UK Sport Funded Programmes

‍What are the GB Youth & Junior/U23 Squads?

These two programmes are designed for athletes who demonstrate behaviours and abilities aligned to potential future international performance.

The purpose of these camps is to bring together the country’s leading athletes to encourage their growth as a team, drive each other towards higher standards of competition and raise their awareness of how to prepare for international competitions. This environment is a lifter’s next step from the regional squads.

‍Who is the GB Youth & Junior/U23 Squads for?

National Squads are designed for weightlifters who demonstrate early potential to win medals at future Olympic & Commonwealth Games.

- Athletes are usually aged 13-17 for GB Youth and 17-23 for GB Junior & Under 23
- Are making regular progress in their competition total and meeting Olympic Pathway Standards.
- Are leading age-group athletes who role model the importance of effectively applying themselves to their training, support their teammates and are open to learning.
- Athletes are invited to up to 4 squads per year

These squads take place over two days at Nottingham University.

Requirements:

Competition: Compete in at least 4 competitions per year, including their Home Nation Age-Group Championships & British Age-Group Championships

Performance Criteria:

Lifters will be ranked off of the Olympic pathway standards at the age you will turn this year within 12 months (male standards & female standards)

The minimum standard for invitation

Expression of Interest: Athletes not currently on the squad should express interest by completing a form by September 1st and competing in a Tier 3 competition before this date, along with the British or Home Nation Age-Group Championships

Annual Selection: Squads are selected annually in September with a 2^nd intake/reselection from March of the following year.

Engagement: Must attend a minimum of 3 squads per year to maintain squad membership

GB Youth Squad is lead by BWL Lead Pathway Coach Kristian McPhee kristian.mcphee@britishweightlifting

GB Junior & U23 Squad is lead by BWL Head of Performance Stuart Martin stuart.martin@Britishweightlifting.org