Katie Parrish

I’ve always had a passion for team sports playing in a number of teams at school including hockey, lacrosse, badminton, swimming, athletics etc. Since coming to university, I have focused on lacrosse and continued to play at international level for Wales as I have done since 2015. We are currently entering a very exciting final few months building up to the World Championships in Towson, Maryland next summer.

During my time at university, I’ve really enjoyed getting stuck in and involved with all the opportunities here at Loughborough, from acting as a team/club photographer for the lacrosse club to helping with the kitting out process for Paralympics GB.

Moving forward I have an interest in working in elite sport especially within professional team environments or major sporting competitions / events.

I first became aware of the CVA when I became media sec in 2018 and started logging my hours. Since then, I have enjoyed exploring all the other volunteer opportunities on offer, from helping at IMS Athletics ODEs to networking and learning from industry professionals as part of the International Events Programme.

My experience volunteering whilst at Loughborough has been incredibly rewarding. I’ve really enjoyed the chance to get more involved and help with the management of the lacrosse club and as Vice chair of the Sport Senate it has been great to be able to help ensure other students are able to have enjoy the same great sporting experience I’ve had at Loughborough. I’ve also really appreciated the chance to get experience and a behind-the-scenes insight at some of the events Loughborough hosts on campus such as the International Athletics. 

Being involved with volunteer positions and opportunity facilitated by Loughborough Sport has allowed me to develop a real confidence in managing and working in sporting environments. My time as club chair has given me a level of logistical and operational management experience that means I trust my decisions and capabilities to effectively manage and lead teams. Furthermore, the collaborative approach taken by the sports senate this year in achieving their goals has provided me with experience coordinating cross-departmental projects. All my experience’s have enabled me to network with incredible people and learn from industry professionals which I hope with aid me in my future career.

1. Say yes to as many opportunities as possible. Getting involved leads to even more opportunities so every hour is worth it.
2. Don’t be afraid to take on a role that scares you, that’s when you’ll learn and growth the most.
3. Try something new, you might find a new passion that you’d never even considered.

Being surrounded by other volunteers that share your interests, but all have different experiences and strengths that you can learn from.