Cymryd Rhan

Tracey Weetman retired and relocated with her husband from Staffordshire to Ynys Mon in 2020. Having turned up at Menai Track and Field to offer her services, she is now a very active volunteer and has even won the Welsh Athletics Newcomer to Officiating Award.

HOW DID YOU START VOLUNTEERING?

My husband’s always been involved in athletics clubs and I used to sit and watch. I was working shifts as a nurse so it was difficult to squeeze in volunteering, too. But when I retired and we relocated to Anglesey in 2020, he asked the club if they needed a sprints coach while I decided to give officiating a go.

WHAT DO YOU DO?

I’m now a Level 2 field official and I’m also the Welfare Officer for the club which means I make sure everyone’s up to date with safeguarding policies and I answer enquiries.

WHY DO YOU DO IT?

It’s a great way of joining in and getting to know people. The club is like one big family – it’s wonderful. I’ve also decided to learn Welsh so it’s a brilliant way to practise my language skills!

HOW DOES VOLUNTEERING MAKE YOU FEEL?

It’s fun and rewarding and it makes you feel like part of the community. It was a great way for us to integrate when we relocated.

WHAT WOULD YOU SAY TO PEOPLE THINKING ABOUT VOLUNTEERING FOR A SPORTS CLUB?

If you fancy joining in and lending a hand, just give it a try. It’s a great way of using your skills and experience in a very positive way.

Tracey’s Top Tip: Ask other volunteers at the club why they like doing it.

Tracey has been appointed North Wales T&F official secretary. If you are a North Wales Official you can contact Tracey directly.