John Hayward Athlete Support Fund: Applications Open
- Apr 13
- 3 min read
Applications are now open for the third round of athlete funding for the John Hayward Athlete Support Fund.
After a successful launch in 2024, British Ice Skating are pleased to once again host the Athlete Support Fund through a donation made by The John Hayward Memorial Challenge. The fund was set up ‘to support up and coming skaters to reach their potential within figure skating and help reduce financial barriers associated with competitive skating’. Thanks to the John Hayward Memorial Challenge Charity, this funding will be made available via British Ice Skating.
Now in its third year, we are excited to invite new and previous applicants (including those who were awarded a grant) to put themselves forward for this year’s funding opportunity.
About John Hayward
When John Hayward was growing up, he was a lively, exuberant youngster, always full of fun and laughter; when he discovered ice skating, the sheer joy of performing and entertaining on skates became the focus of his life.
His family supported and encouraged him as he worked hard, not just on the ice but, once he became old enough, in various jobs to help pay for extra training, extra practice time and additional equipment such as stilts (yes stilts - he used them in one of his on-ice gala performances!)
Sadly, shortly after celebrating his 30th birthday the family were devastated to learn of John's untimely death in France. The words that sprang to mind for all who knew and worked with him were ‘what a waste. A waste of talent - and of a vibrant young life!' It was John’s zest for life, love of performing and dedication to his skating that prompted the family to set up the Fund and here we are now, helping to bring it to the BIS Membership.
About the John Hayward Memorial Challenge
The charity’s sole aim is to support a child's willingness to learn a recreational activity when there are limited funds available. The charity was established in the name of John Hayward, a young man who had a passion for ice skating. John’s journey to become a world class ice performer was supported by hard work and love. For so many, it wasn’t easy. The Trust's aim is not to make learning easy, but to provide the access to the necessary skills and equipment when they are not available in your local area.
In this third funding cycle, there are 6 individual awards of £500 to be presented to skaters. Please see the criteria and application form below.
Funding Details
6 awards of £500 will be made to selected athletes to support their competitive skating.
To be spent within 12 months of the funds being awarded.
The funds must be spent on:
Skating equipment
Training camps
Competition entries
Skating related travel expenses
Additional skating related learning opportunities
Eligibility Criteria
Athletes applying for the fund must meet the eligibility criteria below:
Aged between 7 - 14 years (sporting age).
Minimum Skating level:
7-8 years old (sporting age): BIS level 1 skills.
9-11 years old (sporting age): BIS level 3 skills.
12 – 14 years old (sporting age): BIS level 5 skills.
Must be in full-time education (a requirement of the charity).
Hold valid BIS membership.
Not be serving any suspensions relating to Anti-Doping or disciplinary offences.
Application and Selection
To apply, complete an application form and submit it to Andrew.Hibberd@iceskating.org.uk by 11th May.
Applications that are incomplete or received after the deadline will not be considered for funding. However, this does not mean that you cannot reapply for the next funding cycle.
The Selection Panel will be made up of representatives of British Ice Skating - across all Figure Skating disciplines and will be announced before the close of applications.
Selection will be based on the following criteria:
The need for financial support to continue training and competitive opportunities.
Results and progression through British Ice Skating pathways and Club competitions.
Got any questions or need any assistance with your application? Just get in touch with Andrew Hibberd on Andrew.Hibberd@iceskating.org.uk
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