Meet our Volunteers | Gareth Richardson

Today is International Volunteer Day, and so we want to celebrate some of our amazing volunteers across the province. Meet Gareth from Dungannon.

Tell us a bit about yourself.

I have a family of 5 with 4 of them playing rugby and youth and mini level. I am a packaging factory operations manager and volunteer as a youth leader within the Boys Brigade as well as being a Mini rugby coach.

How did you get involved in volunteering in sport?

My sons team needed a coach and I was willing to get involved.

What attracted you to the role?

Wanted my sons to play rugby and give something back to my club community. My goal when organising our P7 tour this year is to provide the best rugby experience I can that the boys can always associate with rugby and continue playing or giving back in another way as they move through the different sections.

Why do you volunteer?

I volunteer to give back to my club and to ensure my son’s team has a coaching structure. I get satisfaction from seeing the lads develop their skills on the pitch and build friendships and confidence of the pitch as well.

Do you think it’s essential to have rugby experience to volunteer in your role or can anyone do it?

No - as long as you are enthusiastic and a proactive attitude anyone can get involved.

What makes your club a great place to volunteer?

The support from parents and other groups within the club.

Has volunteering improved your life?

Yes - made me more active and got my whole family involved in sport.

What would you tell other people who would like to get involved in volunteering but don’t have any rugby experience?

Offer help with something simple like handing out hotdogs and get to know people and offer help in your area of expertise.