Roles undertaken within Loughborough Sport
Strength and Conditioning Coach with Lightning Football and Women's Performance Cricket. Volunteered with Loughborough Swimming for the last 5 months as well.
Tell us a little about yourself (E.g. hobbies, interests and background):?
I have always been a sporty person, growing up playing football, tennis and doing JiuJitsu from the age of 3. I played every sport possible during school and started to fall in love with going to the gym around age 14. I've been in and out of different sports since then, but the gym has always stuck. At uni I have played Gaelic Football and continued JiuJitsu up until my placement. As well as sport I have always enjoyed music and have sung for quite a lot of my life too.
How did you first get involved in volunteering within sport at Loughborough?
Having watched and played a lot of sport during my first year of university, in my second year I applied for a strength and conditioning stipend placement at Loughborough. After a few rounds of interviews I found out I was successful and would be working with Loughborough Lightning Football, and later presented the opportunity to work with Women's Performance Cricket and Loughborough Performance Swimming as-well.
During your years at Loughborough what have you got involved in through volunteering within sport?
I have been able to work within multiple performance programmes, including testing, programming, working match days and getting to be part of great sporting community at loughborough.
What has your experience volunteering been like whilst at Loughborough?
It's been a great challenge and support environment surrounded by people wanting me to succeed and doing all they can to help me get there. It has been hard work and long hours at times but has definitely helped me to grow as not only a practisioner but as a person as-well.
How has being involved with Loughborough Sport helped you develop and progress (personally and professionally)?
Being involved with Loughborough Sport has helped me develop confidence, resilience and teamwork skills. Personally, I have built meaningful relationships, challenged myself and become more adaptable. Professionally, I have strengthened my communication, leadership and time-management skills, while learning the importance of responsibility and collaboration. It also put me in a strong position for my interviews and subsequently helped me secure a role as S+C placement with GB Aquatics.
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?
Make the most of every opportunity ! Even small commitments can make a big difference. Be willing to learn, ask questions and connect with others. Volunteering can help you grow in confidence, build friendships and create memories beyond your degree.
Finally, what do you enjoy most about volunteering?
I enjoy meeting new people, working as part of a team and helping create positive experiences for others. Volunteering allows me to give back to the Loughborough community while developing new skills and making lasting memories.