Alumni news

James Meekin

Yasmin Tyson

Time at university is not only about academic learning, so supporting students who excel in other ways is hugely important. We want our students to blossom into fulfilled individuals who become the very best they can be. To this end, here at Sussex we are proud to offer Sports Scholarships to our talented sportsmen and women.

Besides helping to cover the costs associated with travel, accommodation for competitions, and training and equipment, the Scholarships also provide access to sports facilities, strength and conditioning sessions, one-on-one coaching from the team at SussexSport, parking privileges, complimentary memberships and performance support, as well as unique mentoring opportunities and attendance at workshops hosted by world-class athletes. The Scholarships are provided through the Sussex Fund, which is itself supported by donations.

Terence Cooper, Deputy Head of Operations, Fitness and Performance at Sussex Sport oversees the Sports Scholarships scheme. He says:

“The Sports Scholarships scheme, which is only made possible through support from alumni and friends of Sussex, provides an amazing opportunity for our students to continue their pursuit of achieving high performance in both sporting and academic commitments.”

Due to graduate this summer, kickboxer James Meekin received a Sports Scholarship for the duration of his three-year degree course.

James has already become British Champion in two different kickboxing weight categories, he has won numerous open and grand slam events across Europe, and he made a spectacular debut in the world of MMA (mixed martial arts). His achievements so far have qualified him for the Senior European Championships in Athens in November 2024, and he is in preparations for the EUSA University games. James has said his aim is to finish on the podium in Athens, as this will qualify him to compete at the World Games in China next year.

James had this to say about his experience as a Sports Scholar:

"I wasn’t expecting any support as kickboxing wasn’t even a sport England recognised when I arrived at Sussex, but the help I’ve received through the Sports Scholarships scheme has allowed me to pursue my dreams in the sport. I’m now in a position to achieve things I didn’t think possible only a few years ago."

Another Sports Scholar is Yasmin Tyson. A student in the Brighton and Sussex Medical School, Yasmin’s sporting discipline is rowing. Speaking about the benefits of her scholarship, Yasmin says:

“The Scholarship Scheme has given me the support to progress as an athlete far more than I would have done independently. The access to mentoring has helped me manage training and competing with studying, providing motivation to achieve in both. I’ve also been given invaluable opportunities for development, such as taking part in the True Athlete Project’s Global Mentoring Programme.”

For many students, sport, whether recreational or competitive, becomes a significant part of university life and brings opportunities to lead, volunteer and be part of a supportive community.

Find out more about how your gifts to the Sussex Fund support the student experience at Sussex.

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