Volunteering
What is it that motivates the vast number of unsung heroes who ensure Triathlon is so well managed and events run so smoothly year after year? Naturally the enjoyment of being outdoors, mixing with like minded people and giving something back to the sport; its competitors, marshals and referees is high on the list.
From the estimated 70,000 volunteers required for the Olympics/Paralympics games to the 5 or 6 needed at a small community event; all are invaluable and in triathlon this is no different.
With sports amazing participation level and increasing numbers of events the volunteer community is vital to the continued success.
British Triathlon full time Volunteer Development Officer Sarah Williams recognises this and is working towards the volunteer strategy. The formalisation of the role and recognition given to volunteers is certainly helping the sports growth. Listed below are the roles in which you can volunteer in; event or club:
- Event Preparation / Take down
- Registration Desk
- Help Desk
- Marshalling
- Time Keeper
- Referee
- Coach
- Volunteer Co-coordinator
- Club Treasurer
- Media Officer
- Vice Chair
- Club Secretary
- Club Vice Chair
- Talent Search Coordinator
- Webmaster
- Club Chairperson
The British Triathlon website www.britishtriathlon.org has pages dedicated solely to volunteers. Here you can find out how to get involved in volunteering; with full descriptions of all the roles and keep you up to date with important issues concerning volunteers. You will also hear about new initiatives which may be of interest to you or your club. Should your event or club need volunteers or a referee you can send enquires to sarahwilliams@britishtriathlon.org
The best way to keep in touch is by registering as a British Triathlon volunteer. By doing so, you will receive information on all relevant volunteering opportunities including being the first to hear about events such as the Corus Elite Series, Corus Kids of Steel and National Championship Events. You will also receive bi-monthly newsletters containing news views and updates, as well as being in with a chance to win British Triathlon merchandise. Upon registering, you are not obliged to do anything, nor are you committing yourself to anything. It is our way if keeping you informed of what is happening and what events you could get involved in. We want to be able to support you in the work that you do and by registering with us we hope that we can begin to do this.
For more information on Volunteering in Triathlon, including the Volunteering in Triathlon DVD please go to our website www.britishtriathlon.org or e mail me at sarahwilliams@britishtriathlon.org