Volunteering leads to recognition from football legend

A Teesside graduate has been awarded a prestigious Coaching in the Community award – one of only three students in the UK to receive the accolade.

Shaun Smith, who has just completed a BSc (Hons) Sport and Exercise (Coaching Science), was presented with his award by England and West Ham football legend Sir Trevor Brooking during a lavish ceremony at the Birmingham NEC Arena.

Shaun began volunteering as a coach during his first week at the University and was chosen for the award by the organisation Step into Sport, which recognised the quantity and quality of his coaching.

A positive and rewarding experience Speaking about his volunteering experience, Shaun, who is originally from Pickering, said: ‘It has opened plenty of doors and created new opportunities for me.

‘The main project I have worked with is Second Chance, a scheme working with drug offenders and people going through rehab between the ages of 18 and 40. They come in and we coach and mentor them a couple of hours each week. We look at improving fitness and getting them involved in sport.

‘Of course it’s satisfying when you see improvements and some of the lads have started doing coaching badges themselves.’

Shaun came to Teesside after being impressed with what he saw at an open day and his advice for other students is to follow in his footsteps and get involved with volunteering.

He added: ‘I would definitely encourage people to get involved with the volunteering side of things when they study at University. ‘Yes, it is going to help them with their career, but it’s enjoyable as well, especially working with the sport and recreation team who can help you in a number of ways.’

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