Focus on Volunteering in Sport for School Students

The three largest sports governing bodies are hosting schools roadshows in Belfast and Armagh this week to promote volunteering in sport.

As part of the ‘Sport – A Home for Life Long Volunteering’ Project, funded by Department for Social Development, Ulster GAA, Ulster Rugby and the Irish FA will use this opportunity to emphasis the importance of volunteering to young PE students, and to highlight how volunteering can enhance employability.

As part of this initiative three schools roadshows are being held in Belfast at Kingspan Stadium and the Boys’ Model and in Armagh at the Athletic Grounds.

Ulster Rugby President Bobby Stewart said, “Volunteering in sport is a fantastic experience, not only does it give people an opportunity to be part of our clubs as well as the big, special occasions, but it also helps build experience and knowledge that can be used in other walks of life too.”

Irish FA President Jim Shaw said, “Young people starting out in Further Education or in employment need to get experience and volunteering in sport is a perfect way to do that. Volunteers run our clubs and our associations and there is a wide variety of tasks and roles available for volunteers – there really is something for everyone.”

Ulster GAA President Martin McAviney said, “Without volunteers our Associations simply could not function, and it is so important that we get volunteers from all types of backgrounds, abilities and age groups so that our Associations can best develop for the future – that is why it is so important to inspire young people to play their part in sport – both on and off the pitch.”

As part of the schools roadshows 200 young people will get the opportunity to play all three codes and receive expert coaching as well as exploring what volunteering opportunities are available in sport. The Roadshows will also encourage the young people to sign up for the GoldMark Programme.

For further information Contact:
Ulster GAA Sharon Haughey: 028 3751 7180
IFA Stephen Garrett: 028 9068 4712
Ulster Rugby: Kerry Spence: 028 9049 3111

Photo Caption:
Irish FA Vice President David Martin, Ulster Rugby President Bobby Stewart and Ulster GAA President Martin McAviney today attended a joint schools roadshow promoting sports volunteering, pictured here at Belfast Boys’ Model with representatives from the schools who participated including Belfast Boys’ Model, Corpsi Christi, St Malachy’s and St Patrick’s College