There are many different volunteer roles - there’s something for everyone! Find out how you can get involved.
Where do I start?
If you have never volunteered before then it might appear daunting as to where to even start! We have compiled a top tips list to get you started.
1. Find out about different roles available
Roles in sport go way beyond coaching so if you think coaching might not be for you there are still plenty of ways to get involved and use your skills. Have a look at our roles outlined below.
2. Discover local clubs in your area
You might already know of clubs in your area but there might be more than you think in a wider variety of sports than you realised! If you are looking for a specific sport, the governing body may publish a list of affiliated clubs. You may be more interested in finding out what's in your area across a number of sports - if this is the case your local authority or leisure trust may have a directory of clubs in the area.
Other options are looking for your local community sport hub which may contain a number of clubs in one place and finally your area's Active Schools team may be looking for volunteers right now to get involved in after school clubs.
3. Understand your skills
You might have skills that you haven't realised would be important in sport. Read about Gavin who uses his accountancy skills to help a club sort it's finances. You don't even necessarily need to love participating in sport, being a kit coordinator can help clubs immensely so don't underestimate the difference you could make.
4. Talk to other volunteers
You may want to speak to current volunteers about their experiences and the best way to do this is to contact local clubs and ask!
5. Look for specific opportunities
You might already know what you'd like to get involved in. We have a list of current volunteering opportunities on this website that is updated daily. Alternatively you can visit Volunteer Scotland's website where you can have specific opportunities sent straight to your inbox.
Volunteer roles in sport
There are many different roles you could do in sport.
We have brought some of these to life with case studies and have role descriptions to help you understand what skills you might need to get involved. This list is not exhaustive and there might be many more roles your local club have available but it will give you a flavour of the kinds of people sport is looking for.
Find out what you could do for sport and become a volunteer!
Is there a role for you?
Club
- Treasurer - Role description - My story - Gavin Cruikshanks - club treasurer
- Secretary - Role description
- Coach
- Chairperson - Role description
- Match secretary
- Official/referee - Our story - Lorna and Sarah Halley - badminton officials
- Marketing officer - Role description
- Welfare officer - Role description
- Health and Safety coordinator - Role description
- Kit convenor
School
- Active Schools volunteer
Event
- General events
- Major Games