The Talented Athlete Scholarship Scheme, or TASS as it is better known, is a Government funded programme that represents a unique partnership between sport and higher and further education.

In 08/09, TASS is redirecting its funding to non olympic sports, paralympic sports and winter olympic sports. As judo is a summer olympic sport, it was originally not in line for any TASS awards this year. However, the case was argued that TASS funded a very important part of judo's performance pathway, which otherwise would not get funded. As a result of this, we are likely to receive 20 TASS awards for at least one more year, which will be allocated in line with the criteria below;

Core TASS selection Criteria:

• Age 16-19 (born 1990, 1991, 1992)

• Meet the TASS educational requirements

• Member of the England Talent Development Junior (-20 years) squad 2008/2009

• training and studying in England

Players who have met the eligibility requirements above will be considered according to the following criteria:

Criteria:

• Performance in the National Championships 2008

• Performances in events in the England Start/Talent Calendar and the BJA Junior Squad Calendar during 2008. Consideration will be given to level of competition, strength of weight category, injury and illness.

• players will be expected to have medalled in National standard competitions during 2008

• Perceived long term potential, taking into consideration factors such as technical, tactical, physical, mental and lifestyle attributes.

Applications:

Following the identification of the England Talent Development Squad in November, applications will be requested from eligible players.

Click here for more information on TASS educational requirements. Click