Supporting Kingston University's Olympic hopefuls

Kingston University's has raised the bar in the lead up to London 2012 with the launch of a new 'Kingston University elite' level of its Sports Performance Programme.

The programme already supports talented individuals from regional representative or senior club level upwards. It aims to balance their academic, sporting and personal lives while studying at the University. Members can access a range of benefits, including academic flexibility, free access to sports facilities and the support of a liaison officer who works with the individual to help them achieve their goals.

The new 'Kingston University elite' level of the scheme has been established to recognise and support students who are likely to be involved in Olympic or Paralympic competition either in 2012 or in the future. As well as receiving all the benefits of the top level of the existing scheme, these athletes will be allocated additional support equivalent to up to £3,000 to go towards sporting expenses related to Olympic or Paralympic qualification or competition.

Two student athletes have been awarded membership of this new level of the scheme as they are currently undergoing qualification for their respective GB teams: Asha Philip: Athletics (100m and 4 x 100m relay) and Leonora Kennedy: Rowing (2,000m Women's Eight).

These athletes are inspirational sports ambassadors, representing their country and our university in front of a global audience at the Games. It is hoped that this extra support will give these students the edge they need to ensure they represent their country at this summer's Games.

Find out more about the programme and view the profiles of Asha and Leonora.