Tell us a bit about yourself.
I am a father, husband and rugby fan! My family is everything to me and I am delighted that both my boys caught the rugby bug as I did at a young age. I believe that the core values of rugby are transferable in your everyday life as you mature and get older.
How did you get involved in volunteering in sports?
From minis to senior rugby t,hen when children come along I like many others reengaged with rugby and haven't looked back.
What is your volunteering role within the club?
I am currently the rugby chairman, sit on the finance and management committees and coach P3 & U14.
What attracted you to the role?
I love all things rugby, off the field I want to create the best environment for our players, members and guests each season whilst we plan for long term success with multiple projects in the pipeline. On the field I feel a coach can really make a difference in children's lives. Rugby has given me so much over the years and watching our players grow in confidence and play with a smile on their faces is what attracts me to coaching. I firmly believe a good coaching network such as we have at Lurgan can identify, nurture and develop talent from the non traditional rugby schools to play at a high standard in senior rugby.
Why do you volunteer, what do you get out of it?
To make a difference. Be the change you want to see. Volunteering has many rewards but the friends you make who celebrate the high points with you but more importantly pick you up in the low points makes it worthwhile.
Do you think it is essential to have experience in rugby to get involved?
Not at all. Rugby is a great sport for friendship and support. At coaching level we co coach as a team and encourage coaches to attend Ulster rugby coaching courses to learn the skills necessary to pass on to the players. Off the field we have skilled volunteers leading our departments who are happy to offer guidance and support to new volunteers.
What makes your club a great place to volunteer?
We are a rugby family at Lurgan, no matter what is going on in your life you have friends who are like family!
What has been the highlight of your volunteering experience?
This year we have a great bunch of U14s who had a challenging start to the season, they worked hard and reached the quarter final of the cup, the bond they have as a team and the craic they give the coaches has made this year such an enjoyable one. Off the field, we raised funds and completed a refurbishment of the main hall and bar area in the clubhouse, something we are very proud of.
What would you tell other people who would like to get involved in volunteering but don’t have any rugby experience?
You don't have to be fully involved from day 1 if you don't feel comfortable to, Come and watch the games, come in to the clubhouse for a pint or a coffee, dip your toe in to volunteering and with any club there is a role for everyone.