This module interested me as I thought a practical module where I got to engage in sport at some level or another would help to guide me in my future career. Already having experience in gymnastics coaching I thought it would be best for the university to source my placement for me in something out of my comfort zone, so I could push myself to gain some knowledge in a sport which is foreign to me.
I was placed at Coach My Sport with my mentor Tony. Tony and I had exchanged some emails backwards and forwards before having a conversation over the phone about which days would be best for what I want to achieve during my time on placement. He highly recommended that I came on Fridays from 2-6 as during this time, there was a large variety of age groups and activities that would take place. This interested me due to the fact I wanted to gain some experience in a field that I knew nothing about in order to challenge myself and take me out of my comfort zone. The age groups ranged from 3-11-year olds with activities such as dodgeball, cricket, floorball and other activities that targeted different skills such as orientation, eye hand and eye foot, moving and jumping and rhythm and dissociation. While also focussing on different functions and speed. The programmes for coach my sport are progressive and structured that is based in a fun and enjoyable environment. Prior to talking to Tony, I was quite nervous about taking on this placement due to my lack of knowledge, however I was also excited to try something new and throwing myself in the deep end.
Starting from this week I will be participating in Coach My Sport at the Dunblane Community Centre each Friday for four hours. I have been informed that during my first week there is no preparatory work, and no pressure to take part. However, I look forward to going in on my first day and throwing myself into the role as I feel the only way, I will take away a lot from this experience is if I put a lot into it. I am excited to work alongside other coaches and with kids of different ages. Sport has always been a passion of mine and it will be great to coach kids who share that same passion. I’m hoping that this will be an overall pleasant experience that will shape me into a great coach and guide me through my future career. I am really looking forward to getting started.
This sounds like a really varied placement, it should be great for developing your skills in working with different groups. Good luck!
Ross