Tell us a bit about yourself.
I am a full time accountant and part time farmer, and I have been involved with Clogher Valley RFC for many years through both my children and volunteering within the club. My involvement first began when my two sons started playing youth rugby around 15 years ago. I initially helped out at training sessions before becoming assistant coach for the Under 14s.
After a couple of seasons I moved into youth administration and became Youth Convenor from 2015 to 2020. From there I took on the role of club administrator for Rugby Connect and, for the past two years, I have served as Club Treasurer.
Over the years I have enjoyed being able to support the club in different ways and help ensure things continue to run smoothly both on and off the pitch.
What is your volunteering role within the club?
Club Treasurer and Rugby Connect Administrator.
What does your role entail?
My role involves overseeing many of the administrative and financial responsibilities within the club to help ensure everything operates efficiently. Responsibilities include:
- Preparing quarterly accounts for the Club Management Committee
- Managing club payments, invoices and financial records
- Preparing annual club accounts for the AGM and the Charity Commission
- Processing player and coach registrations through Rugby Connect
- Managing player transfers and registration updates
- Completing team panels and team sheets throughout the season
- Supporting the administration requirements for adult men’s rugby
- Helping maintain accurate records and ensuring club compliance procedures are followed
- A large part of the role is making sure the behind the scenes work is completed efficiently so coaches, players and volunteers can focus on rugby activities.
How long have you been volunteering in sports and has it always been in this role?
I have been volunteering within rugby for around 15 years. My involvement has changed over time, beginning with helping at youth training sessions and coaching before moving into youth administration, Rugby Connect administration and eventually becoming Club Treasurer.
Why do you volunteer?
My volunteering journey began because of my sons becoming involved in rugby, but over time I developed a real enjoyment for helping the club operate successfully. As an accountant, moving into the Treasurer role felt like a natural step when the opportunity became available.
I also enjoy working with Rugby Connect as I am very organised and enjoy record keeping and administration. Volunteering allows me to use my professional skills in a way that benefits the club and supports everyone involved.
What makes your club a great place to volunteer?
Clogher Valley RFC has a strong community spirit and there is always a willingness from people to help each other and support the club. Everyone works together with the shared goal of providing the best possible experience for players of all ages.
The club also offers many opportunities for volunteers to become involved in different roles, whether that is coaching, administration, fundraising or supporting match days and club events. It is rewarding to know that every role contributes to the success of the club.
Has volunteering improved your life?
Definitely. Volunteering has allowed me to become more involved within the local community and has given me the opportunity to meet and work alongside many great people through rugby.
It has also been rewarding to use the skills and experience from my professional career to support the club and help things run effectively behind the scenes. Seeing the club continue to grow and watching young players progress through the different age groups makes all the hard work worthwhile.