I was first introduced to volunteering when I was a teenager at the gymnastics club I trained at. Traditionally I had always been involved in the gymnastics classes but when I was asked to help out with a beginner’s class I jumped at the chance. Within a couple of years I had completed my Assistant Coach Qualification and was enjoying helping out a few days a week. From my first introduction to beginner’s class coaching, volunteering has given me so many positive experiences and opportunities to get involved with sport outside of being a participant. It’s also given me some amazing memories
I stopped coaching when I went to University and in the subsequent years after, as I was struggling to find time to fit it in on a weekly basis. This led me to sign up to volunteer for individual events, which gave me the choice of when I would dedicate some of my spare time and also, the flexibility I needed. For the Glasgow Commonwealth Games, I was a Clyde-Sider and I also volunteered at the British Transplant Games in 2013, as well as helping at other gymnastics events across the country.
Whilst the experience of volunteering at events was amazing, the weekly coaching I now do at my community gymnastics club is just as important to me, if not more so! I made the move to London and decided that I would like to start coaching again. To date, it has been one of the best decisions I have made. Not only has it allowed me to put into practice my coaching skills but I have also made new friends and now feel part of my local community. Volunteering not only benefits the people you engage with but it also has a strong impact on the individual volunteer and I think this is what really makes every opportunity to volunteer special.
Another aspect of volunteering (and probably the part that I most enjoy) is the fact that once a week, when I walk into the gym, I am able to completely forget about what I have going on in my day to day life. Each week, I see the participants I coach (both children and adults) progress and this is so rewarding. It’s great to be able to share their enjoyment and achievements and this is one of the main reasons I keep going back each week.
I have had such a positive experience volunteering that I would urge more people get involved. It has given me the chance to feel part of my local community and become a valued member of a team. Volunteering has also provided me with the opportunity to gain a variety of skills which have been transferable to many other aspects of my working life. My experience has led to me being involved in some major sporting events which have given me some of my fondest memories and finally it got me taking part in gymnastics again by being persuaded to join in with adult classes!
So what do I think makes a good volunteer?
- Honesty. Its important people are honest about the time they have available as a volunteer and what commitments they can make.
- Passion. I would encourage people to get involved in something they love, or if they’re not sure then try something new!
- Be willing. Whilst I very much followed a traditional route into volunteering through coaching, volunteers are needed for many other roles within the sector. For example sports clubs need administrative support, help at their events, fundraising volunteers etc. so whatever skill set an individual has there will always be volunteering opportunities.
You can find out about opportunities to volunteer at clubs near you by visiting www.joinin.org.
