FACTS & FIGURES

WHAT? The EIS is a nationwide network of regional support teams offering world class services to our elite athletes. Services supplied throughout this network include applied physiology, biomechanics, medical consultation, medical screening, strength and conditioning coaching, nutritional advice, performance analysis, physiotherapy, psychology, podiatry, sports massage and sports vision, and career and education advice.

WHO? The EIS is chaired by Steve Cram, former world mile record holder and Olympic medallist. National Director, Wilma Shakespear, helped develop the Australian Institute. National Medical Director, Dr Rod Jaques heads up the network of EIS medical support. Paul Smith oversees sports science. The nine regional managers have been chosen for their complementary talents. They and their regional teams have direct contact with athletes in the World Class Performance, Potential and Start programmes.

WHERE? The EIS services are delivered from nine regions, which feature multi-sport hub sites supported by satellite operations. Hub sites include - Bisham Abbey National Sports Centre, Gateshead International Stadium, Birmingham’s High Performance Centre, Bath University, Loughborough University, Sportcity Manchester, Sportspark UEA, EIS Sheffield, St Mary’s College Twickenham. The facilities are funded by the Sport England Lottery Fund and operated by a range of partners.

WHY? A recent Sport England survey suggested we were 20 years behind Australia in sports development, and 15 years behind the French. The EIS meets the need for a dynamic, pro-active, organisation to redress the balance. It coordinates support to world class performers, and cooperates with a range of strategic partners, including national governing bodies, performance directors, and coaches.

WHEN? The EIS is entering its forth year. It services nearly 3000 elite athletes from 30 sports and follows the principles laid down in the EIS national Framework.

The immediate task is to add value to sports in the build up to Athens but the EIS has a long term vision of a co-ordinated, cohesive approach to the Beijing Games in 2008.