Cumbrian clubs are being urged to take advantage of a £50k Fund for grassroots sports clubs launched by Fibrus Broadband which has already given a massive boost to a west Cumbrian karate club.
The Play it Forward Fund, now in its second year, offers up to £1,000 per club to help with equipment, kits, improving facilities and subsiding training fees.
Since it was launched last year, around 20 organisations in Cumbria have received grants, including Yokai Kami Karate club who can now train to compete in national and international competitions thanks to the Fund.
The Fund is designed to help children switch off from their devices, get active and have fun.
Linda McMillan, Chief People Officer at Fibrus, said: “Investing in local communities is one of our core missions at Fibrus and our Play it Forward Fund allows us to play a vital role in improving the health and wellbeing of children.
“Sports and clubs are intrinsic to the communities in which we operate, and we are committed to supporting these communities wholly, through both digital connectivity, but also to ensure clubs have access to essential funds to support children’s sports in their area.
“After such a good response to the Fund last year, we are delighted to continue this initiative in 2024 to support grassroots community sports organisations. We are looking forward to the positive impact it will have on local communities in the upcoming year”.
Support from the Fund means that children at the Yokai Kami Karate club, which trains in both Aspatria and Maryport, have been able to train to compete in a range of competitions. Next month they will be taking part in the Northern Open Classic in Manchester and are hoping to compete in the European finals in Cyprus later this year.
This follows on from their success last year in sending two members to represent England in the European Karate Championships in Belgium last year.
The club has been able to compete in the prestigious tournaments after it was given £1000 from the Play it Forward Fund to buy the compulsory equipment needed to participate in national competitions and Wado-Kai England squad training.
The growth of the Yokai Kami Karate club is down to the dedication of karate instructor Lauren Crawford who is determined to give opportunities to Cumbrian children that she did not have – forcing her to travel out of the county to train.
Lauren said: “Fibrus’ support has enabled local children to attend not only national competitions but, through monthly Wado Kai England squad attendance, to represent England in the European Karate Championship last November.”
Jake Ainley, nine, and Nayah McDonald, 10, were selected to join the England team at the event in Belgium.
Lauren added: “Yokai Kami Karate focuses on grassroots development and inclusivity, inspiring individuals from all backgrounds to strive for excellence.
“The club’s initiatives not only promote physical activity over screen time but also foster cultural exchange through travel opportunities.”
They’re currently waiting to find out if other Yokai Kami students have been selected to represent England at the 2024 European Championship in Cyprus in October.
“These opportunities have been opened to more of our students due to the funding Fibrus awarded,” said Lauren.
The Play it Forward 2024 initiative comes shortly after Fibrus announced £120,000 of funding available across Northern Ireland and Cumbria through the Fibrus Community Fund, to alleviate digital poverty, underlining the broadband provider’s commitment to the local community.
The next round of Play it Forward funding is now open and will close on the 5th of July 2024.
Sports clubs across Cumbria and Northern Ireland can apply to the £50,000 fund via www.fibrus.com.
