Talented Athletes
Every year, we help a number of people through the Isle of Wight Council’s Talented Athlete Programme. The scheme provides support for athletes to train for top level competitions within their chosen sport, with travel and other discounts available.
Requests for individual athlete sponsorship must be made directly to the council’s sports unit – unfortunately, we don’t accept applications from individuals directly as all our support runs through the Scheme. For more information, visit the Council’s Talented Athlete Scheme page.
Applications for the 2026 Talented Athlete Scheme have closed.
Alec Broome, Sports Development Officer at the Isle of Wight Council, said:
The sponsorship Wightlink offers enables these sports persons the opportunity to train and compete at a level not accessible on the Island. Regular competition and top level coaching is vital for any athlete to reach their full potential. Without the support of Wightlink many of these athletes would not have the opportunity to test their skills and see how far they can progress.
To qualify to be an elite performer, you must:
- be ranked in the top 20 nationally for your sport at the time of your application (As listed on your sports national governing body site)
- have been selected for a national development program or are a member of a national team
- be an Isle of Wight resident
- compete in a sport or discipline that is recognised by Sport England and governed by a National Governing Body (NGB) that is also recognised by Sport England, or a National Disability Sports Organisation
- are a non-professional
To qualify to be a junior performer, you must:
- be ranked in the top 10 regional level or top 5 at county level (Hampshire) at the time of application (As listed on your sports national governing body site). National or international rankings are also considered.
- be a current member of a county or regional team
- be an Isle of Wight resident
- be aged 18 or under (as of 31 December in the year of application)
- compete in a sport or discipline that is recognised by Sport England and governed by a National Governing Body (NGB) that is also recognised by Sport England, or a National Disability Sports Organisation (NDSO)
