As part of Ulster Rugby's Volunteers' Week (01-12 June 2016) celebrations we will be showcasing some of our outstanding rugby volunteers and highlighting the great work that is carried out by rugby volunteers across Ulster.
One of these such individuals is mini rugby coach at Ballymoney RFC, Katie Speers.
Katie grew up in a family with strong rugby affiliations, and was introduced to Ballymoney RFC approximately 12 years ago by her now husband. In the time since, Katie has carried out a number of different roles and is currently the first aid officer and event organiser for the mini section, as well as serving as a fundraiser on the club committee.
However, it is as a mini-rugby coach that Katie has really excelled. Since undertaking her Level One Coaching Award in 2005 there has barely been a Saturday since that Katie hasn’t been out on the coaching field or travelling with the kids to games.
Renowned for her vibrant personality and kind nature, Katie ensures that mini rugby is an enjoyable and rewarding experience for any child who wants to participate.
Aside from her work coaching mini rugby, Katie has also organised various fundraising and entertainment events for the various sections of the club, which has helped to strengthen the entire club ethos and forge greater bonds throughout.
While Katie carries out many different duties within her club, she is keen to stress that it takes the input of many to ensure a rugby club can thrive:
“A successful club is more than just the teams on the pitch. It is essential to have volunteers working behind the scenes carrying out all the necessary roles to ensure that the club can function efficiently and succeed.”
Katie is certainly a very dedicated volunteer who takes great pleasure in her work:
“I take immense satisfaction from taking a group of children through the different age groups to maxi level. Many of these children have now grown into young adults playing at various levels, and they have built long-term friendships from their time at the club.”
In recognition for her services to volunteering, Katie was selected as a finalist for the 2016 SONI Community Rugby Champions Award, bringing home a £500 bursary for her club.
If you would like to get involved in volunteering at your local club please contact Kerry Spence, Ulster Rugby Volunteer and Policy Development Officer on volunteer@ulsterrugby.com
One of these such individuals is mini rugby coach at Ballymoney RFC, Katie Speers.
Katie grew up in a family with strong rugby affiliations, and was introduced to Ballymoney RFC approximately 12 years ago by her now husband. In the time since, Katie has carried out a number of different roles and is currently the first aid officer and event organiser for the mini section, as well as serving as a fundraiser on the club committee.
However, it is as a mini-rugby coach that Katie has really excelled. Since undertaking her Level One Coaching Award in 2005 there has barely been a Saturday since that Katie hasn’t been out on the coaching field or travelling with the kids to games.
Renowned for her vibrant personality and kind nature, Katie ensures that mini rugby is an enjoyable and rewarding experience for any child who wants to participate.
Aside from her work coaching mini rugby, Katie has also organised various fundraising and entertainment events for the various sections of the club, which has helped to strengthen the entire club ethos and forge greater bonds throughout.
While Katie carries out many different duties within her club, she is keen to stress that it takes the input of many to ensure a rugby club can thrive:
“A successful club is more than just the teams on the pitch. It is essential to have volunteers working behind the scenes carrying out all the necessary roles to ensure that the club can function efficiently and succeed.”
Katie is certainly a very dedicated volunteer who takes great pleasure in her work:
“I take immense satisfaction from taking a group of children through the different age groups to maxi level. Many of these children have now grown into young adults playing at various levels, and they have built long-term friendships from their time at the club.”
In recognition for her services to volunteering, Katie was selected as a finalist for the 2016 SONI Community Rugby Champions Award, bringing home a £500 bursary for her club.
If you would like to get involved in volunteering at your local club please contact Kerry Spence, Ulster Rugby Volunteer and Policy Development Officer on volunteer@ulsterrugby.com