Published on:
25
April 2013
Clackmannanshire is leading the way nationally in sport.
Within the county rugby, bowling and football partnerships set up have been recognised by the Scottish Rugby Union, Bowls Scotland and the Scottish Football Association.
Convener of Education, Sport and Leisure, Councillor Ellen Forson said: "These national bodies have recognised these partnerships as examples of good practice and are replicating them across Scotland bringing national recognition to Clackmannanshire Council."
Councillors on the Education Committee were delighted with the recognition, which sees the county leading the way forward in a variety of sports nationwide.
The Central Sporting Partnership brings together sports professionals, experts and equipment funded by Sportscotland to provide clear direction for specific sports across Clackmannanshire.
There are seven key sports in the Central Sporting Partnership - rugby, cricket, football, swimming, gymnastics, athletics, golf , plus disability sport. The committee were told there are plans to increase the range of sports throughout 2013.
Councillor Forson added: "The local and regional sports partnerships involve no less than 43 sports clubs - approximately 2905 participants, coaches, volunteers and officials."
In August, last year, no fewer than 68 pupils from the three secondary schools within Clackmannanshire were selected for the Schools of Sport for football and rugby.
Councillor Forson went on: "The pupils get technical skills, advice on nutrition and fitness training four times per week during the school year at the Schools of Sport.
-2-
"The benefits to the young sportsmen and women are huge. It increases their confidence and improves performance. It may also impact on their academic success."
The Education Service has had a vital role to play in supporting the work of the local and regional sports partnerships by ensuring clubs are connected to the pathway.
"Pupil participation in both curricular and extra-curricular activities are delivered in a co-ordinated way by primary PE teachers, Active Schools Co-ordinators, Sports Development staff and coaches. There has also been an increased demand for the range of activities following the success of last years London Olympics," added Councillor Forson.
Clackmannanshire Council's Sports Development team organise an annual programme of festivals and competitions for both primary and secondary schools, which is a key element to the success of the local and regional partnerships. Most of the local competitions are also qualifying events for both regional and national events.
Councillor Forson added: "The Education Service is particularly successful in providing pathways for young people with additional support needs, with the county having representation and medal success in boccia, swimming and athletics."
During the Committee meeting the Century Quaich, the trophy played annually during the RBS Six Nations, between Scotland and Ireland, was on display in the Chambers at Greenfield. The solid silver trophy, worth £50,000, was won by Scotland this year after a 12-8 win over Ireland at Murrayfield on 24th February.
The trophy was also taken around several schools in Clackmannanshire by the Council's Rugby Development officer, Steve Swindall.