Tell us a bit about yourself.
I am 53 years of age and live locally in Omagh.
How did you get involved in volunteering in sport?
Through a work colleague. I recently retired from my job and have been more involved since retirement.
What is your volunteering role within the club?
I am the club Welfare Officer and Club Registrar. Up until this year I was also Youth Convenor and carried out the Covid Officer role during that period.
What does your role entail?
I look after any welfare issue throughout the club, and I oversee access NI checks and ensure coaches complete the safeguarding training required within their individual role. I record all injuries and deal with all transfers from and to our club.
What attracted you to the role?
I have two boys that play rugby and have a passion for the game. I like to work with young people and try and mould them into something positive for the future.
How long have you been volunteering in sports and has it always been in this role?
Approximately 10 years. I took on additional Covid Officer and Club welfare recently and have passed on the role of Youth Convenor to another volunteer.
Did you have any rugby experience before you started volunteering?
I played a little rugby many years ago. Unfortunately, with my job it was not always practical to play sport, so choices had to be made.
Do you think it’s essential to have rugby experience to volunteer in your role or can anyone do it?
Anyone can volunteer. Not every role involves knowledge of rugby, for example, registrations and reporting injuries to making tea or coffee or even parking cars.
Why did you decide to volunteer in your club?
Due mainly to my young children being a part of the Club. Through that, you get to know others within and enjoy the company down at the club.
Have you gained any new skills through volunteering?
I have gained confidence in the roles that I do. My computer skills and knowledge of procedures around Access NI and safeguarding have been enhanced.
Has volunteering in sport impacted positively on your life?
Unfortunately, in 2019 I became ill due to mental health issues through my work. I became quite isolated and found it hard to leave the house. The folk from the club kept in contact with me and I became involved in the club doing the different roles. The club and the functions I carry out is a safe place for me and I love and enjoy the work I do and seeing the results. It has been instrumental in my recovery, in gaining confidence and my life to date.
Have you had any volunteering highlights?
We took it upon ourselves to raise money to fully renovate our clubhouse. I’m pleased to say we had several fund-raising days, and the work has now been completed which I am delighted with.
What would you tell other people who would like to get involved in Rugby but who don’t play or have no experience in rugby?
Do it. You will get such a buzz from meeting different people from all sections of our community.