Tell us a bit about yourself.
I live in east Belfast and come from a working class background . Ive always had an interest in rugby and I am delighted my son choose rugby over football.
What is your volunteering role within the club?
Youth Team Manager.
What does your role entail?
- Liaising with all team members, coaches and officials (and parents where applicable), to ensure players are made aware of all
- information regarding training, matches and club functions
- To ensure the Spirit of Rugby is always followed by all members of the team
- Ensure all equipment / kit is in place for all matches and training sessions.
- Adjudicating any problems that may arise among team members, the coach and supporters (and parents/employers where applicable). It’s a long season
- Acting as liaison officer between the club committee and the team
- Ensuring the team sheets and any other rules / regulations of the competition are observed and carried out
- Ensuring all welfare and safety requirements for the team are met
- Ensuring all players remain together and support each other whilst they are representing the club
- Distributing all required information and updates to players and coaches
How long have you been volunteering in sports and has it always been in this role?
5 years and yes always Team Manager of the U14 U16 and U18 Youth Teams.
Why do you volunteer?
I initially began volunteering to be involved with my son at his club. Five years later, I now have the privilege of seeing young adults grow and develop through rugby first hand.
What makes your club a great place to volunteer?
Everyone is working towards the same goal , everyone is considered important.
Has volunteering improved your life?
Definitely. Talking to large crowds calmly and confidently has vastly improved since I began volunteering . Everyone is eager for information and have different levels of fear of missing something. It is important to realise that not everyone sees a message when you have sent it so don't get too distressed about repeating it.