Introduction

The University of Lincoln is committed to raising the standard of University sport and a bursary scheme has been established to support athletes in their pursuit of excellence. The bursary scheme will provide access to funding, alongside sport science support from experts in their field. This will be facilitated through the University’s state-of-the-art Human Performance Centre and the impressive on campus sport facilities. The bursary system intends to attract talented sport performers who will enhance the success of the University.

The Sports Bursary scheme aims to realise the individual’s potential both as an academic and as an elite sports performer.

Eligibility and selection criteria

Athletes who are eligible to apply and who may be entitled to bursary support must meet the following criteria:

• You must fulfil the normal academic requirements of the course that you are applying for.

• You would normally participate in a sport that is recognised by Sport England and currently be performing at a National or International level, or be able to demonstrate strong evidence that you have the potential to achieve this standard

• You should be enthusiastically committed to representing the University of Lincoln and supporting student sport.

• You must be prepared to fulfil an ambassadorial role for the University of Lincoln.

What the Athlete Receives

For sports people meeting the criteria there is up to £1,000 per annum available. In addition to this the performer will receive additional benefits that include:

• The provision of free access to University sports facilities (linked to the athletic needs of the individual).

• Normally there is an option for a place in Halls of Residence for each year of study. It is the student’s responsibility to inform estates of their intention to remain in Halls by December.

• Sport Science support including exercise testing, strength and conditioning, nutritional advice and lifestyle management.

• The means to facilitate injury and rehabilitation if required.

• The provision for academic flexibility to support sport representation (at a University, National or International level).

Monitoring the Individual Athletes Performance

The University of Lincoln realises that elite performers have many pressures upon them and in order to assist them in their sporting and academic pursuit each athlete will be appointed a mentor. The mentor will be a key link that provides guidance and support.

As a bursary student you will be required to adhere to the following processes:

• Identify your goals (performance and academic) over the short, medium and long term. This should be put in writing and will form part of the review process with your appointed mentor

• Identify with your mentor a structured and organised training programme

• Complete a training diary that is in a style and format that your mentor approves of (you may already be using a training diary and your mentor would not want to interfere in an already effective system).

• Maintain a competition record and provide evidence of University representation and commitment.

• Regularly review your academic progress with your mentor.

We expect successful athletes to be accountable to the University of Lincoln. The Bursary will not be provided as a lump sum, but will be claimed at key  points in the academic year. The athlete would not be eligible to claim if he/she failed to comply with University Regulations or was not prepared to engage in the monitoring process.

Application process

Prospective University of Lincoln Student

UCAS application form to University of Lincoln                                         Dec/Jan

Bursary application form returned                                                            Mar

UL Academic offer/ Bursary Offer                                                            Mar/Apr

Obtain successful academic results                                                        Aug

Formal bursary agreement signed                                                           Sep

Existing Students*

Contact University of Lincoln Sports Director /Application Form                 Sep

Bursary Committee meet                                                                       Oct

Formal Bursary agreement signed                                                          Oct

*Nb. Applications can also be made during the academic year if high performance occurs within the year and does not coincide with the August deadline. Payments can then be made pro rata.

Instalments

Three bursary payments will be made:

October £300

January £300

May £400

For more details please contact Robin Wright on 01522 885327 or alternatively via email rwright@lincoln.ac.uk