Welsh Athletes to Benefit from TASS Support

A new relationship between Sport Wales and TASS means that Welsh athletes with the potential to reach world class level within two or three years will now be offered services designed to help them achieve their sporting potential.

A new relationship between Sport Wales and TASS means that Welsh athletes with the potential to reach world class level within two or three years will now be offered services designed to help them achieve their sporting potential.

These athletes will receive a needs-led, quality assured package of support including strength & conditioning, physiotherapy, personal development, nutrition and sports psychology. Athletes will also benefit from the TASS Medical Scheme, which provides fast access to private medical treatment in the event of a sports related illness or injury, and Mental Health support via our partner Sporting Chance.

The support will be delivered initially at Cardiff Metropolitan University and Swansea University with nominated athletes from six sports able to take advantage of the support this year – badminton, hockey, sailing, triathlon, shooting and archery. More National Governing Bodies (NGBs) will be able to nominate athletes in line with their own schedules, throughout the year.

The Wales Ladies’ Hockey Team celebrating bronze in the recent European Championships II

Guy Taylor, TASS National Director commented:

‘We are delighted to be providing this performance support to athletes in Wales. We’re looking forward to working with Sport Wales and the participating universities to help these talented athletes to reach their full potential.’

Owen Lewis, Director of Sport Systems, Sport Wales said:

‘The partnership with TASS and the university delivery sites means that we can offer quality assured, appropriate support to talented athletes in Wales at an important stage in their development journey.’

The two Delivery Sites in Wales are positive about the development. Ben O’Connell, Director of Sport at Cardiff Metropolitan University explained:

‘We’re delighted to establish ourselves as one the first TASS Delivery Sites in Wales. It’s an exciting addition to our sport system and our existing NGB partners on campus. Our team of practitioners are looking forward to supporting the athletes to achieve their potential.’

Imelda Phillips, High-Performance Sports Manager at Swansea University said: ‘Through our partnerships with TASS and Sport Wales the landscape is evolving, and we are delighted to be one of the first TASS Delivery sites in Wales, providing a world class location and environment. Whilst this new initiative will ensure our support of high-performance athletes who are aiming for world class programmes, it will also allow us to support the performance lifestyle growth and ambition in Wales.’

A launch event took place earlier in August, explaining to all stakeholders how the support will work, and how it should benefit the eligible athletes. Support starts in September.

Photo credit: Thanks to @HockeyWales