Utmost International Guernsey is continuing its ongoing support of the Guernsey Island Games Association (GIGA) by awarding two bursaries to the Guernsey Lawn Tennis Association and Guernsey Golf Union.
Utmost International Guernsey has consistently awarded bursaries on a rotational basis since 2018, with the aim that each of Guernsey’s 18 sports teams will have received funding twice by the time Guernsey hosts the NatWest International Island Games XIX in 2023.
The bursaries are critical in supporting the teams who use the funding for a variety of reasons, such as purchasing new kit and equipment, paying for travel, or bringing guest coaches to the island.
The tennis team will be using its bursary money to organise expert coaching to help enhance player performance and make better use of training time, as well as helping to inspire the team. The funding for the golf team will help to pay for the athletes’ kit as they prepare for the next Island Games in Guernsey.
Leon Steyn, Chief Executive Officer for Utmost International Guernsey, said: “Sport is such a vital part of island life here in Guernsey, so we’re proud to be able to support our teams with this important funding.
“Each team is committed to sporting excellence, and we know how much hard work goes in to achieving that elite level of performance. We are always happy to hear how our bursaries help these teams and the positive impact they have on the wider sports community.”
Brian Allen, Chairman of the Guernsey Island Games Association, commented: ”These bursaries are crucial for helping our island sports community to thrive while inspiring future generations of athletes. In addition to helping teams with kit and funding for coaching, the positive impact that they have on sports enthusiasts competing at every level is invaluable.”
Utmost International Guernsey is committed to sponsoring GIGA until 2023 when Guernsey is hosting the NatWest International Island Games XIX, of which Utmost International Guernsey is also a sponsor. The Games were due to take place in 2021 but were rescheduled due to the Covid-19 pandemic.
The main picture shows the Treasurer of GIGA, Rick Denton and CEO of Utmost International Guernsey, Leon Steyn with golf and tennis Representatives.
