Volunteer roles with Derby Phoenix
Derby Phoenix is a volunteer led club, and every member of the committee and coaching team does their role on a voluntary basis. Making such a contribution can be a rewarding and fulfilling experience and there are many ways someone can offer their time to help, some of which are detailed below.
Poolside Helper (Team Manager)
Poolside helpers assist the swimmers at open meets and galas; essentially, the helpers ensure the swimmers are ready for their races and make the most of their day. These helpers will check the schedule and make sure swimmers are prepared for their events, making sure they are in the right place on time. Typically they will work alongside a coach and other poolside helpers at events.
The role requires the individual to attend a "Team Manager 1" training course. At present these are scheduled as on-line courses.
Timekeeper
This is an introduction into the world of the swimming official. It covers the practical aspects of what is required of a timekeeper by means of a short theory session followed by a practical assessment.
The minimum recommended age for candidates to undertake this training is 14 years.
The role requires the individual to attend a "Timekeeper" on-line course and complete an assessment.
Judges/Officials
Judges are the enablers of competitive swimming events and are vital to the smooth running of open meets, galas, etc. There are several progression steps for judges, including Judge1, Judge2, Starter and referee, each with their own training requirements.
A link to more information on swimming officials can be found here, and the pathway for swimming officials can be found here
Coach
Becoming a swimming coach is popular across the UK. Nothing quite beats the thrill of a competitive race, and so swimmers often decide to become coaches after calling time on their competitive careers.
But it’s not just a former swimmer that ends up becoming a swimming coach; there are plenty of British coaches with no previous experience of competitive swimming.
If you wish to become a coach, please discuss the idea with David, our Head Coach. He will be able to advise on the necessary steps and the training required, or use the contact us form on the website to request more information from the secretary.
DBS/Safeguarding
All the roles listed above will require the volunteer to be DBS checked and trained in safeguarding. Costs for this will be met by the club.
Committee Member
The committee is responsible for the efficient running of the club. Members meet once per month, usually on the second Thursday. A variety of roles are currently vacant, each with their own time expectations. The current committee and open roles can ve vieiwed on our committee page.