Ulster Rugby v Ospreys

ULSTER RUGBY VOLUNTEER PROFILE: AARON EDGAR

and nearly all communication is carried out via email. With the introduction of the new Game Management System and the eTeamsheets, the need for computer literacy is even more important. I would also say a high level of organisation is required, as in most cases I would work to a deadline, the submission of team sheets and reinstatements being an example. Why do you volunteer? I feel that it is the best way I can contribute to the continuation of the Club. How often do you volunteer? My role would require regular focus throughout most weeks as opposed to set days per week, whether it is submitting team sheets on time or preparing agendas and minutes. What do you enjoy most about volunteering? I enjoy being more actively involved in the running of the Club. Why would you encourage others to get involved? I personally believe that the social aspect is a great draw. I also think that it is a great way to build contacts and develop skills that could be transferred through to a work place environment. What has been the highlight of your volunteering? I would say that being able to volunteer during the current resurgence of Grosvenor has been the highlight so far. What advice would you give someone who wants to start volunteering? I think the best advice would be to get involved. Clubs will always need volunteers to help out. I would always say never discount what you could offer because there are many different roles that require a wide array of abilities and skills to fulfil them. Do you have to come from a Rugby background or need Rugby knowledge to volunteer with a rugby club? I don’t believe it is necessary to come from a rugby background to volunteer in a rugby club. I personally haven’t played rugby since school, however I don’t feel that this has been detrimental

What is your volunteer role within Ulster Rugby? Assistant Honorary Secretary for Grosvenor Rugby Club. What does your volunteering involve? I assist the current Honorary Secretary in all aspects of his role with the intention of assuming the role fully for the start of the 2018/19 season. I prepare the agenda for, and minute, the Club Management Committee meetings. I prepare and submit the team sheets to the Branch each week, including any reinstatement requests that need to be made. I maintain players’ records for each team, recording how many times a player has been selected for each team. I also manage the new Game Management System for Grosvenor. When did you first begin volunteering? I volunteered in for quite some time by running ballots on a Saturday or at social functions. I assumed the role as Assistant Secretary at the beginning of the 2016/17 season. Have you had a previous volunteering role elsewhere? This is my first experience of having a volunteer role. What inspired you to get involved? My father played for Grosvenor Rugby Club, so I was brought up within the Club and spent most Saturdays as a child at the matches and in the clubhouse. I also went to Grosvenor Grammar School. I have great pride in the club and wanted to do more to help out, so when I was approached by the President and Chairman to take over the role of Honorary Secretary I was only too happy to accept. What attracted you to the role? My background is in administration, so I felt that it was a role I could be most effective in. I also was attracted by the prospect of becoming more involved with communication between ourselves and other clubs. What skills or qualities are required for your volunteering role? I believe good computer skills are essential. Agendas and minutes are produced on MS Word, player records are maintained on spreadsheets

VOLUNTEER PROFILE: AARON EDGAR

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