Time has flown by for our Schools and Coaching volunteer Leo. Now aged 17 years-old, Leo has been volunteering for just over a year and has already had a big impact on staff and participants.

He has been put forward as a volunteer, who goes out of his way to ensure participants get a meaningful experience. This is about going above and beyond to make each session one to remember.

At the time of joining the Trust, he was just 15, but already had aspirations and a direction he wanted to go in with his career. ‘’Football has always been my passion, so any role in this would have been great. Hearing about the Trust, I then knew that I specifically wanted to be a coach''.

After researching Derby County Community Trust with his family, Leo realised there were opportunities to help communities and build on his coaching skills here. He reached out to a member of staff and was immediately put on the volunteers list. ‘’Musonda was the one who returned my call. He explained what I’ll be doing, when and where.’’

Leo mostly works on the Trust’s Weekend Club and can be often found supporting staff and sometimes taking the lead in some sessions.

There isn’t anything Leo would avoid helping with. Every session, he shows determination and enthusiasm. His motivation to keep going are the participants themselves. Leo said ‘’I like seeing the kids who I saw when they first started, develop into better players through our coaching. I just enjoy learning how to be a better coach and picking up advice from those around me’’.

Confidence has grown in Leo and has demonstrated an ability to develop as a coach. His improvements have correlated with his commitment, with Leo attending every session regardless of the weather. ‘’I am always willing to do what they need. If they need help setting up… I’ll do it. If a ball goes over the fence, I’ll go get it… there’s nothing I won’t do to help the team.’’

Creating meaningful experiences is a value Leo takes with him every week. ‘’I Just make sure that every person is involved; despite age, gender, or ability. They all need equal opportunities. You just need to have a laugh. You know when they leave with a smile on their face, it’s been a good experience for them.’’

Leo finished by saying; ‘’It feels good to be mentioned this week. I feel quite proud of myself. Having done for it for over a year, then to get some recognition now, it’s a great milestone. I am happy with how far I’ve come.’’

See the rest of our nominated Volunteers!