Gethin Owen - Former volunteer

Gethin comes from Cardiff and went to Ysgol Gyfun Gymraeg Glantaf. He started volunteering with the Urdd after completing the Urdd training weekend in Aberystwyth, and completed about 6 months of volunteering for his Welsh Baccalaureate. Gethin had a positive experience whilst volunteering which led to paid coaching work in the Urdd's local sports clubs. Following this, Gethin was offered an apprenticeship, which led to a job within the Urdd's sports department where Gethin currently works.

Gethin's experience

When and why did you start volunteering with the Urdd?

"I started volunteering with the Urdd because I needed to complete my volunteer hours for the Welsh Baccalaureate qualification in school. The Urdd sports department appealed to me because of my great interest in sports and I wanted to volunteer in a sector that I would enjoy."

What did you do during your volunteering hours?

"During my volunteering hours I worked in various clubs helping and learning from the Urdd's coaches. I assisted the coaches to run the sessions, leading some activities and sometimes I would assist children that needed more support."

Did you do anything with the Urdd before volunteering/during your time in school?

"I started my football career at 4 or 5 years old with the Urdd and attended a club on Saturday mornings. I also competed in the Urdd Eisteddfod in primary school."

Has sports always been a big part of your life?

"Sports has been a huge part of my life since I was young. I'm an avid Manchester United fan and follow Wales in football and rugby. I've also participated in a great variety of sport since I was young and still enjoy socializing with friends through sports."

How was your experience as a volunteer?

"As a volunteer with the Urdd I feel that my experience was very positive as I had opportunities to try various roles within the sector."

How did volunteering with the Urdd help you develop your personal skills and confidence?

"I feel volunteering with the Urdd allowed me to develop skills that I use on a daily basis as well as with my school work. My confidence has grown immensely since volunteering with the Urdd after having to communicate with the children I coached and with the parents. In addition to this I was able to work with a new group of people which gives me confidence to do this in the future."

Do you feel that you have benefited from volunteering with the Urdd and why?

"I feel the volunteering experiences I had have been very beneficial to me, and helps me on a daily basis and it has helped me get my current job."