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David Brawley
What got
you involved in volunteering?
I was a student at Forth Valley College studying Sports Coaching &
Development HND. I was offered a placement with Falkirk in the Community
to gain experience through-out my studies. I was asked to assist the
under 13s coach as they ventured into their first season as an eleven
a-side squad. Since then, over 4 seasons ago, I have been hooked.
What has been your most positive experience as a volunteer?
The aim is that we will lift the cup or win the league one of these days
but its actually far more important that these young players are able to
develop their skills and enjoy taking part. A big part of the role is
building confidence and helping encourage the boys both as individuals
and as part of a team. Its not just about football these are actual
skills for life. The players learn how to co-operate with each other in
ways that will stand them in good stead for how they deal with other
people in their community generally. Of course it also helps them to be
fit, active and healthy too.
How important is volunteering to your club?
Football is for all. Football can be fun. Football can motivate and
inspire! Football also brings excitement into the lives of many people,
young and old. Over the past few years, Falkirk Football in the
Community Scheme has strived to develop closer links with local people,
schools, clubs and organisations through their common interest...
football. This would not be possible without the valuable time,
expertise and passion of volunteer coaches.
What is so special about being involved with Falkirk in the
Community?
As a volunteer with Falkirk in the Community you can get free tuition
and self development progression through the likes of Coerver Coaching
in-service training days. You get the feeling of being part of an SPL
club and the players do as well. The teams get to wear Falkirk strips
and full training kits at a cut price. Coaches and players also get the
chance to watch the 1st team on a regular basis.
What support do you receive from Falkirk in the Community?
You get massive support with regards to registration forms for players,
pitch leasing and all other league association business. During the
winter months Falkirk in the Community will organise all weather
surfaces for the teams to train at. Also for the unforeseen events that
a coach cannot make a game or training, the club will do all they can to
step in and help, so that the team are not let down.
How can
any new players join your Club?
It is very simple for new players to get involved; they either contact
the clubs office or team coach and are invited to train with the team.
They are usually put on a trial basis for a few weeks and then progress
from there. Each new season there are trials held for new players to get
put through their paces and get involved.
What do
you like to do with your spare time?
My life is generally taken up with football these days, when I am not
coaching the team through the week (Mondays & Wednesdays), I am training
myself with an amateur team (Eastfield AFA) who play in the competitive
Fosters Central Amateur Leagues (They should easily win the league to be
honest). My Saturdays are football orientated, I have the under 17s
game in the mornings, 10am kick-off. I then head off for my own game for
a 2pm kick-off which can be anywhere in the Central Regional belt. Other
than football I love spending time with my 2 daughters and girlfriend,
we enjoy a wide range of activities including walking my Staffordshire
terrier Rocco.
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