Volunteers are the backbone of sporting clubs and organisations. From participation to performance events, volunteers make sport possible — creating opportunities for people to get active and giving athletes the support they need to shine.
Volunteering in sport offers benefits far beyond the field of play. It can strengthen both your personal and professional life, opening doors to new experiences, skills and connections.
Volunteers form lasting relationships, build confidence and contribute to thriving, active communities.
By giving their time, energy and passion, volunteers help shape a more active Scotland — one where everyone has the chance to take part, feel included and be inspired.
Reasons why people volunteer
Take a look at some of the reasons why people volunteer below, and visit our Get Set for Sport Volunteering module to learn more:
All the information for “Why volunteer in sport?” below is the same and is found on this Why volunteer in sport? infographic image (PNG).
Why volunteer in sport?
Building Confidence
Volunteering gives people responsibility and purpose through meaningful roles.
Meet people
Volunteering in sport offers opportunity to build strong, meaningful connections.
Develop skills
Volunteering enables you to learn new skills, supporting you personally and professionally.
Join a community
Volunteering offers a supportive network of inclusive, kindred people.
Improve wellbeing
Volunteering in sport provides opportunity to live a more active and connected lifestyle.
Give back
Volunteering enables you to contribute to sport in a rewarding and impactful way.
What roles are available?
There are a wide variety of roles available for people interested in volunteering in sport, making it easy to find an opportunity that aligns with your skills, interests, and personal goals.
Whether you’re passionate about a particular sport, eager to support the development of young people, or simply looking for ways to give back and make a positive difference in your community, there are lots of ways to get involved. From taking an active role in delivering sessions or organising events to providing vital support behind the scenes, volunteering in sport has something to offer everyone.
Explore some of these roles below, and visit our Get Set for Sport Volunteering module to learn more.
Select the following link to watch the video, all information is repeated below Sports volunteer roles.
Sport Volunteering Roles
- Coach & Assistant Coach
- Fund Raiser
- Referee & Official
- Marketing and Social Media
- First Aid & Health and Safety
- Event Organiser & Marshal
- Wellbeing & Safeguarding
- Board Member & Trustee
Start your volunteering journey today.
How to Get Started with Volunteering
Taking the first step into volunteering in sport is easier than you might think. There are opportunities at every level of the sporting system and finding the right role is often simply a matter of knowing where to look and understanding what is involved.
This course walks you through the practical steps of getting started as a volunteer in sport, from identifying opportunities that match your interests and availability to completing the necessary checks that keep sport safe for everyone. A key part of that process in Scotland is obtaining a PVG (Protecting Vulnerable Groups) scheme membership through Disclosure Scotland, and this course will guide you through what that involves, why it matters, and how to complete the process with confidence.
By the end of the session, you will have a clear picture of the pathway into volunteering and the knowledge to take your next steps.