Age: 22
Hometown: Kirkcaldy
Local authority: Fife
What sport are you involved in and what is it that you love about it?
I’m heavily involved with football. Football has been my sport of choice since I was 4 years old and still actively compete to this day, from local youth teams, all the way through to playing for my university, and then back to the local amateur Saturday league. Towards the end of high school, I began coaching football to various age groups and my love for the sport increased. Currently, I coach 5/6 years old with Raith Rovers Community Foundation and it always makes me smile seeing the little ones having the time of their lives at one of my sessions.
What motivated you to be part of the Young People’s Sport Panel?
The opportunity to work with a group of people from all over Scotland, sportscotland, and national partners greatly motivated me to be a part of the Young People’s Sport Panel. An opportunity like the YPSP is difficult to turn down when sport has had a major impact on my life from the moment I started playing football at 4 years old. To have the opportunity to have my voice heard as part of the panel is one I’ll treasure greatly.
What do you think are (some of) the big challenges facing young people in Scotland today?
Modern sport is becoming expensive in today’s society, with kit/equipment and sports classes increasing in price every year. Many young people rely on parents to fund their sport activities, however, with the rise of necessities such as food and energy bills, sport may be one of those luxuries that may be prioritised less for families affected by recent price increases. Forcing some young people to miss out on the same opportunities in sport their peers can easily access and afford.
How do you think sport can help support young people in Scotland?
Sport can be used as a great coping mechanism in modern society for young people. Currently, young people have many stressors in their lives, such as school exams and part-time/full-time work. Sport can be used to relax and destress after a hard day of work, where fun and enjoyment can be had with friends with similar interests.
Is there a role model who inspires you? What is it about them that you admire?
When asked this question I always say my parents. Without them, I would not be the person I am or would not be the in the position I am in today. They’ve instilled in me many positive attributes and always pushed me to succeed, even in times when I thought I couldn’t. They are the most supportive people, always encouraging me to take on any challenge and opportunity, while also allowing me to make the decisions for myself and being there whether the decision is a success or a failure.