Jenny Smatt Launches ‘Performance Pathways’
Olympian Jenny Smatt has launched Performance Pathways a non-profit organization which is “dedicated to providing professional, peer, and financial support to Bermudian athletes throughout their career journey—from adolescence through adulthood.”
A spokesperson said, “Founded by Bermudian Olympian, parent, and coach Jenny Smatt, Performance Pathways addresses the financial and career-related challenges that many Bermudian athletes and their families face. The organization provides funding to athletes aged 14-18, helping them access the resources they need to achieve their full potential whether it’s sports, training or nutrition. Funds will be awarded based on need and determined by a review from Performance Pathways’ diverse board, which includes professionals from various sectors and athletic backgrounds.”
Jenny Smatt, founder of Performance Pathways.
“Many talented Bermudian athletes struggle to afford the training, equipment, and opportunities necessary to compete at the highest level,” said Ms Smatt. “Performance Pathways is here to bridge that gap and give them the support they need to succeed.”
The spokesperson said, “Beyond financial assistance, Performance Pathways also aims to help athletes gain professional experience while they train and compete, particularly during holiday periods when many struggle to find flexible work opportunities. The organization is actively advocating for and placing athletes in professional settings with employers who understand and accommodate their unique schedules.
“Athletes bring a lot of value to a workplace,” said a current Bermudian sophomore college athlete. “Being an athlete has taught me discipline, time management, prioritization, and teamwork. These skills don’t just help in sports—they make us great employees too. Companies that hire athletes are getting hardworking, dedicated, and adaptable people who know how to stay committed and get things done, no matter the challenge.”
Jenny Smatt on the block at the 1992 Olympics in Barcelona.
Performance Pathways also recognizes that transitioning out of competitive sports can be challenging.
Ms Smatt said, “Many athletes struggle to find careers that align with their degrees and interests or fully leverage their transferable skills. To support this transition, we provide access to sports psychology resources, ensuring that Bermudian talent remains in the workforce and thrives in their post-athletic careers.”
The spokesperson said, “Performance Pathways invites athletes seeking internships and employers interested in participating in this initiative to sign up on their website www.performancepathways.bm on or before March 28th.”
Love this! Thank you for this wonderful opportunity for our young athletes, who might otherwise not have the funds to further their sports careers.
Does this assistance and support apply also to Paralympians ????
Barbara, the article does not say that the support and assistance is limited Olympic athletes, it says “to Bermudian athletes throughout their career journey—from adolescence through adulthood.”
I appreciate that Bermuda’s Paralympians have been under-served by our Government ever since Bermuda joined the Paralympics, but that is no reason to think that Performance Pathways will discriminate in the same way.