Free Access for County Sports People (FACS)


Mission Statement

The Hampshire FACS scheme is an important sports development initiative which aims to provide County level performers the support and encouragement they require to help them reach their full potential.

Aim

To provide limited free access to a number of the County's sport and leisure facilities at designated times at the convenience of the providers for personal training and development.

Eligibility

The scheme will provide opportunities for sports people between the ages of 16-18 who currently perform at county level or above.

Criteria

  1. Currently a member of a county team/squad
  2. Between the ages of 16-18
  3. Sports supported by the FACS scheme are:  Archery, Athletics, Badminton, Baseball/softball, Basketball, Boccia, Boxing, Canoeing, Cricket, Cycling, Equestrian, Fencing, Girls Football, Gymnastics, Hockey, Judo, Lacrosse, Modern Pentathlon, Mountaineering, Netball, Rowing, Rugby Union, Sailing, Skiing, Squash, Swimming, Table Tennis, Tennis, Triathlon, Volleyball.  All summer and winter Olympic & Paralympic disciplines not listed are also eligible.

If you meet the above criteria, and reside in a Local Authority that operates the scheme you could be eligible for FACS. Evidence of confirmation of your involvement at county level will be required from the appropriate County Team Manager of governing body of sport.

Operational Guidelines

  1. Each FACS member will be entitled to free use of facilities of their choice at the convenience of the centre manager, when open, provided there is no disruption to other users and no additional cost is incurred:  e.g. floodlighting.
  2. FACS members will choose their top three facilities in order of preference.  For a full list of available facilities, please see link below.
  3. FACS members will be allowed a maximum of 3 visits per identified facility per week.
  4. Membership of the FACS scheme is renewable every twelve months, pending continued sports performance at county level.
  5. FACS members will be allowed one free training partner if the sport enquires and/or a personal coach if applicable.
  6. Members and their parents/guardians are responsible for ensuring that the use of facilities are both safe and appropriate.
  7. Once you have received your FACS card you should contact your designated leisure facility to discuss practical arrangements for use during off-peak times.

Application Process

If you are interested in joining the FACS scheme, then please complete the application form and return it to: FACs, Sport Hampshire & IOW, Mottisfont Court, High Street, Winchester. SO23 8ZF.

Please include two passport sized photos and evidence to confirm/support you involvement in sport at a county level (e.g. letter from County Team Manager or NGB Officer)

Your membership card will then be sent out to you.  Once you have received your FACS card you should contact your designated leisure facility to discuss practical arrangements for use during off-peak times.

Renewals

If would like to renew your membership to the scheme, please do the following:

  • Return your card to: Sport Hampshire & IOW, Mottisfont Court, High Street, Winchester. SO23 8ZF
  • Provide evidence of your continued sporting performance in accordance to the criteria set out above. This must be in the form of a letter of support from your Governing Body of Sport.  If still eligible, you will receive your new membership card within 2 weeks.

Details of all FANS/FACS facilities available here