Athlete Panel launched

England Athletics is delighted to announce the creation of an athlete representative panel which will provide feedback, advice and support England Athletics and the Board with key areas impacting domestic competition and participation in the sport.

The Athlete Panel aims to represent ‘the voice’ of competitive athletes taking part in all disciplines and event groups at every level of competition.

Former Great Britain athlete and Olympic, world, and European medallist Marilyn Okoro, England Athletics’ UK Athletics nominated Board Director, said:

“The athlete voice is always a powerful one to include in conversations and collaborations about our sport. The England Athletics Athlete Panel presents a real opportunity to give English athletes a seat at the table to help influence decision-making that impacts the entire athletics community. I am personally very excited and committed to supporting this initiative and ensuring athletes are set up for success and know that they can speak up, be seen and influence change.”

Sarah Benson, Head of Talent at England Athletics, said:

“This is an important group for developing our sport and addressing some key challenges such as preventing early drop-out and providing excellent competition opportunities for every level of athlete. We want athletes taking part in the sport have a say in helping shape the future and offer ideas to ensure athletics and running is accessible, fun and provides all our members with great competition experiences. The Athlete Panel will connect athletes and runners with key groups leading and delivering athletics and running across England.”

The process for athletes to apply to join the Athlete Panel will be open over the summer. The closing date for applications is Sunday 3 September. Interviews will be held on 18 and 19 September.

• Access the Terms of Reference and the application process.

For an informal discussion about the England Athletics Athlete Panel, please contact Sarah Benson sbenson@englandathletics.org.