As part of a new monthly feature, we want to know a little more about the organisations and the individuals that support the work of the Federation.
This month we sat down with Amanda Harton, Director of JLT and related to some pretty good Caribbean swimmers…
Can you tell us a little about how your business partners with the Federation and its members?
We provide insurance advice and solutions to the federation, National Governing Bodies, Sports Clubs and Associations and Individuals involved in Sport in Ireland.
What is one of the issues that you might be able to solve?
One example is we were recently approached by a soccer league who had been trying, unsuccessfully for a couple of years, to develop a Personal Accident facility for their league players and officials.
We were able to design an implement a cost-effective programme which has provided savings to teams across the league and streamlined benefits for all players on the pitch.
What is your personal background in sport?
As a kid, I played every sport I could throughout primary and secondary school. I loved all aspects including the comradery, fitness, competition and getting out of class for matches.
After school, I dropped out for a few years but later found my way back. Since having kids (combined with a full-time job), I don’t have the flexibility to partake in a team sport, but exercise about 3-4 times a week with a mix of Pilates, running, weight training and gym – mainly so I have the energy and focus to keep up with everything else in life.
My daughter is involved in Gymnastics and is joining the academy in our local GAA club in September so I’ve signed up to help out, which I’m really looking forward to.
What do you find most interesting about working in and around the sporting sector?
I find performance really interesting, however, the work being undertaken by our clients around general participation is fantastic, particularly when you consider the strong links between sports participation and general health and wellbeing, including mental health – and the resulting positive impact on the economy.
If you had an open ticket which sporting event around the world would you attend?
I’d go back in time and attend the 2008 Wimbledon Final between Nadal and Federer. I watched at home wishing I was there to see two greats take each other on in such a thrilling match.
And if you could arrange for one victory for a sports team or star that matters to you what would it be?
I’ve cousins swimming for Trinidad and Tobago and I’d love to see them achieve their goals of getting to the next Olympics. Other than that, really for me the victory is in increased participation and seeing kids involved in and benefiting from all that sport has to offer.
