We are incredibly proud to share that Infinity Boat Club has been officially announced by British Rowing as one of six new Partner Academies.
Following a three-stage selection process earlier this year, British Rowing has named Agecroft Rowing Club, City of Bristol Rowing Club, Fulham Reach Boat Club, Infinity Boat Club, Mersey Rowing Club and Tyne Amateur Rowing Club as Partner Academies, joining the original pilot programme at Leeds Rowing Club.
The Partner Academies programme aims to identify and nurture young talent, providing aspiring junior rowers with the coaching, support and pathways needed to progress towards high-performance rowing. Inclusion sits at the heart of the programme from the outset — welcoming athletes from communities currently underrepresented in our sport, including those from ethnically diverse communities, lower-income households, and those with impairments that meet Paralympic classifications.
As a Partner Academy, Infinity Boat Club will receive funding, equipment and additional British Rowing coaching support to help grow our junior membership and raise performance standards. We will also join British Rowing's wider Performance Development Academy network, connecting us with other clubs, coaches and expertise to support the development of talented young rowers in Teesside.
Nathaniel Reilly-O'Donnell, Director of Development at British Rowing, said:
"One of the most encouraging things about developing this programme has been seeing just how many clubs put their hands up to be part of it. There is a real appetite across the rowing community not just to see change, but to help shape it."
"This is about more than finding the next generation of champions. It's about building a talent system that draws on the full potential of the nation, with clubs and communities playing a leading role in shaping that future."
The programme is supported by funding from Sport England and The National Lottery — a belief that when we provide the right environment, talent from every background can achieve world-leading success.
This announcement is a huge moment for everyone involved with Infinity Boat Club: our athletes, coaches, volunteers, partner schools and supporters. It recognises the passion and commitment this community has shown since day one to making rowing a sport where everyone belongs, and it opens the door for even more young people in Teesside to discover rowing and reach their potential.
You can read the full announcement on the British Rowing website.