Name: Sharon Knott
Age: (Optional) 49
Club/Association: Currambine Netball Club INC
Role: Life member / Registrar
Give us a snap shot of what your volunteering role(s) consists of:
I’ve volunteered in a number of roles within CNC and have taken on these roles, and like most vollies, took on the roles because no one would step up.
I started as a coach in 2008, took on an additional committee role – Fundraising/events in 2009, which I did until 2011.
Coach & Fundraising/Events – 4 season (2008 – 2011)
In 2012 I took over as President, it was a hectic year as I was also diagnosed with Breast Cancer. CNC and our members played an important role in my treatment/recovery and I’ll always be thankful for the kindness that our members and association (JNA) showed me and my family. (The kids loved seeing my big smiley bald face at the courts)
President – 6 seasons
Vice President – 1 season -Mentored the new President and committee
Registrar – 1 season – Great but busy role using My Netball.
Why did you start volunteering?
Like most parents, I volunteered to coach my daughter’s team so they could register the team. It was also important for me to spend time with my daughter, as my son had been born with a life threatening birth defect, so much of my time was spent caring for him. Taking on the role of her coach, meant we had something that we both love, that was only for us. She is 20 now and we go to the West Coast Fever games together, and most recently the Diamonds v Silver Ferns game.
My Dad has been heavily involved in a soccer club as the club president, so it felt natural to say yes to coaching, then taking on the role of President.
What do you love most about volunteering?
The BEST thing about volunteering is interacting with the athletes. My heart explodes when I watch them play, to see how much they love playing and making new friendships and being proud and confident in themselves is really priceless.
It’s also thinking outside the box in how we as a club, can develop our athletes and coaches on and off the court.
How has being a volunteer benefitted you?
Volunteering has given me new skills and given me the opportunity to share the skills I already possess with the committee. It gave me confidence to interact with people on all levels, has made me resilient and has given me life long friendships. Volunteering also has benefits for your mental health, which at times has been tested during my volunteer roles.
What piece of advice would you like to pass on to new or current volunteers?
Volunteering is challenging and rewarding! You are part of a team, who are making a difference in young peoples lives.
Remember to have fun along the way
Interested in getting involved with Volunteering? Click here for more info.
