Owner/Coach: Sports Bug
What does a typical day look like for you?
A typical day for me often revolves around responding to parent and school enquiries and organising our coaches’ schedules. A recent passion of mine has been to engage with schools and not only focus on Physical Education but to concentrate on how children can learn other subjects like maths through sport/activities. This really benefits children who may find learning in a classroom environment more difficult than others. When I am not in meetings or behind the computer, I enjoy coaching as often as I can as this is where my passion originated from. There is nothing more rewarding than this for me.
How did you get your job? / What training, degree, education do you need?
I have always had a keen interest for sport, if I’m not doing it, I’m watching it, therefore as you can imagine I was always desperate to get into the sports industry. As a result of this, I started at Sports Bug when I was 14 as an assistant, this is also where I completed my trident. I pursued on-the-job training, acquiring coaching badges across various sports and obtaining essential qualifications in child safeguarding. The experience I gained during these years was invaluable and lead me to where I am now. For anyone looking to get in this field I would advise to try and gain experience though a coaching role and from there you would know which areas to focus and gain expertise.
What are the most important skills needed for your role/job?
When considering my role as owner there are crucial skills such as communication, organisation and leadership that are essential for me to fulfil the role. However, when considering the role of coach, I would say the ability to communicate with children in an engaging manor as well as being able to adapt to the unpredictability of sessions. It is vital to ensure that the children are enjoying themselves and getting the most out of our sessions, this can take a lot of thinking on your feet!
What is the best part of your job? / What motivates you in this role?
The most rewarding part of my job is the joy and energy the kids bring daily, which is always reflected in big smiles and lots of enthusiasm. Additionally, witnessing children’s growth, especially in activities like football, where beginners evolve into skilled players prepared for local clubs, brings immense satisfaction and makes us proud of the work we do.
What advice would you give someone interested in a career in your profession?
For those aspiring to pursue a career in my profession or a similar role, I would advise to get all the experience you can. This can simply be through volunteering or working as an assistant. Jersey has lots of sports clubs and establishments that I’m sure would appreciate an extra pair of hands! Additionally, alongside this attaining a level 1 coaching badge in a specific sport is a valuable first step to becoming a qualified coach.
What is on your bucket list and why?
This is a tough one, when considering my bucket list, I would say my bucket list trip would be going to the Superclásico in Argentina to see Boca Juniors play against River Plate. Aswell as enjoying the amazing culture, food and scenery South America has to offer.
