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Young Fife Para Swimmer Enjoys Considerable Progress and Success

Young Ollie Carter from Cupar continues to make significant progress under the guidance of the coaches at the University of Stirling. Training has been going well and he is pleased with the progress he has made since he became an undergraduate and moved away from Fife. Ollie is very respectful of the coaching team at Cupar Swimming club and the late Russ Green in particular who recognised he had a future in Para swimming and signposted him appropriately during his early years.

Since the last update, Ollie has had three competitions. Edinburgh International (15-17th March); the Eindhoven Swim Cup (11-14th April); World Championship trials aka British International at Tollcross International Aquatics Centre Glasgow (24-28th). All of which went extremely well for the ex Carnegie SC member.

Ollie had three events in Edinburgh, 50 fly – 29.72 new Scottish record and his 18th overall as a top Para swimmer. 50 free – 27.22 another PB and Scottish record. 400 free – 4:36 on this occasion no PB but Ollie swam faster than he swam in the meet in Geneva.

Eindhoven was an incredible experience for Ollie and he reckons it was one of if not the best competition he has ever been fortunate to compete in. Travelling to an elite competition with the Stirling University squad was a unique experience. Ollie loved the Netherlands and the pool was exceptional. Eindhoven was perfect preparation for the Trials. Ollie was able to practice racing skills in a competition environment.

Ollie also had three events in Eindhoven and made the finals in all his events and managed to swim faster in all three finals. 200 free – 2:06.25 a new PB and Scottish record and placed 2nd fastest in the S10 class.
400 free – 4:29.4 again faster than his last swim over this distance and skills improving greatly. Ollie was placed placed 3rd in the S10 class.
200 IM – 2:28.87 a new PB and Ollie is pleased he is getting closer to the Scottish record help by Paul Noble at 2:27. Ollie was placed third again in the S10 class.

The final event of three was the World Championships Trials in Glasgow. Ollie was delighted that the classification review he was expecting went according to plan. A huge relief for the ex Bell Baxter HS pupil. Once again Ollie’s performances were impressive. 100 free – 57.62 and a significant PB and Scottish record. Ollie was second fastest swimmer in the S10 class.
400 free – 4:27 and again faster than two weeks previously. Ollie was second fastest in the S10 class.
100 breast – Ollie had to swim 100 breast for classification purposes and he swam a PB of 1:18 but was disqualified because of a bad leg kick. Ollie was surprised at the decision but accepted it and moved on.
50 free – 27.05 and another PB and new Scottish record. Ollie was delighted that he was almost down to “26” section and finished second fastest in the S10 class.
100 fly – 1:05.94 – another significant PB for Ollie and he was pleased yet again to be challenging another record still held by Paul Noble. Ollie was 5th fastest in the S10 class

A magnificent series of performances in the three major meets Ollie has been involved with over the last few months. I am reliably informed that Ollie sits somewhere between 4th and 9th in the world rankings and he is number one in the S10 class in Scotland and Great Britain. Ollie like many other swimmers is disappointed not to be heading to the World Championships but is delighted he has made such significant improvements since he moved to Stirling.

Not surprisingly Ollie is determined to work even harder to achieve his dream of swimming for Team GB. Over the next few months Ollie has the Glasgow International, British Summer Meet and potentially a meet in Berlin as well. Best wishes Ollie and very well done at the Trials and other major meets.

Richard Brickley MBE – Chairman DSF (SCIO) Board of Charity Trustees.

Fife Wheelchair Racer Heads to London Mini Marathon

Best wishes to Callum Sloan from Dunfermline and Queen Anne HS who heads off this weekend with his family for the Virgin Money London mini marathon. This will be Callum’s fourth London mini marathon and supporting him will be his coach Pamela Robson.

Callum is Fife’s only ever London mini marathon participant. Callum revived an interest in wheelchair racing in Fife when he was at primary school. DSF was able to purchase his first racing chair thanks to the fund raising efforts of the Saints netball club at the University of St Andrews. Pamela was his first and only coach and a racing squad has been built around him that now has seven members.

On race day London is a very special place to be. Last year Callum was able to catch up with Callum Hawkins which of course made his weekend. The appearance of Louis Hamilton, his other hero, would have rounded off his weekend perfectly. Callum lives in hope. (this is a hint to anybody out there who can make this happen)

Richard Brickley MBE – Chairman DSF (SCIO) Board of Charity Trustees.

GB National Tennis Academy Performance Coach

Salary: Competitive + attractive unique benefits package (subject to experience)
Contract Type: Permanent
Location: Scottish National Tennis Centre, University of Stirling Closing date: 3pm on Friday 10 May 2019

JOB DESCRIPTION

Introduction

Tennis Scotland is excited to operate a new National Academy at the University of Stirling, a crucial part of the vision to make Britain one of the most respected nations in the world for player development. The central Scottish location is unique and at the centre of our tennis development plans via the University of Stirling, sportscotland institute of sport and our National Player Programme.

Full information can be found on the Tennis Scotland website here.

Job Description – Stirling National Academy Performance Coach
Job Advert – Performance Coach at GB National Tennis Academy at the Univ…

Basketball Scotland Membership Development Officer

JOB DESCRIPTION

To administer and develop the basketballscotland’s membership system, processes and benefits, the Membership Development Officer will work to improve existing processes, data and reporting. The role will also be responsible for maintaining and developing key policies, including Child Protection and Equality.

POSITION IN ORGANISATION

Reports To: Participation Manager
Direct Reports: n/a
Budget Responsibilities: n/a

OBJECTIVES

  • Administer and improve the basketballscotland membership systems and processes.
  • Administer and maintain key basketballscotland’s policies and procedures, including Child Protection and Equality

KEY DUTIES & RESPONSIBILITIES

Membership Systems and Processes

  • Maintain accurate membership records and provide support and advice to clubs and individuals using the basketballscotland systems
  • Monitor membership figures and develop creative techniques to best utilise this information to develop and grow basketball in Scotland
  • Provide regular reports to assist with monitoring and reporting and to inform planning in order to meet key basketballscotland objectives
  • Recommend improvements to the efficiency of processes across all areas of the business, in particular around the membership system
  • Development of the Azolve Membership system to improve efficiency of systems and processes

Club Services Support

  • Support the development of relationships with clubs, working alongside the Regional Team
  • Develop systems, processes and reporting that support and inform clubs.

Policy & Process Development

  • Administer and maintain basketballscotland’s Child Protection policies and procedures
  • Lead the Equality Team to ensure basketballscotland are developing their Equality Policy and relevant processes
  • Recommend improvements to the efficiency of administrative processes across all areas of the business

For full information see the basketballscotland website here.

RNIB Scotland Shape and Share

We would like to extend an invitation to all families of vision impaired children and young people to join us in having a fun-filled day!

Where?
Lochside Community Education Centre, Lochside Road, Ayr, KA8 9LH.

When?
Saturday 27th April from 11am-4pm

Who?
Vision impaired Children, Young People and their Families

Itinerary:
11:00 Arrivals and Tea, Coffee, Juice and Biscuits
11:30 Welcome and Introductions
12:00 Activities
13:15 Picnic Lunch with the Haggeye Family
13:45 Activities
16:00 Goodbye and thanks
16:30 Depart

Age-appropriate activities will run throughout the day, including the Haggeye National Meeting, ‘Hugby’ VI Rugby Taster sessions, Arts and Crafts, African Drumming workshops, Personal Safety, sensory space and much more!

Please complete and return your application form by 5pm on Wednesday 17th April to; Rosine Pybus, RNIB Scotland, 12-14 Hillside Crescent, Edinburgh, EH7 5EA or e-mail to: cypfscotland.Mailbox@rnib.org.uk. If you would like further information or assistance please contact Rosie Pybus on 01316523154 or 07885210792.

Shape and Share Registration Form

Scottish Cycling Business Operations and Events Administrator

CONTRACT TYPE: Full time, fixed term position

SALARY: £18,041 – £19,102 per annum (dependent on experience)

REPORTING TO: Business Operations Manager

CLOSING DATE: Monday 22nd April (midday).

Scottish Cycling is the National Governing Body for cycling in Scotland and the largest cycling membership organisation. Our home base and the performance hub for our sport is the Sir Chris Hoy Velodrome which was built for the 2014 Commonwealth Games in Glasgow. Working across six different disciplines of cycling, we are committed to a range of initiatives from playground to podium to create a Nation of Cyclists, maximising participation for all and delivering ongoing international success.

As part of the delivery objectives identified in the Scottish Cycling Strategy 2019-2023, Scottish Cycling has identified Events as a key vehicle to success, providing opportunities and outcomes across all areas of the cycling landscape. Events provide a focal point for clubs, associations, riders and volunteers at all levels from the first local racing opportunity through to regional, national and international competitions on the world stage.

Sound and effective systems and processes are essential to an organisation’s success as it continues to grow and deliver across a number of priority work streams. Ensuring our central office support services are effective, efficient and implemented in a streamlined manner is critical to providing a professional service to our membership, staff, volunteers and key partners.

Scottish Cycling is therefore delighted to offer a new opportunity in role of Business Operations and Events Administrator until 31 March 2020 in the first instance, with the possibility to extend.

Full details can be found on the website here:
https://www.britishcycling.org.uk/scotland/article/20190405-Job-Opportunity–Business-Operations-and-Events-Administrator-0

Fife Welcomes Back Talented Para Swimmer

Throughout his school days Craig Smith was one of Fife’s most promising para swimmers. Post school Craig took time out from swimming to concentrate on his future in higher education and employment.

The brilliant news for Disability Sport Fife and Scottish para swimming is that Craig is back in light training and has decided to participate in the Scottish Senior Championships for physically and sensory impaired swimmers. The championships are scheduled for Saturday 13th April at Grangemouth Sports Complex and will be organised by Scottish Disability Sport and Scottish Swimming.

Inspired and supported by ex-Paralympian Lara Ferguson, Craig first decided to put to use his Scottish Swimming Level 1 qualification. Craig was welcomed enthusiastically on to poolside by Glenrothes SC and over the past few months he has established himself as a very popular young teacher. Lara and Craig are in the process of completing their Level 2 swim coaching qualification with support from Fife Council and bursaries from Disability Sport Fife.

Craig was also welcomed on to the Young Start programme with Steven McCormick. The programme is organised by Scottish Disability Sport. The programme will support Craig’s aspirations in volunteering and coaching as well as training and competing.

Best wishes Craig, thank you Lara and Glenrothes SC coaches and swimmers for your support and encouragement. Glenrothes Amateur Swimming Club is a truly inclusive swimming club.

Richard Brickley MBE – Chairman DSF (SCIO) Board of Charity Trustees

Ayrshire Sportsability Trustee Vacancies

Recruiting body: Ayrshire Sportsability

Role: Ayrshire Sportsability Trustee

LocationAyrshire

Ayrshire Sportsability (ASA) is a voluntary sport group where the main aim is to lead in the development of sport for people with physical, sensory or learning disabilities in partnership with key local agencies in Ayrshire. ASA is a member branch of Scottish Disability Sport (SDS) who are the governing body of sport for athletes and players with a physical, sensory or learning disability. ASA achieved SDS Minimum Operating Requirements (MOR) which ensures all governance is up to date and appropriate.

ASA wishes to recruit 3 Trustees to join the Board. They would have a strong and visible passion and commitment to ASA, its objectives and cause.  As a Board member, they will have a collective responsibility for setting the strategic direction and development of the charity, whilst ensuring sound governance and best value at all times. ASA is required to comply with Scottish Charities Act as well as other relevant legislations. Board members have responsibility for ensuring that the activities are carried out in accordance with these requirements and the ASA Constitution.

The Board encourages applications from individuals from diverse communities and backgrounds. ASA seeks applicants with experience and expertise particularly in marketing/promotions, communications/media, health and well-being, stakeholder engagement and local sports communities, finance and fundraising.

Interviews

DATE: Thurs 16 May (2.00 to 6.30pm)

Applications

For an information pack and Application Form, please contact the Chair at admin@ayrshiresportsability.org.uk .

Please return the completed Application Form to the Chair at admin@ayrshiresportsability.org.uk by no later than Tuesday 23rd April 2019.

If you have any questions or would like more information, please contact the Chair at admin@ayrshiresportsability.org.uk

British Kickboxing Council Voluntary Vacancies

In addition to the below, the BKC is also looking to attract Non-Executive Directors and other advisors to the Board and several committees (such as the Professional Referees Association).

All voluntary positions can be conducted from anywhere in the UK and entirely in your own hours – all we ask is that you commit as much of your time as you can to the role.

Visit http://the-bkc.com/get-involved/job-listings/ for a full list of vacancies.


PR/Comms Officer
VOLUNTARY – PART-TIME

The BKC is a non-profit organisation, with a Board of Directors which consists of senior members and representatives from a variety of Kickboxing associations and an Executive Board made up of sector specialists and passionate supporters of our sport.

Our immediate goal is the recognition of Kickboxing under the Sports Councils and to gain official National Governing Body status for the BKC. To that end, we have been working for nearly 10 years to create a system of governance, guidance and support for the sport, agreeing upon its direction and development by way of democratic processes which aim to give control over the sport to the sport itself.

Job Description

As PR/Communications Officer, you will be the voice of the BKC, taking responsibility for all internal and external communications, press releases and messaging. Sitting on the Executive Board, the PR/Comms Officer will work with the team to help promote the sport, the BKC and it’s many local/nationwide projects. Although the role is not completely autonomous, as decisions which impact either the sport or the BKC must be put to a vote, your voice will be heard at AGMs, EGMs and regular ongoing discussions regarding the governance of the BKC, and you will be given the chance to propose and manage your own projects.

Responsibilities Include

  • Ensuring that project progress and launches are properly communicated within the BKC and to its Members.
  • Coordinating nationwide promotional campaigns for the sport, including events, courses and participation drives.
  • Working with our existing partners to capitalise on all available communication channels and opportunities for mutual promotion.
  • Work with the Executive Board and Board of Directors to ensure that internal and external Comms are consistent, properly branded and timely.
  • Developing new partnerships with media outlets, influencers, activators and promoters (inc. our Ambassadors).
  • Researching new promotional opportunities, keeping on top of the events calendar to avoid clashes and capitalise on collaborative events.
  • Formulating, planning and delivering internal initiatives aimed at improving Comms within the sport and the BKC itself: This includes Board Members, Committee Members, Officials, Coaches, Athletes and Participants at all levels of the sport and across all disciplines.

Example Of Current Project

The BKC is signed up to Sport England’s #ThisGirlCan campaign, aimed at improving participation figures among young girls and women of all ages. Our Ambassadors would be a fine example of athletes from various backgrounds and of various ages, and would be a great place to start.

Experience

  • Experience (and ideally a qualification) in a PR/Marketing role is preferred.
  • A good knowledge of the sport would also be beneficial.
  • In addition, experience of project work, creating and understanding reports is essential.

http://the-bkc.com/job/pr-comms-officer/


Community Manager
VOLUNTARY – PART-TIME

The BKC is a non-profit organisation, with a Board of Directors which consists of senior members and representatives from a variety of Kickboxing associations and an Executive Board made up of sector specialists and passionate supporters of our sport.

Our immediate goal is the recognition of Kickboxing under the Sports Councils here in the UK and to gain official National Governing Body status for the BKC. To that end, we have been working for nearly 10 years to create a system of governance, guidance and support for Kickboxing community, agreeing upon its direction and development by way of democratic processes which aim to give control over the sport to the sport itself.

Job Description

As Community Manager for the BKC, you will own the two-way flow of information and ideas between the Council, it’s Committees and the tens of thousands of Kickboxers across the UK. Working with the PR Officer and various Project Leads, the Community Manager will focus on ensuring maximum engagement with the Kickboxing community, from casual participants to professional athletes, as well as increasing public understanding of both the sport and our work within it. The Community Manager will also sit on the Executive Board of the BKC, earning full voting rights after a 6 month probationary period.

Responsibilities Include

  • Sourcing, creating and managing engaging content for our social media channels and websites.
  • Encouraging a free flow of ideas between the BKC and the Kickboxing community, through interactive content such as surveys, polls and focus groups.
  • Liaising with Discipline Heads to appoint and maximise the potential of BKC Ambassadors.
  • Coordinating with Project Leads to ensure maximum exposure and impact for any public-facing projects within the BKC.
  • Increasing understanding of the work being undertaken by the BKC, both within the sport and without, and developing trust in that work.
  • Reporting to the BKC Executive Board and Board of Directors on the effectiveness of social media campaigns, as well as providing recommendations for future engagement programs.
  • Identifying and managing relationships with influencers and activators outside of the BKC Ambassadors program.

Experience

  • Experience of community management, ideally within the sporting sector.
  • A good understanding of social media platforms such as Facebook, YouTube, Twitter and Instagram, as well as website editors (such as Wix/Wordpress).
  • Excellent communication skills, including written and spoken English.
  • Some team management experience would be ideal.
  • Experience of project work, including creating and understanding reports, is essential.

http://the-bkc.com/job/community-manager/


Equality, Diversity & Inclusion Officer (EDIO)
VOLUNTARY – PART-TIME

The BKC is a non-profit organisation, with a Board of Directors which consists of senior members and representatives from a variety of Kickboxing associations and an Executive Board made up of sector specialists and passionate supporters of our sport.

Our immediate goal is the recognition of Kickboxing under the Sports Councils and to gain official National Governing Body status for the BKC. To that end, we have been working for nearly 10 years to create a system of governance, guidance and support for the sport, agreeing upon its direction and development by way of democratic processes which aim to give control over the sport to the sport itself.

Job Description

As Equality, Diversity & Inclusion Officer, you will champion the inclusive nature of both the BKC and the sport of Kickboxing. Although the role is not completely autonomous, as decisions which impact either the sport or the BKC must be put to a vote, your voice will be heard at AGMs, EGMs and regular ongoing discussions regarding the governance of the BKC, and you will be given the chance to propose and manage your own projects.

Responsibilities Include

  • Performing Diversity Audits of the Board and the sport as a whole to determine areas in need of development and methods by which diversity in Kickboxing can be improved
  • Ensuring the validity of the BKC’s Equality, Diversity and Inclusion policies and procedures, especially in regard to compliance with the Voluntary Code of Good Governance and other sporting governance codes
  • Ensuring that the above are implemented across the organisation and promulgated throughout its membership
  • Liaising with the Chairman, Secretary and other Standards Board members to ensure collaborative delivery of all duties
  • Forming and coordinating an Equality and Diversity committee/team where necessary
  • Liaising and coordinating with external organisations such as the English Federation of Disability Sport, UK Deaf Sport, Women’s Sports Network, Pride Sport and the Sports Councils to ensure effective delivery of both their and the BKC’s projects regarding Equality, Diversity and Inclusion
  • Formulating, planning and delivering internal initiatives aimed at improving Equality, Diversity and Inclusion within the sport and the BKC itself:  This includes Board Members, Committee Members, Officials, Coaches, Athletes and Participants at all levels of the sport and across all disciplines

Example Of Current Project

The BKC is signed up to Sport England’s #ThisGirlCan campaign, aimed at improving participation figures among young girls and women of all ages. Our Ambassadors would be a fine example of athletes from various backgrounds and of various ages, and would be a great place to start.

We have also had conversations with UK Deaf Sport and the National Deaf Children’s Society regarding ways to make Kickboxing more accessible to adults and children with hearing impairments.

Experience

  • Some experience and knowledge of Equality, Diversity and Inclusion in sport would be ideal.
  • A good knowledge of the sport would also be beneficial.
  • In addition, experience of project work, creating and understanding reports is essential.

http://the-bkc.com/job/equality-and-diversity-officer-edio/


Grassroots Development Officer
VOLUNTARY – PART-TIME

The BKC is a non-profit organisation, with a Board of Directors which consists of senior members and representatives from a variety of Kickboxing associations and an Executive Board made up of sector specialists and passionate supporters of our sport.

Our immediate goal is the recognition of Kickboxing under the Sports Councils here in the UK and to gain official National Governing Body status for the BKC. To that end, we have been working for nearly 10 years to create a system of governance, guidance and support for Kickboxing community, agreeing upon its direction and development by way of democratic processes which aim to give control over the sport to the sport itself.

Responsibilities Include

  • Communicating with the BKC Executive Board and Member Bodies to produce a national strategy for grass-roots development within Kickboxing.
  • Coordinate with clubs and promoters in your region to implement an effective Grass-roots Development plan.
  • Act as a liaison between the BKC and local project leaders.
  • Coordinate with County Sports Partnerships and with related BKC project leads.
  • Coordinate with project partners/sponsors to maximise exposure and impact of all projects.
  • Assemble and manage a team/committee as appropriate.
  • Create and deliver reports to the Executive Board and Member Bodies on the progress of various projects and the overall growth of the sport.

We are in the process of developing a brand-new grassroots development system which will provide four structured programs for coaches and which links sporting development goals with educational framework goals. This will be a key focus for the GDO initially, so experience within the education sector, physical education or enhancing positive social impact with sport would be a huge plus!

Experience

  • Some experience with project management is preferred. A good knowledge of the sport would also be beneficial.
  • A proactive attitude and passion for sport in general is essential.

http://the-bkc.com/job/grass-roots-development-officer-national/