Young volunteers who are delivering sports sessions to children have been congratulated after their first four months’ work.
Thirty-five young people signed up for the Sure Sports Leaders’ Programme, run by the Department of Education and Children’s Sports Development Unit and sponsored by telecoms firm Sure Isle of Man.
The recruits took part in a week-long training camp at the National Sports Centre in July, attended mentoring opportunities with Manx Sport and Recreation’s coaches and began delivering sessions in September.
Emma Callow, Community Sports Development Officer, said:
‘Our 10-year Strategy for Sport aims to increase physical activity in young people and engage them regularly in community sport.
‘The Sure Sports Leaders, who are all in Year 12 at school, have given up time to support sports activities for children in the community and have further improved their confidence and knowledge of sports coaching.
‘Over 14 weeks, they completed an impressive 657 hours’ between them in a wide variety of settings, including primary schools, community sports clubs and Manx Sport and Recreation activities.’
On Friday at the Sure shop in Douglas, the two students who clocked up the most hours’ coaching during the autumn term received their rewards.
Jack Maylin, who attends Castle Rushen High School, completed an impressive 56 hours and received a £100 Sure voucher. Alex Jackson, from St Ninian’s High School, received a £50 voucher for his 55 hours.
Sarah Jarvis, Sure’s Marketing Manager, praised the leaders, saying:
‘The number of hours these young leaders have completed in one term is commendable, particularly if you consider they are also studying for their A levels. Their passion for sport and sports coaching is admirable at such a young age and I’m sure it will stand them in good stead in the future.’
Recruitment for the 2015/2016 Sure Sports Leaders’ Programme gets under way next month when Year 11 students will be given presentations on how to get involved.
For further information on the programme, ring Emma on +44 1624 688557 or email her via Emma.Callow@gov.im
