What was your experience in sport growing up?
Sport was a huge part of my childhood. I was involved in many; ice hockey, baseball and volleyball took up most of my extracurricular time. My coaches played an important part in my life.
What is your volunteering experience to date?
I’ve been part of the Active Schools program since May and have coached Tennis, Throw-Run-Jump and am now teaching yoga to different age groups.
What/who inspired you to get into volunteering?
Since my kids have started school I’ve noticed that schools can only go so far in providing access to different sports/activities. Volunteers (teachers, parents) step in to fill that gap and I thought I could help. To answer the question: volunteers inspired me to become a volunteer.
What do you enjoy most about volunteering?
I’ve so enjoyed the enthusiasm and engagement of the kids. They really value these little groups as much as I do. The size of the group allows the volunteers to establish a unique coach/pupil relationships with the necessary attention given.
Have you had to overcome any challenges or barriers whilst volunteering?
There are days when they just can’t be contained! Their enthusiasm and excitement just boil over and I’ve had to get out the “mum voice”. Keeping it interesting and engaging can be a challenge sometimes but I’m learning to “go with the flow”…they’re kids after all
What advice would you give to others looking to get involved in volunteering?
That no matter what kind of coaching you’re willing to offer it will be welcomed and appreciated by the kids. It doesn’t take up much time and you probably have more coaching qualities than you realise! The kids are just so thankful (most of the time).
