This week ISPAL has run, in Nottingham, the 16th NSDS seminar, with a big turn out of sports development professionals.

The delegates enjoyed quality keynote addresses from ISPAL chairman Peter Mann - who exhorted the audience to “go out and make a difference!” - and new Sport England CEO Jennie Price.

Jennie gave a very well received briefing on Sport England’s goals and programme, with in particular her “bottom up” explanation of the Delivery System. She also shared with the delegates how her work in sport motivates her to get out of bed every morning!

Other memorable and rousing sessions came from British Swimming CEO David Sparkes, with strong views on funding for athletes; and from John Eady, ever an expert exponent of English “usage and abusage”. John’s theme this year was - “Let’s all take on the challenge of 'what if' - take the lead locally and do something different today”.

Dr Mark Nesti engaged the delegates at the start of day two with an inspiring talk about the impact of personalities in sport and how “passion is a key ingredient” for sports professionals.

The frenetic and fast pace of the update sessions allowed delegates to learn about the latest developments in numerous subjects, all delivered by industry leading professionals. The seminar concluded with three inspiring keynotes from Stewart Kellett, Peter Hirst and Steve Bradley.

Once again, the initial feedback is very positive from the delegates on the look, feel, content and delivery of the first ISPAL-branded NSDS.

Kirstie Simpson commented: “If we do what we've always done, we'll get what we've always got – non-participation. A clear message from the conference for me is that we need to start thinking and acting differently.”

Photograph courtesey of Jonathan Ives, www.jpives.co.uk – (l-r) ISPAL board member Bev Smith, chairman Peter Mann and Sport England chief executive Jennie Price