15 June 2005 Mainland Soccer and Lincoln University Sign Scholarships Agreement

 

 

An agreement signed between the University and Mainland Soccer, the federation that covers Canterbury and virtually half of the South Island, opens the way for promising young footballers to join the ranks of scholars from five other codes now studying and sharpening their sporting skills at Lincoln.

 

Vice-Chancellor Professor Roger Field signed for the University and Board Chairman Ron Veitch for Mainland Soccer.

 

One hundred and sixty scholars from cricket, hockey, netball, rugby and golf, are currently enrolled in the Sports Scholarship programme at Lincoln University.

 

The Sports Scholarship scheme was introduced in 1999 and Lincoln University pioneered the concept among New Zealand's universities.

 

The scholarships pay full fees for the minimum duration of a degree course and to retain the awards the scholars must achieve their academic as well as sporting goals. Criteria for the award of a scholarship include academic excellence at school and a high level of sporting achievement e.g. school, age group provincial or national representation.

 

"We are delighted to welcome Mainland Soccer to the programme," says the manager of the scheme at Lincoln University, Geoff Ormandy.

 

"The University's Sports Scholarships have been a 'win-win' opportunity for all concerned. Lincoln University has enjoyed the presence of some wonderfully accomplished sportsmen and sportswomen as students – accomplished both academically and in their sports – and the five participating sports codes have benefited from drawing some outstanding sporting talent to the province."

 

The talent-pulling power of the scholarships appeals to Mainland Soccer CEO Lee Germon, who witnessed the signing of the agreement.

 

"The Soccer Scholarships will add significant appeal to Mainland Soccer," he says. "If the pattern with the other sports is any guide, then the scholarships should act as a magnet to attract suitably qualified players from throughout New Zealand to the Mainland's territory."

 

"Involvement in the programme also gives us something special that we haven't had before to offer our existing players who fit the criteria."

 

"We're hugely excited about it all and look forward to working closely with Lincoln University."

 

The first scholarships will be awarded later this year.