Award-winning charity Sport Aberdeen hosted a special sporting extravaganza to encourage young children to stay active throughout school holidays.
Active Schools Aberdeen, part of Sport Aberdeen, yesterday (Wednesday 19 February) hosted a free sporting festival at Kincorth Sport Centre for children in the community from primary one to three.
Active Schools is sportscotland’s national initiative that aims to get more children, more active, more often.
The participants took part in several sporting activities throughout the morning working in teams, allowing them to meet new children whilst getting active.
One of the children who took part in the festival, said:
“My favourite thing was the assault course, I liked jumping off the stand onto the big mat!”
The event was organised by Active Schools coordinators with help from several Robert Gordon University students currently carrying out work placements with Sport Aberdeen as part of the Aberdeen Youth Games partnership.
Graeme Dale, Sport Aberdeen Head of Sport and Active Communities, said:
“By organising free sporting events such as this we can ensure that more children and young people have the opportunity to engage in sort and physical activity more often, particularly during school holidays, whilst meeting people and making new friends.
“The event was also a brilliant chance for the students here on placement with Sport Aberdeen to try their hand at running, delivering and organising sporting events within the community, giving them real hands on experience for a future within the sporting sector.”
Dr Katherine Burgess, Sport and Exercise Science Academic Team Lead, Robert Gordon University, said:
“RGU’s partnership with Sport Aberdeen gives our BSc(hons) Sport Coaching students a fantastic experience to allow them to develop and enhance their skills, it also gives them the opportunity to enthuse and inspire young people as we strive to work together to make the nation more active”
Registered charity Sport Aberdeen has been shortlisted as a finalist in the ‘Team Aberdeen’ category at this year’s HEART Awards.
The annual HEART Awards, organised by Aberdeen City Health & Social Care Partnership, recognise people working and volunteering in health and social care in Aberdeen and aim to have ‘exceptional achievement recognised together’.
The Active Lifestyles programme, run by Sport Aberdeen, has been shortlisted and recognised for being heavily involved in several collaborative initiatives and programmes over the years.
The programme provides inclusive opportunities for everyone to get active and participate in physical activity regardless of whether they are starting out, recovering from injury, living with a long-term health condition or are older adults.
Of note, the co-design and delivery of the ‘Carers Stable and Able Group’, which runs on a weekly basis with support from NHS Occupational Therapy staff has been recognised.
The new and innovative approach to delivering classes for both carers and the ones they care for was developed in response to a need identified by NHS Grampian colleagues. The Carers Stable and Able classes allow both participants to take part in the sessions which are designed for those who have previously taken part in a 12-week rehabilitation class delivered by the NHS.
The ongoing support from Sport Aberdeen enables people to continue to exercise within a community setting, reducing their risk of a fall and the potential for re-referral back to NHS services.
The awards ceremony will take place on Friday 27 March, at the Aberdeen Beach Ballroom.
Keith Gerrard, Sport Aberdeen Director of Healthy and Active Lifestyles, said:
“I am thrilled that Sport Aberdeen has been recognised and shortlisted for an award at this year’s event. The nomination is testament to the incredible work that is carried out by the Active Lifestyles team throughout the year.
“Through the many projects, services, programmes and events that the organisation works on in partnership with others, we truly believe that we can help to change lives through sport and physical activity.”
We join with the rest of the organisations in the city who are saddened to hear of the closure of the Doubletree Treetops Hotel and the 7 Health & Fitness Health Club. We want to see if we can help by offering employment opportunities and we would encourage the staff to get in touch in regards to vacancies that we have in our facility network across the city.
We also realise that many regular users have lost access to the fitness club, possibly having paid in advance, so we are offering the opportunity for people to transfer to a Sport Aberdeen Get Active membership. We will give everyone the first month free who wants to join us and there will be other benefits as we are keen to help people stay active.
We also understand many people will have lost access to swimming lessons and again will offer free introductory lessons for anyone who would like to transfer onto the Aquatics Aberdeen programme, run by Sport Aberdeen.
Alistair S. Robertson, Sport Aberdeen Managing Director, said: “Our thoughts are with everyone who has been affected and we hope our charity can offer some support, whether to staff or regular users of the 7 Health & Fitness Health Club and I encourage people to get in touch through our office.”
All those interested in talking to a member of the Sport Aberdeen HR team about potential employment opportunities should contact 01224 507704.
For all Get Active membership options please contact 01224 507711 and for enquiries into the Aquatics Aberdeen programme please call 01224 047934.
We encourage people to get in touch before the end of February.
Free coaching clinics to support school sport in Aberdeen
Active Schools Aberdeen, part of registered charity Sport Aberdeen, will host a series of training and development courses aimed at volunteer sports coaches in schools who are interested in improving their skills.
This series of free coaching clinics will be offered throughout February, after a hugely successful delivery last year, and are designed to engage with the local school sporting community, supporting everyone to deliver the highest possible standard of coaching across the city.
Sport Aberdeen has brought together Regional Development Managers and sport clubs who, along with Active Schools Aberdeen Coordinators, will run and deliver a number of free training sessions for pupils, parents and teachers who volunteer in extra-curricular programmes.
Keith Gerrard, Sport Aberdeen Director of Healthy and Active Communities, said:
“From teachers, coaches and volunteers to young leaders, senior pupils and parents, it is my hope that this free opportunity will be seized to brush up on skills, or pursue a passion, which will in turn be passed on to inspire participants.”
The clinics are aimed at helping anyone who is interested in coaching in schools within Aberdeen. Participants will gain valuable insight and helpful tips from qualified coaches. The sessions are being delivered citywide in order to engage with as many people as possible, all completely free of charge.
Mr Gerrard continued:
“These clinics are for anyone who is looking to either get their foot in the door in a particular sport, or even just to freshen up their ideas with tips and useful information around best practice for effective delivery of sports coaching in schools.
“Sport Aberdeen recognises the importance of supporting the sporting voluntary sector and is committed to creating opportunities for more people to get active, whether that be through participation or leading sessions themselves.”
All the sessions are free of charge and bookable via the Sport Aberdeen website: https://bit.ly/2OH0ATw
Last week we waved off Special Olympics Grampian Area (SOGA) athletes who are currently representing Grampian in the Special Olympics GB National Alpine Skiing Competition in Switzerland. You may have seen Emily Plant’s story on BBC Nine last week – https://www.bbc.co.uk/programmes/p081y93s
We are thrilled to share that she won gold in the Giant Slalom event yesterday!
The event involved skiers racing down through gates spaced apart. The weather was challenging, with wind and heavy snow, but the competitors did well and stuck it out to carry on. Emily was racing for Grampian and came 1st in her category of intermediate division 2, winning herself a gold medal. She did so well in fact that she has been moved up a division, to female division 1, meaning she will face even tougher competition on the next couple of days! Follow her story here over the next week!
Emily commented on her triumph yesterday:
“I went for the win and I got gold! The race went very well. I loved going fast through the gates.
The rest of the team did really well in their races too. I’m really happy for everyone!”
Today (Wednesday) will see the Super Giant Slalom, regarded as a speed event, and we are excited to see how Emily and the rest of the athletes get on.
Beth Woodall, Adventure Aberdeen Snowsports Senior Instructor, who is in Switzerland with the athletes, commented on yesterday’s win:
“We are all so proud of the competitors, there were really tough conditions and I think the Swiss all thought we were mad battling through the elements!
“We won a number of medals in gold silver and bronze with some very close results so we’re looking forward to the next couple of days with the Super G and Slalom. Best of all everyone came off the hill with smiles!”
Registered charity Sport Aberdeen runs an additional support needs pathway programme at Adventure Aberdeen Snowsports where SOGA athletes train on a Wednesday. If you are interested in participating in the programme, please email snowsports@sportaberdeen.co.uk
North-east gym and fitness users are set to receive even greater membership benefits thanks to an initiative providing free access to leisure facilities across Scotland.
Award-winning charity Sport Aberdeen has joined the ‘Leisure Link Partnership’, giving its members access to gym, public swimming and fitness classes at participating leisure facilities across Scotland, at no extra cost to their existing membership.
From Monday 3rd February, Sport Aberdeen members will be able to get active at participating venues in Orkney, Moray, the Highlands, Western Isles, Argyll and Bute and the Borders.
David Selkirk, Sport Aberdeen Director of Community Leisure Operations, said:
“Sport Aberdeen prides itself on the services we offer within the city so being able to extend that offering of quality leisure facilities across the country, in association with like-minded leisure trusts, is something that we are excited to present to our members.
“We hope the added value that this partnership brings to our membership encourages people to keep up with a healthy and active lifestyle whether on holiday in Scotland or away for work.”
Sport Aberdeen are also offering a free month of membership to all who sign up for a Get Active 1-5, Active Futures or Active Lifestyles 65+ membership before the end of February.
For more information visit www.sportaberdeen.co.uk/leisure-link-partnership
As cycling enthusiasts and frequent visitors to Sport Aberdeen, you may find yourself dreaming of the iconic Tour de France route with your family. Why not combine your passion for cycling & family with a memorable holiday at one of Siblu’s family-friendly holiday parks? In this blog post, we’ll explore how you can enjoy the thrill of the Tour de France while relaxing in comfort at Siblu parks along the route.
Discovering the Tour de France Route
The Tour de France is not just a cycling race; it’s an adventure through some of the most stunning landscapes in France. The 2024 route promises to be exhilarating, featuring challenging climbs, picturesque villages, and vibrant cities. Here are some Siblu holiday parks that are perfectly situated along the route:
1. Siblu Les Rives de Condrieu
Located near Saint Vulbas, this park is an excellent spot to kick off your Tour de France experience. With beautiful views of the Rhône River and easy access to local cycling routes, it’s perfect for both relaxation and adventure.
2. Siblu Les Oyats
Situated close to Pau, this park provides a great opportunity to experience the stunning Pyrenees. After a day on your bike, unwind at the park’s facilities or enjoy the local cuisine.
3. Siblu Mar Estang
Located near Gruissan, this park is ideal for those who want to combine beach time with cycling. Explore coastal paths and enjoy the Mediterranean sun before returning to your comfortable holiday home.
4. Siblu Lac des Rêves
Close to Nîmes, this park offers a serene setting with a beautiful lake. It’s perfect for leisurely rides and exploring the surrounding countryside.
5. Siblu Le Montourey
Near Nice, this park is a fantastic choice for those wanting to experience the final stages of the Tour de France. Enjoy breathtaking coastal views and vibrant city life while being just a short ride away from the race.
Planning Your Cycling Adventure
When planning your trip along the Tour de France route, consider these tips:
- Route Planning: Research each stage of the race and map out your cycling routes accordingly. Ensure that you have enough time to explore each area.
- Book in Advance: Siblu parks can fill up quickly during peak season, especially during major events like the Tour de France. Secure your accommodation ahead of time.
- Local Attractions: Take advantage of local attractions in each region, from wine tasting in the Loire Valley to exploring historic sites in Nice.
Conclusion
Combining a cycling adventure along the Tour de France route with stays at Siblu holiday parks offers an unforgettable experience for both avid cyclists and families alike. With comfortable accommodations and convenient locations, you can focus on enjoying your ride while creating lasting memories with loved ones.
So gear up for an exciting journey in 2024! Start planning your trip today and make sure to check out Siblu’s fantastic parks along the way. Happy cycling!
A group of athletes with additional support needs who train at Adventure Aberdeen Snowsports, run by registered charity Sport Aberdeen, will jet off to Switzerland this week to compete in a national competition.
Special Olympics Grampian Area (SOGA) will be travelling as a team, representing Grampian, to Crans Montana in Switzerland next week to compete in the Special Olympics GB National Alpine Skiing Competition (1-8 February).
SOGA train weekly as part of the wider additional support needs (ASN) programme at Adventure Aberdeen Snowsports, run by Sport Aberdeen.
Each competition year, clubs have the opportunity to bid to host the Special Olympics Nationals Competition. Special Olympics Grampian won the bid to host this year and chose Crans Montana as the destination.
Sport Aberdeen runs an additional support needs pathway programme at Adventure Aberdeen Snowsports for anyone from age four and over and partner with Special Olympics Grampian to provide opportunities for eligible athletes to take part in Special Olympics registered events.
Beth Woodall, Adventure Aberdeen Snowsports’ Senior Instructor, who will be travelling with the team to Switzerland on Saturday, said:
“We are extremely proud of all the participants on our ASN programme and especially excited for the Special Olympics athletes heading off to compete in Switzerland next week.
“We run ski lessons for individuals with additional support needs from first time beginners right through to competitive athletes and this range in ability and age is a fantastic way to inspire participants to push themselves.
“The sessions aim to offer an alternative pathway to our mainstream programme to provide everyone the opportunity to get involved with snowsports and experience the fun and sense of accomplishment that comes with it”.
Keith Gerrard, Sport Aberdeen Director of Healthy and Active Communities said:
“The great work that the staff at Adventure Aberdeen Snowsports carries out indicates how Sport Aberdeen endeavour to provide opportunities to take part in sport and physical activity, regardless of age or ability. The range of coaching programmes available are vital tools in enabling everyone in the north-east to lead a healthy and active lifestyle.
“Offering additional support needs sessions, not just as a separate pathway but as a means of entering mainstream programming and to progress onto a competitive level, is an incredibly powerful way of encouraging people to push themselves whilst highlighting the inclusive nature of sport. On behalf of Sport Aberdeen, I would like to wish everyone the best of luck for the upcoming Nationals!”
Adrienne Purdie, Special Olympics Great Britain Alpine Skiing National Competition Event Director, said:
“After 15 months of planning, the Grampian event committee are looking forward to hosting the Special Olympics GB Alpine Skiing Nationals next week in Crans Montana.
“90 athletes from 11 regions over Great Britain are travelling to Switzerland to compete. We are looking forward to a great week both on and off the slopes.”
The athletes competing train on a Wednesday, 19:00 – 20:00, at Adventure Aberdeen Snowsports, part of registered charity Sport Aberdeen. For more information on how to get involved or sign up to the pathway programme, please click here —- www.sportaberdeen.co.uk/adventure-aberdeen-snowsports —— or email snowsports@sportaberdeen.co.uk
Get your kids active in the Easter holidays with Sport Aberdeen
Sport Aberdeen Easter holiday camps are now available to book citywide, ranging from Get Active Kids Camps to Tennis & Multi-Activity Camps and Intensive Swim Classes to our ever popular Adventure Aberdeen Monster Camps.
Regardless of what your little ones are into, there is something to suit everyone at Sport Aberdeen’s Easter holiday camps.
An unwavering string of award successes in 2019 has firmly cemented Sport Aberdeen’s place on the national radar as one of the best Leisure Trusts in Scotland.
The registered charity is the largest provider of sport and fitness venues and opportunities in the north-east of Scotland, with one simple goal of getting more people active regardless of age or ability. Sport Aberdeen differs from other sports and leisure providers as all profits are reinvested back into the communities, projects and people that it serves.
Everything that the charity has achieved has been tested against an array of the very best services, projects and programmes of their type on a local, national and UK scale.
From showcasing the best in fitness equipment and state-of-the-art transformational community projects, to shining a spotlight on the people; staff and volunteers, who allow Sport Aberdeen to continue to thrive in its sector, every aspect of the charity has been celebrated and recognised throughout 2019.
To top off a very positive and successful year, Sport Aberdeen received the Queen’s Award for Voluntary Service, the highest award a charity or voluntary group can receive in the UK.
Alistair S Robertson, Sport Aberdeen Managing Director, commented on the recent successes saying:
“It fills me with a great sense of pride to be a part of such an exceptional charity, and one that has proven it is making a positive difference to the lives of people in the north-east through the hard work that is carried out day after day.
“The success over the last year is testament not only to the dedication and hard work of all our employees, volunteers and board members, but also to what we stand for as a business.
“It has been a record-breaking year in terms of award successes and this public recognition serves as an indicator that Sport Aberdeen has cemented its place on the national radar as one of the best Leisure Trusts in Scotland.”
Winning people, programmes and projects:
Community Leisure UK Awards: Get active @ Sheddocksley won the much-coveted ‘Leisure Capital Project of the Year Award’, a simply staggering achievement for the Granite City facility which was transformed following a £300,000 investment in 2018.
Fifteen-year-old Aimee Work, Chair of the Active Girls Committee, deservedly won the ‘Outstanding Individual Volunteer Award’.
The Sport Aberdeen Aquatics Aberdeen Team were also finalists in the ‘Workforce Development Award’ category at the Community Leisure UK Awards.
Elevator Awards: Sport Aberdeen scooped the top spot in the ‘Enterprising Communities’ category despite strong local competition.
Sport Aberdeen’s commitment to making positive changes within the communities in which it operates and its dedication to creating opportunities, was recognised with a focus placed on the transformation of Get active @ Sheddocksley.
Northern Star Business Awards: Proving that employees really are the heartbeat of Sport Aberdeen, the charity took home the ‘Staff Matter’ award at this year’s celebration of the exceptional accomplishments of organisations across the north-east.
Society Awards: Sport Aberdeen triumphed over local fitness providers to take on the title of Leisure/ Fitness Facility of the Year at the glittering, inaugural awards ceremony, celebrating the best that Aberdeen has to offer from eateries, shops, beauty salons and leisure providers.
sportscotland Coaching, Officiating & Volunteering Awards 2019: Out of over 340 nominations across 15 categories that were received, Aimee Work was named the ‘Young Volunteer of the Year’.
The Cherries Awards: The HR & Organisational Development team were finalists in the ‘Exceptional Employee Engagement’ category while Nickie Scorgie, Head of the department, was nominated for the ‘Mike Reid Community Award’.
ukactive Awards: Get active @ Sheddocksley was nominated as a finalist for the ‘Regional Club of the Year’ award at the star-studded national event.
Celebrate Aberdeen Awards: Sport Aberdeen was up for ‘Large Organisation of the Year’ and was also nominated as the third sector partner in ‘Corporate Partnership of the Year’ alongside local charity We Too!.
Scottish Swimming Awards: Sport Aberdeen’s Aquatics team were finalists in the ‘Learn to Swim Provider of the Year’ category, a title which they triumphantly took home in 2017.
Above: An assortment of Sport Aberdeen accolades.
Below: Nickie Scorgie, Head of HR and Organisational Development at the Northern Star Business Awards where Sport Aberdeen took home the Staff Matter award.