Age: 15
Hometown: Glasgow
Local authority: East Renfrewshire
What sport are you involved in and what is it that you love about it?
My sport is netball, the thing I enjoy about it is meeting new people. Playing the sport I am passionate about with the so many new friends that I have made along the way helps netball to be a huge escape from reality and a break from busy lifes especially in exam season.
What motivated you to be part of the Young People’s Sport Panel?
I was motivated to be on the panel to help to encourage and push younger girls like myself to get involved in sport. There are many young girls that don’t always see the sporting opportunities out there for them and I would really love to change this to make sure that they can find a sport they enjoy and love to keep them fit and healthy.
What do you think are (some of) the big challenges facing young people in Scotland today?
I think some Primary/ Secondary schools don’t give sport much attention from a young age which then effects pupils moving up. Many primary schools don’t introduce sports or speak to children about the benefits until they are much older and don’t seem to care as much. If sports were a bigger focus from younger ages it would help young people to continue to get involved and encourage them to try new sports rather than not get involved or stick to the one that may have been spotlighted to them.
How do you think sport can help support young people in Scotland?
I think sports can help young people physically to keep themselves fit and healthy but also play a big part in the mental health factor. Young people can use sports to give themselves a break from everything that may be putting pressure on them in life and give their minds a break. Sports is often used as an escape for many young people which can be very helpful.
Is there a role model who inspires you? What is it about them that you admire?
Niamh McCall a Scottish netball thistle inspires me to not give up as when she was playing out of position she still kept working on what she loves to play and is now playing that. I could relate to this and put in a lot of work to now be in my preferred position.