ABOUT YOU
Name: Alison Rankin
Age: 45
Hometown: Portstewart
Current voluntary roles: Coach, Treasurer, and Race Director.
INTRODUCTION TO VOLUNTEERING
1. Did you have any sporting experience prior to volunteering?
Yes, I have been involved in athletics from a very young age, and also played hockey at school.
2. What first attracted you to volunteering in sport?
It was part of my DNA. My father and mother were both involved in athletics and rugby coaching, and we grew up with the principle of “it’s always good to give back!”
3. What qualifications did you have prior to the role?
I am a qualified accountant by profession, so that helps in my role as Treasurer.
VOLUNTEER DEVELOPMENT
4. What has sustained your involvement with Springwell Running Club?
Springwell is a very inclusive club, and one that made me very welcome when I joined. I have made more friends through the club than any other forum, and the team camaraderie is wonderful.
5. Have you gained additional qualifications in your voluntary roles?
Yes, I completed the Athletics NI coaching qualification some years ago, and have since completed a sports first aid course and the “Heart Start” course.
6. Besides additional qualifications, what have you gained in these experiences?
Satisfaction at the fact that I am helping others to achieve their goals and the team spirit and friendships built, are second to none.
7. Do you have a greatest moment as a volunteer?
This year I won the Borough Council Sports Administrator of the Year award, and this was a really proud moment for our club. I also played a key role in achieving the Clubmark accreditation for the club, and again this was tremendous for the prestige of Springwell and for building awareness locally.
AND FINALLY…
8. What are the three best things about volunteering in sport?
1: You give back a little of what you have received from your peers and elders through the years. 2: You get great satisfaction from seeing others benefit from your efforts, be that as a coach, as a treasurer, when we are awarded a grant, or as a race director, when our chosen charity benefits from the race proceeds. 3: The sweaty hug at the finish line from fellow team members!
9. What advice would you provide to other women and girls considering a voluntary role in sport?
Give it a go. You will be surprised at how much you will enjoy it, and how much you will get back in “job” satisfaction.
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