The University of Ulster has secured a prestigious London 2012 ‘Inspired by’ mark in recognition of its sports outreach work with local community groups and schools.
The ‘Inspired by’ mark is an official 2012-related brand that is awarded for outstanding projects and events inspired by the London 2012 Games. It is viewed as a sign of excellence and best practice in the sports sector.
This is the fourth time The Olympic and Paralympic Legacy Unit has recognised the work of Ulster’s Sports Outreach Unit. Three Inspire marks were previously awarded to the Unit for various programmes in the lead up to the 2012 Olympic Games.
The Sport Outreach Unit’s most recent programme, Youth Engagement through Sport (YES) helped 42 young men aged 13-18 years old, to complete and pass Continuous Personal and Professional Development (CPPD) programmes at the University of Ulster. A further 60 are expected to commence the YES programme this week.
Professor Deirdre Brennan, Director of the Sports Outreach Unit said:
“As the Sochi 2014 Winter Olympics and Paralympics begin in Russia, we have an opportunity to reinforce the legacy, and show how sport can be used to improve and enhance the lives of disadvantaged or underrepresented communities.
“To be awarded the ‘Inspired by’ mark for our Unit’s work is a testament to the expertise and personal commitment of the staff and student volunteers at Ulster’s Sports Outreach Unit.
“Over the past 18 months we have been developing flagship programmes that encourage young people in Northern Ireland to engage in sport. Our aim is to raise their confidence levels, increase aspirations and open up the world of higher education to young people who may have believed it was out of their reach.”