Clubs like Dukinfield Tigers could not operate without the services of a number of committed volunteers. We are not a business, but a not-for-profit organisation run entirely by volunteers. Despite having successful teams in most age groups we still need a number of volunteers to ensure that we can offer football to all age ranges.
The following Q&As might just inspire some of you out there to join our ranks…….
Do I need previous experience?
No. You just need to like football and be willing to work at it. We can place you alongside more experienced coaches at first to get you started. Many of our coaches started out as parents turning up for sessions with their children.
Do you offer training / coaching badges?
We do, in fact we insist on it. All our teams have a coach trained to FA Level 1 which includes safeguarding and emergency first aid. The club pays for this, but you will need to allocate some time to do it.
I can’t commit to training every week or to every match – does this matter?
Ideally it is best to have two coaches per team so that if someone can’t make it, the other person can cover. Our coaches are very good at helping each other out as well so if you are ever stuck you just need to ask! We need to offer regular training and matches but we are realistic – sometimes despite your best efforts there may be no option but to miss a week, which is fine.
What’s in it for me?
Whether or not your own children are in the team that you coach, volunteering and coaching brings huge benefits. It’s a great way to start on your coaching badges, if that’s what you want. It’s a great way to meet other people and keep your own fitness up at the same time. Seeing the young people develop their skills and teamwork brings great rewards! Research has also shown that volunteering can have positive impacts on happiness, mood, self-esteem and mental health. One study in 1988 found that half of volunteers questioned said that volunteering gave them a ‘high feeling’ something which they dubbed, ‘the helper’s high‘.
What do I do next?
Whether you can offer to support an existing team or lead a new team for many years, please get in touch (see below)! Tell us what you want to do and what support you may need. Go on, give it a go!
email us: dukinfieldtigers@gmail.com
Dukinfield Tigers JFC 