UK Sport

International leaders selected for UK Sport programme

Densign White, Chair of the British Judo Association
British Judo Association

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Tim Crooks 28 November 2007

Following a rigorous selection process, thirteen sports administrators from across the UK have been selected to take part in the second year of UK Sport’s unique International Leadership Programme (ILP) in 2008.

UK Sport has selected the participants from a group of individuals nominated by National Governing Bodies of sport and other key stakeholders. Nominating organisations are asked to endorse strong candidates who they believe can help them achieve their international goals and raise the UK’s voice in the international governance arena.

UK Sport’s International Policy Consultant, Ben Calveley, explains; “The aim of the ILP is to ensure the UK continually develops individuals capable of building strong relationships with international sporting federations in a way that enables them to contribute to the global development of sport.”

As well as structured training modules designed to support effective international operators, the course will also offer the participants the chance to absorb advice and guidance from the programme’s well respected mentors and alumni network.

"This is an exciting and thought provoking programme aimed at developing the skills of the participants as future international delegates and committee members,” said Craig Hunter, British Swimming Board Member, and 2007 ILP participant.

“We are uniquely placed to take advantage of the opportunities that will arise over the coming years to influence international sporting policies. The programme will evolve and become stronger as alumni members and participants secure international appointments and help to build future strategies”, he added.

The participants confirmed for the second year of the ILP are:

Mark Simmers – Snowsport GB
Vikki McPherson – UK Athletics
Sue Catton – England Hockey
John Spencer – Rugby Football Union
Nick Pink – Youth Sport Trust
Lindsey Jackson & Steve Barrow – The Football Association
Densign White – British Judo Association
Phil Atwell – British University Sports Association
Zena Wooldridge – England Squash
Charlie Bethel – GB Wheelchair Basketball Association
David Holmes – British Dressage
Charlotte O’Neill – British Swimming

"I am delighted to be a part of UK Sport's International Leadership Programme at such an exciting time for British sport”, said Densign White, Chair of the British Judo Association. “I hope the programme will equip me with the tools to better represent British Judo and gain greater influence within the international bodies we work with. I’m really looking forward to the programme commencing."

During the first module in February, participants will be interactively examining the operating environments of international sporting organisations. Experts from across the international sporting world will be brought in to share experiences and discuss best practice.

Launched in 2006, the ILP is part of UK Sport’s commitment to continuous improvement of world class personnel and is one of a number of unique and tailored people development programmes.

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