Volunteering

All clubs and events need volunteers to keep them running and in many cases to ensure that they grow and develop as well. There are always volunteering opportunities for adults in rowing. These can range from boat maintenance to regatta entries, helping at functions to clearing the landing stage. All these essential jobs have to be done by someone - could it be you?

Taking on a club committee post is not the only way to volunteer to help your club. Many clubs now have volunteer co-ordinators to ensure that all the volunteering roles in the club are properly defined, not too onerous, and that there are people to fill them. Roles that may initially seem daunting can be broken down into more manageable chunks and shared between a number of people. Why not ask if there is something you could do?

Clubs and events are the lifeblood of rowing and it is the volunteers who keep the clubs running and the events happening and who are owed a debt by all the participants out there. If you think you would like to put something back into your sport speak to your club or contact your local CDO who will be able to offer advice on getting started.

Alternatively contact Rory Semple the ARA’s Volunteer Support Manager who will also be able to help. Some guidance and training resources available here.

Volunteering Case Study: Paul Calvert

"When the captain of York City Rowing Club suggested I should attend the ARA level 2 coaching course I was knocked for six. My association with the club had been short and I had no experience of coaching."

Read more about Paul's experiences