As the Official Training Partner of Liverpool FC, and a believer that everyone should have the confidence to Know You Can, we wanted to help our colleagues who’re pushing the boundaries in their sports every day!
So, we created the AXA Sports Champions Fund.
In September 2024, we opened applications for the inaugural AXA Sports Champions fund, so that any colleague who competed in sport at a national level could apply for £1500 in funding to support their sporting endeavours.
We always knew we had amazing colleagues at AXA UK&I, but we were truly surprised by the diverse sports that they take part in at such a high level while working for AXA.
Introducing the first cohort of AXA Sports Champions
Meet Andrea Fairless
Digital Sustainability Lead for AXA UK and Captain and Central Defender for the Wales Over 55’s Women’s Hockey team!
I got hooked on hockey back when I started in secondary school. When my kids were growing up, I stopped playing, never expecting to get back into it, but in 2017, after a 12-year break from hockey, I became a returner! And the following year, I was selected for the first time, to play for Wales Over 50s. I proved to myself that I could still live my life, I was still me and that you are never too old to get involved. Playing for my country is extremely inspiring. I am incredibly proud to be part of a squad of like-minded ladies, all of a similar age. Age is no barrier!!
Meet Bernadetta Nelson
Senior Internal Auditor for AXA Ireland and European CrossFit champion representing Ireland in the 2024 World Championships!
I started CrossFit in late 2018, initially drawn to the idea of varied training and the sense of community in the sport. What really hooked me was how it pushed me to exceed my limits—both mentally and physically. As I progressed, I found myself getting stronger, faster, and more confident, which motivated me to take it more seriously and pursue it competitively. This commitment to personal growth will pay off in the future by keeping me strong, resilient, and ready for challenges, both in sports and in life.
Meet Jen Titterington
Pricing Assurance Manager for AXA Commercial and national-level Rowing champion!
At the core of why I love rowing is the incredible feeling and joy I get when a boat moves smoothly through the water. The instant feedback the sport gives and the satisfaction and pride I feel when I see progress is highly addictive. Rowing also gives me an outlay for my competitive spirit and an opportunity to test & challenge myself. I get a huge amount of support from AXA to support my sporting career. My team and management support flexible working to fit around my training schedule and are very enthusiastic about celebrating all my achievements.
Meet Megan Proctor
Continuous Improvement Specialist for AXA Commercial and England Pool Player!
I think doing something you’re passionate about outside of work is so fulfilling. Socialising with other girls from all over the world and learning from them is something I really enjoy. Pool makes my mind go quiet, especially after a busy day... it just helps me relax. I think team sport is so rewarding, so playing with England really makes me buzz.
Meet Steven McGuire
Test Automation Engineer for AXA Ireland and Ireland Masters Powerlifting athlete!
Powerlifting means a great deal to me and has had a profound impact on my life. It has played a pivotal role in shaping the person I am today. As a young person, I struggled with self-confidence and was quite reserved. However, through powerlifting, I have been able to build my self-confidence and enhance my self-esteem. This sport has not only made me physically stronger but has also contributed to my mental and emotional well-being. As a happy side-effect it keeps me in shape too!
