Several of our major sports clubs will benefit from a new initiative launched over the summer.

The Sport and Recreation Department, in conjunction with the Athletic Union have unveiled their Target Sports program.

On a wider scale it is hoped that this program will improve the overall sporting profile of the university.

The benefits for the clubs involved include help in creating a performance environment, and individual and team development through use of the sport science facilities and expertise.

The final key benefit of Target Sports is the development of local links with community clubs in order to attract elite players to the University of Portsmouth.

A number of clubs applied for this facility, however places were limited to five. The program will review the development of these teams following an initial two year period.

All the clubs have distinguished themselves not only through performance and sporting success but also through their off the field infrastructure and expansion.

Dan Tilley, sports development manager explains that "One of the key aims for the University and the Sports department is to develop a nationally recognised sporting profile for the University. For this we need to ensure we focus on sports that we feel can best deliver on our aims".

Congratulations to all the successful teams and Purple Wednesdays will be following their progress throughout the year with interviews and feedback on the success of the program.