Come on, be a sport!

"Without volunteers, most sports wouldn’t be able to survive. It is more than just a hobby to most volunteers, because they are professional and caring and want to be the best they can."

Tanni Grey-Thompson – Paralympic Queen

"Stuart Owen was one of my coaches who ran the Swansea Junior cricket team when I was younger. He provided games I could play in, coaching along the way and gave me opportunities every kid needs to get to the top."

Robert Croft – England Test Cricketer

If you have some experience or a particular sport and you are interested in becoming a coach, the first step is to attend a basic training course. National Governing Bodies run their own courses for beginners through to national level coaches. Introductory courses (leaders) enable individuals to guide others in sporting activities, often assisting another coach in providing safe and enjoyable experiences. Following the initial introduction to coaching are a series of levels through to the highest level, coaching national squads.

Most of the introductory courses are held locally. For a full list of courses please check the Coaching Course Database.

You could get involved with the Dragon Sport programme at your local club or school. Dragon Sport provides children of primary school-age with fun and appropriate sporting opportunities. Check out the Dragon Sport page or their web site.

I don’t want to coach, but how can I get involved in a sports club?

There are many ways in which you can become involved in your child’s sport. The degree of your involvement will depend on the time you can make available.

You can:

  • Supply or organise transport to and from practices and competitions
  • Assist coaches with supervision during sessions, if asked
  • Officiate games
  • Wash sports kit
  • Help out with administration
  • Set up a parents committee
  • Assist with the organisation of special activities/events

You may find yourself trying to juggle your commitments to make time for your child’s sport. Balance your needs with those of your child as best you can. Be realistic about the input you are able to make.

The time and effort you commit to sport will provide many rewarding experiences for both of you.

Remember:

Sport is only part of your child’s life
Praise and encourage your child to improve
Offer different sporting opportunities
Refrain from pressurising your child
Try to lead by example

Instill the need for commitment
Show support

Fair play should be encouraged
Understand what your child wants from sport
Not only is sport for children, it is also for you.

Many agree that volunteers are the key to developing sport in Wales.

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