The Recover and Reinvent fund was launched in May 2021 to support not for profit sports clubs or associations facing financial burden and/or loss as a specific result of the COVID-19 pandemic, using funds re-purposed from travels grants, due to sports not being able to travel during the pandemic.

Local sporting organisations could also apply for funding if they were able to demonstrate how the award would be used to adapt their delivery in response to the impact of COVID-19 on their organisation or club.

Applications were considered and assessed by Jersey Sport’s Grants Advisory Committee, with 86% of applications being eligible for the fund.

James Tilley, Head of Sport and Children said, “We’re delighted to be able to enable sport and physical activity to continue positively impact the physical and mental health of islanders through the allocation of this Recover and Reinvent fund. Applications were received by a variety of local sports, requesting assistance and it was great to see the range of delivery initiatives presented.”

One sports organisation that was successful in their application was the Caesarean Tennis Club. They used the funds awarded to pay for fifty per cent of the costs associated with the resurfacing of their tennis courts, which were becoming unplayable. The loss of income in the early months of 2021 due to COVID-19 restrictions meant there was a significant shortfall in the planned refurbishment, and the allocated grant was used to upgrade the surfaces and get players back on the courts.

Sue Holland form the Caesarean Tennis Club said, “On behalf of the committee, staff and members I would like to thank Jersey Sport for granting funds to the club for resurfacing and painting two indoor hard courts. They look great!”

St Clement’s Ladies Golf Club were also successful in their application to the Recover and Reinvent fund. Elizabeth Bird said, “With the grant given by Jersey Sport we have run three very successful events to reinvigorate and increase club membership after a very difficult few years. The club is aiming to celebrate 100 years in 2024 and receiving this grant has certainly given us the determination to reach our centenary.”

Other clubs that were successful in receiving funding were: First Tower Institute, Jersey Air Rifle Club, Jersey Drag Hunt and Chase Club, Jersey Gymnastics Club, Jersey Irish GAA Club, Jersey Rowing Club, Jersey Rugby Club, Jersey Football Association, Les Mielles Tennis, St Brelade’s Small Bore Rifle Club and St Saviour’s Bowls Club.