Natalie Sharp

Name: Natalie Sharp

What do you do day to day? I graduated from the University of the West of Scotland in 2023 with a BA(hons) in Sports Coaching and Development. I work for East Ayrshire Leisure as a Customer Experience Assistant, and in my free time, I volunteer with my local athletics club as a coach for the under-11s.

Do you have any female role models? Personally, my female role models in general are independent, strong working women. The girls who are within sport, either as an athlete, coach or who work in sport, inspire me to do my best. As a younger athlete, it was Jessica Ennis-Hill who inspired me to get involved in the sport I love (athletics) at the London 2012 Olympics  

Why did you want to be a FFG tutor? As a girl who has had many opportunities and barriers in the sporting world, I wanted to give my time back to younger girls who may be facing barriers or struggling. I also have a real passion for developing sport and physical activity opportunities  

What have you learned so far? How to help young girls through some problems that they may be having, and offer support and advice through my own personal experiences. I have learnt how to communicate with young females about taboo conversations and how to make them feel comfortable  

What is your advice for girls who want to get involved in sport? My advice to them would be just to get involved, as it can be one of the best things that they could do as an individual. It can open up so many doors to different experiences and opportunities, and along the way, you meet individuals who are interested in the same things you are.