Committed volunteer aspires to develop disability sport up North.
By William Moncrieff, Communications Apprentice
Highland Disability Sport (HDS) branch recently welcomed Alison Thompson, as the newly appointed branch administrator. Alison was initially interested in the position after volunteering for the branch at their multi-sports and athletics club. She comes with a wealth of experience after working many years in disability sport across the world.
During her time working at a local sensory school in Inverness, Thompson attended a trip to the London 2012 Paralympic Games. Fiona Green, still an active employee at HDS, joined her on the trip and together they witnessed first-hand the positive impact that role models and sporting icons can have on up-and-coming athletes.
This experience, coupled with her admiration for the HDS team, influenced Thompson’s decision to apply for the position as branch administrator.
Her work as a volunteer not only fuelled her passion for disability sport but also developed her awareness of the importance of the social elements that sport provides. Thompson understood that by creating an inclusive environment, more people can benefit from this social impact.
Her interest was heightened when she took a year out from employment and travelled to Australia. During this trip Thompson worked at sensory schools and was fortunate to work at the national games for Special Olympics Australia, where she helped run the football tournament.
So far in her new position at HDS, Thompson is really enjoying meeting current athletes, coaches, and volunteers – experiencing all the great work that is being done by the branch.
Looking towards 2024, Thompson is already organising and planning exciting, inclusive opportunities, such as the Highland Parasport Festival. The festival will take place on Saturday 3rd February at the Craig Maclean leisure centre.
Travel is currently being planned for athletes and this is always a vital learning opportunity for young people on their ‘playground to podium’ journey. With competitions taking place throughout the country, events like this provide athletes with a valuable travel experience.
Events like this further highlight the important roles played by parents, teachers and coaches.
A further ongoing challenge is the requirement for more volunteers. The HDS branch need more volunteers to continue providing current sessions and events. Simultaneously, volunteers will allow the branch to continue to develop the ecosystem of Para sports and new opportunities.
Thompson believes that new, creative ways should be employed to showcase how rewarding and inspiring volunteering can be, in order to attract new volunteers.
In 2024, Thompson is keen to meet more athletes, coaches and volunteers; eager to hear their stories and understand how they got involved in disability sport. Additionally, she is eager to attend major events outside her region, to learn and consider whether these activities can be implemented in the Highlands.
