Talented sportsmen and women from Andover are being encouraged to apply for financial backing as a national athlete support programme returns for a second year with more than £37,000 available.
Snap Fitness, which has a gym in Andover, has reopened applications for its Grassroots to Greatness programme following the inaugural scheme in 2025.
The initiative is aimed at athletes aged 18 and over who live and train in communities around Snap Fitness clubs, giving local competitors the opportunity to secure financial support as they pursue their sporting ambitions.
More than 200 athletes applied when Grassroots to Greatness launched last year, with 12 athletes from across the UK and Ireland ultimately sharing £20,000 in funding.
For 2026/27, Snap Fitness says it is increasing the amount available to more than £37,000 and expanding the support offered to successful applicants.
That could provide an opportunity for athletes from Andover and the surrounding area who are competing at a high level but face the often considerable costs associated with progressing in their sport.
The programme is open to competitors from all sporting disciplines rather than focusing solely on sports which traditionally attract significant sponsorship or funding.
Last year’s successful applicants represented sports including athletics, para sport, endurance events, combat sports, rowing, mountaineering and team sports.
Alongside financial grants, successful applicants in the latest programme will receive access to Snap Fitness facilities, ambassador opportunities, content creation support, media exposure and ongoing promotion.
Sarah Townend, Marketing and Experience Director of Snap Fitness EMEA, said the response to the first year had demonstrated the challenges facing athletes attempting to progress without significant financial backing.
“When we launched Grassroots to Greatness last year, we hoped it would make a genuine difference to athletes who often receive little or no funding despite competing at an incredibly high level,” she said.
“What we didn’t anticipate was just how inspiring the response would be.
“The stories we heard, the determination we witnessed and the journeys we’ve followed over the past year have reinforced why this programme matters.
“That’s why we’re excited to build on the success of year one, giving athletes more opportunities, greater visibility, and the support they need to continue chasing their ambitions.”
For aspiring athletes, the financial demands of progressing through the sporting ranks can extend far beyond training itself, with competition entry fees, equipment and travel among the costs competitors may have to meet while attempting to reach the next level.
Snap Fitness says Grassroots to Greatness has therefore been designed to provide longer-term support rather than simply awarding a one-off financial contribution.
Athletes selected for the programme will also share their experiences through Snap Fitness’ digital channels, documenting training, competitions, setbacks and successes during the year.
Townend added: “Grassroots to Greatness is about much more than funding. It’s about creating opportunities, building confidence and giving athletes a platform to tell their stories.
“Every one of our athletes inspires our members in a different way. Whether they’re competing internationally or striving towards their first major championship, they demonstrate the resilience, commitment and determination that sits at the heart of everything Snap Fitness stands for.
“We’re proud to continue investing in people who embody those values and can’t wait to welcome our next team of athletes.”
With Snap Fitness operating a club in Andover, the programme gives eligible athletes in the local area a route to put themselves forward for the 2026/27 intake.
Applications are now open to athletes aged 18 and over.
Anyone interested in finding out more about the Grassroots to Greatness programme or submitting an application can visit the official Grassroots to Greatness application page.