When you think about it, sport has just about everything. It teaches teamwork and inspires camaraderie. It develops skills and instils confidence. It’s fun – and it’s even good for you.
That’s why Lloyd’s Community Programme is actively involved in sport, and why people such as Sara Thomson from Clyde & Co take time out to coach kids. She said: “It’s so fulfilling to see the enjoyment on the children’s faces during a sports session and to help them to celebrate in their achievements week to week.”
Sara works in the Company Secretarial Department of the legal firm Clyde & Co, one of the programme’s member companies. She had mentored some young people before, so when the opportunity came to volunteer her energy and encouragement at Blue Gate Fields Junior School in Tower Hamlets, she jumped at the chance.
Once a week at lunchtime, Sara and other colleagues get themselves over to the school for a 45-minute sports coaching session with children in Years 5 & 6.
Eyes on the prize
Mostly, it’s about gaining some sporting skills and having fun in the fresh air, but occasionally there are big plans afoot.
Earlier in the year, they were giving the children cricket coaching in readiness for the Lloyd’s Cricket Cup held at the Brit Insurance Oval in April. Many of the 9-10 year olds had never played cricket before or taken part in a tournament. Come the big day, Sara and her colleagues guided the Blue Gate Fields team to fourth in the tournament, with one of the girls awarded the prize for best player.
Then in June it was football’s turn, with all eyes on the Lloyd’s Football Cup at Leyton Orient Community Sports Ground. Sara recalled: “The boys were well up to speed with football, but many of the girls had never played it. It was great to encourage them to work together, develop their techniques, become a proper team and fight for their place on the playground’s football area.”
Kathy Halpenny, Head Teacher at Blue Gate Fields commented: “We really appreciate Sara taking time out of her busy working week to be a sports volunteer at our school. She’s a great role model for our students, and makes the sessions such fun.”
This successful volunteering could not take place without the support of Sara’s employers Clyde & Co. Senior Partner Richard Britain said: “We have a long tradition of supporting voluntary work and charitable giving. Not only is it right that we should give something back, but there are many benefits to be gained for the individual, the firm and the profession."
If you love sport, how about volunteering through Lloyd’s Community Programme? Whether you can spare a lunchtime a week, or a one-off day a year, contact Community Affairs at Lloyd’s on +44 (0)20 7327 6144 or email natalie.tickle@lloyds.com.
