the Performance Sport Programme in 2026 to welcome applications from new athletes alongside existing athletes. As well as this, we are thrilled to be able to support coaches and officials in 2026. This is a hugely important area in local sport and we hope that by doing this we can support all aspects of sporting performance.”
Main picture: Bradley Andrews-Callec. Credit: David Ferguson/Pulse 45 Sports
