VOLUNTEERING
VOLUNTEER AT YOUR CLUB
Swimming clubs don’t run themselves. Club swims and events don’t just happen. If you are a member of a swimming club, why not volunteer your services? You needn’t run for president of the committee to make a worthwhile contribution to your club. Cake bakers and timekeepers are always needed, and many clubs also offer opportunities to take coaching qualifications so you can give back by being able to coach your team mates. Think about how your skills could make a contribution to club life: if you love organising holidays, why not organise a club trip to a cold water swimming competition; if you have good IT skills, volunteer to update the club website; or if you love writing, offer to edit the club newsletter.
“I think it’s important to put something back,” says Nicky Smith, who volunteers at South London Swimming Club, where she is the Summer Handicapper. “I don’t want to race, but I’m happy to help others who do by organising handicaps and timekeeping at races. It’s very rewarding to help others achieve their ambitions, whether it’s to swim a width or a mile.”