Úrval
Targeted development – better results
The aim of the Úrval programme is to create the best possible conditions for Faroese athletes who are working purposefully towards an international competitive level. Through structured development, support and good cooperation between athletes, coaches and clubs, FÍF works to develop Faroese athletics at the highest level.
Here you will find all the information about our Úrval programme, admission criteria, support schemes, squad gatherings and how to apply for admission to the Úrval programme.
About Úrval
A system with clear criteria
The Úrval programme of Frælsur Ítróttur Føroya (FÍF), the Faroese athletics federation, is intended for athletes who have the will and the potential to develop to an international competitive level.
The programme is based on clear and transparent criteria, where sporting level, commitment, attitude and cooperation all count in an overall assessment. The aim is not only to achieve good results today, but also to build a strong and sustainable elite environment where athletes get the best opportunities to develop over time.
Through the Úrval programme, FÍF works to:
- develop Faroese athletes to an international competitive level
- create a clear framework and clear expectations
- support Faroese athletes in the Faroe Islands and abroad
- strengthen cooperation between FÍF, clubs, coaches and athletes
- lay the foundations for future results in Faroese athletics
Úrval plan
The foundation of all Úrval work
The programme comprises three groups of athletes and is funded by a grant from Úrval/ÍSF and allocations from FÍF. The scope of the programme depends on the financial resources available at any given time. Working to the same principles ensures that all athletes are assessed on the same basis.
Vision
FÍF shall create a structured and developing elite environment where Faroese athletes get the best opportunities to develop and compete at international level.
Purpose
- develop Faroese athletes to an international competitive level
- create a clear framework and clear expectations for Úrval athletes
- support athletes both in the Faroe Islands and abroad
- ensure a structured and fair system for support and development
- strengthen cooperation between FÍF, local clubs, coaches and athletes
Athlete development
- More Faroese athletes should reach international level
- More athletes should qualify for international competitions
- More young people should continue in organised training beyond their youth years
Admission requirements
Who is an Úrval athlete?
Selection for Úrval is based on an overall assessment of:
- World Athletics points over the last 2 years
- training activity
- attitude and work ethic
- cooperation and communication
- respect for shared plans
Points system
The basis is the World Athletics points system.
| Group | WA points | Sponsorship |
|---|---|---|
| Úrval A | 1000+ | ÍSF Úrval / FÍF |
| Úrval B | 930 – 999 | FÍF annually budgeted pool |
| Menning | 880 – 929 | FÍF annually budgeted pool |
Moving between groups
- A final assessment is made once a year
- Usually after the outdoor season
- FÍF may, however, make special adjustments as needed
Overall assessment
Admission to the Úrval programme is based on an overall assessment. World Athletics points are an important basis, but admission is also assessed on training activity, commitment, attitude, cooperation and development potential. The final decision is always made on the basis of an overall assessment.
Calculator
Calculate your World Athletics points
A simple calculator can be found here — calculate your points below and see where you stand in relation to the groups in the points system.
Sponsorship
Support for Úrval athletes
Through the Úrval programme, athletes can receive support for, among other things:
- travel and travel grants
- competition entry fees
- training camps and squad gatherings
- testing and health-professional support
- international coaching cooperation
How support is awarded
Support is granted on the basis of an overall assessment and the financial resources available. Admission to the Úrval programme therefore does not automatically entitle an athlete to financial support. The final decision is made in accordance with the support rules in force.
FÍF works to
- a clearer allocation of support
- long-term plans for each athlete
- better cooperation with clubs and coaches abroad
Competition support
FÍF provides support, in accordance with the conditions in force, for the following competitions:
- DM/DMU indoor
- DM/DMU outdoor
- Pallas Spelen (Växjö for throwers)
- VU-Spelen
In addition to these competitions, an athlete may apply to FÍF for support for a maximum of three other competitions a year.
The condition for support to Úrval athletes for these competitions is that the competition is one where the result can earn World Athletics points.
Support is granted following application and assessment, and within the financial framework set by FÍF.
Competition support does not require the athlete to have been admitted to FÍF’s Úrval programme.
To receive competition support, the athlete must have achieved FÍF’s current talent standard, or the elite standard for athletes aged 19 and over.
See FÍF’s current talent and elite standards.
All applications for competition support must be sent to athletics@athletics.fo.
Annual cycle
The Úrval year in five phases
The annual cycle gives an overview of the main activities in the Úrval programme throughout the year. Activities may be adjusted according to the competition calendar, international competitions and other circumstances.
Jan – Mar
- indoor competitions
- winter gathering
- setting of support and goals
- follow-up of development plans
April – June
- outdoor season begins
- preparation for international competitions
- national team activities
- cooperation with clubs
Jul – Aug
- Faroese Championships and other competitions
- several major competitions at home and abroad
Sep – Oct
- evaluation of the competition year
- review of group allocation
- meetings with athletes and coaches
Nov – Dec
- winter training
- development work
- planning of the coming year
- report to ÍSF
Squad gatherings and training camps
Club development
An important part of the Úrval programme is joint squad gatherings and training camps.
The purpose
- develop athletes
- strengthen team spirit
- share knowledge
- create cooperation between coaches and athletes
Every year
- winter gathering
- summer gathering
- training camps as needed
- development events
FÍF works to
- two annual gatherings in the Faroe Islands
- regular joint activities
- a training camp every other year or as needed
Upcoming events will also be announced here.
Úrval athletes
Athletes in the programme
The Úrval athletes in each group will be announced here once admission has been decided.
Maria Biskopstø400m · 400m hurdles · 800m
Tórur MortensenLong jump
Jónas Gunnleivsson Isaksen200m · 400m
Dánjal Dahl Ljósheim400m · 200m
Oddvør Josephsen60m · 100m · 200m · 400m
Julian Gregersen1500m · 3000m steeplechase · 5000m · 10000m · 5km · 10km · half marathon · marathon
Rutt Hjelm Gregersen5000m · 5km · half marathon
The system
Coordination, cooperation and responsibility
Úrval coordination
The Úrval programme is coordinated by FÍF’s Úrval coordinator. Duties and responsibilities are set out in the job description for the Úrval coordinator.
Cooperation and responsibility
- good cooperation with local clubs
- respect between athletes, coaches and FÍF
- clear expectations and division of responsibilities
- realism regarding capacity and financial constraints
Audit
The Úrval plan is reviewed regularly and may be adjusted as needed. Final responsibility for the Úrval programme lies with the executive committee of FÍF.
Application
Apply for admission to the Úrval programme
To become part of FÍF’s Úrval programme, each individual athlete must apply for admission.
Applications are assessed on:
Hevur tú onkran spurning um FÍF Úrval?

