Tell us a little about yourself (e.g hobbies, interests and background)?
Hello, my name is Joel, and I’m a Loughborough University graduate from Chesterfield. I love all sports due to the power of connection they have to bring people together.
Football is my primary sport, having played and administered in the game. I’m a big believer in giving all young people a chance to be involved in roles where they can lead in sport, due to the massive benefits this has for their development both personally & professionally (like through the CVA!).
How did you first get involved in volunteering within sport at Loughborough?
I first began volunteering as a My Lifestyle football activator in my second year, having helped out at a few athletics events. I then became a football coach (whilst playing) for my hall and began to coordinate the social sport football leagues as part of the social sport exec.
During your years at Loughborough, have you been involved in any volunteering within sport?
I have been involved in football at all levels (recreational, IMS, AU & performance) through leading sessions as an activator, coaching & playing in IMS and on my placement with Loughborough Sport as team secretary for Loughborough Students FC & the BUCS teams.
I have also supported the running of the Sport Senate as vice chair and, most recently, chaired the team who run the IMS Programme. I have also volunteered with the local County FA and the National FA, alongside holding roles with Youth Sport Trust.
What has your experience volunteering been like whilst at Loughborough?
Absolutely fantastic. You are placed in an environment where you can lead and shape students’ experiences.
I have been able to lead others and programmmes, shaping the sporting offer, while being supported by staff and adult partners who ensure my development remains a focus.
There are very few places where you are given the autonomy, with support, to lead a club or programme like at Loughborough. At times, it can be hard and time-consuming, but you get out what you put in!
How has being involved with Loughborough Sport helped you develop and progress (personally and professionally)?
Having met and spoken with so many Loughborough sport staff, the connections you can make with industry leaders in the University sector (and internationally in cases) are fantastic.
I have learnt how to navigate difficult situations, been exposed to opportunities to lead others and experienced sport outside of a university bubble in football’s national league system. All of these experiences are vital to forging a successful career in sport, and I feel ready to begin working in sport.
What’s the best advice you could give to a Loughborough student looking to get involved in volunteering & gain the most out of their university experiences?
Being there in person is so integral, valued and most definitely noticed by others. I would encourage you to act with integrity in all that you do, ensuring that you build trust with those you work with. Make sure you enjoy it - you only get this time once!
Finally, what do you enjoy most about volunteering?
People. You get to meet so many incredible individuals who become teammates, friends and those you can rely on. Volunteers are so integral to sport and are a wonderful community to be part of.