Elite Athlete Funding
The Elite Athlete Fund was created to help support athletes and families attending high-level competitions and qualifying events such as Eastern Championships, National Championships, Elite Canada, international events, and other incredible opportunities. Through community fundraising initiatives and committee-led efforts, Rideau is proud to help athletes continue pursuing their goals on bigger stages.
Congratulations on Qualifying
We know the amount of dedication, training hours, travel, and family support it takes to qualify beyond the provincial level, and we are incredibly proud of our Rideau athletes for reaching this stage.
While funding is not guaranteed, the Fundraising Committee will do its best to support approved athletes whenever possible. Current funding goals aim to provide a minimum contribution of approximately $100 per approved athlete, depending on available funds and applications received.
How Funding Works
The Rideau Fundraising Committee allocates a portion of overall fundraising proceeds toward the Elite Athlete Fund each season. Applications are reviewed by the committee and distributed based on eligibility, available funds, and the number of qualifying athletes during the year.
Who Is Eligible?
Athletes may be eligible for Elite Athlete Funding if they:
- Compete in a Rideau competitive program
- Have qualified for an event beyond the provincial level
- Have completed volunteer hour requirements or buyout obligations for the season
- Have not already received Elite Athlete funding during the current season
Examples of eligible events may include:
- Eastern Championships
National Championships - Elite Canada
- International Competitions
- Other approved qualifying events (eg. OTIP camp)
Funding for Ninja athletes and certain specialty events will be evaluated on a case-by-case basis.
Guidelines
- Athletes may apply once per season
- Funding is distributed to athletes only
- Funding amounts depend on available funds and approved requests
- Regular training camps are not currently eligible through the Elite Athlete Fund
Families are encouraged to organize individual fundraising initiatives (with committee approval). Before running an individual or group-specific fundraiser, we ask that:
- the competitive group organizes and runs a gym-wide fundraising initiative that helps support the overall Rideau fundraising pool
- the fundraiser receives approval from the Fundraising Committee
Apply for Funding
Families may submit a request using the Elite Athlete Funding Application form.
Please have the following information ready:
Athlete and parent contact information.
Competition or event details.
Estimated travel/event costs.