A New Era for Local Sport

The States of Guernsey voted unanimously yesterday to support the Committee for Education, Sport & Culture’s Active 8 Plan for Sport.

This is the first time that the island has had a government-backed Sports Strategy.

The Guernsey Sports Commission will be integral to delivering many of the objectives set out in the plan.

‘We are absolutely delighted to have received such comprehensive support for sport from States Members,’ said GSC Chairman Jon Ravenscroft.

‘This really does provide us with a solid platform to take sport forward for the benefit of all members of our community.

‘It is heartening to see so many of our elected representatives recognising the importance of sport for our mental and physical health and the contribution that it will make towards the island’s ability to Revive and Thrive post COVID.

‘The Commission is really excited to play its part in Active 8 which aligns perfectly with our own 5-year Action Plan and it’s now our job to make sure we deliver.

‘I believe the approval of this Strategy gives a really positive message to islanders. This has got to be the best place in the world to live,’ said Jon.

Alderney also stands to benefit from the Active 8 Plan with praise being given during the debate for the work of the Alderney Sports Foundation which is already having an impact on the island.

‘We were really pleased to have the support of the two Alderney Representatives and are looking forward to sharing our own Action Plan with the States of Alderney and wider community,’ said Simon Brazier, Chairman of Trustees of the Alderney Sports Foundation.

‘At this stage our plan focuses on children and young people and is a partnership between ASF, St Anne’s School and the Guernsey Sports Commission. We are excited about being able to take the lead on improving opportunities for the Alderney community to access and partake in a growing range of sports and physical activity both on and off the island. We have a real opportunity to make a huge difference and I’m excited about being able to share our ambitious plans,’ said Simon.

Approval of the Active 8 Plan for Sport unlocks further funding now as well as opening the door for additional investment further down the line.

Many States Members highlighted that it was important that the promises made in the debate were followed through with positive action to ensure that the plan is properly resourced in the future.

‘Guernsey still lags behind many other similar jurisdictions when it comes to government support for sport,’ said Deputy Matt Fallaize, President of the Committee for Education, Sport & Culture.

‘This Assembly has a good record on sport and this Strategy is a significant achievement which we should feel proud to own.

‘The prospects are good for the new Assembly to take this support forward and ensure that the initiatives are prioritised and funded. This is a great day for Sport in Guernsey.’