News | SHAUN SMITH
In every aspect of life, there are unsung heroes. People who won’t shirk away from a challenge, who will give 100% in everything they do, not necessarily for a tangible reward, yet just don’t seem to get recognised.
Take Jamie Murray, brother of Britain’s latest darling, in the summer at least, Andy Murray. Jamie, unaware to many a Brit is also a tennis player, and has also just played at Wimbledon in which he also made the semi-finals, in the mixed doubles. Yes, alike to his brother he fell short at this attempt, but, even if he had won, would he really have got the same recognition?
Recognition is appreciated by all, and former Teesside University student Shaun Smith is no different.
Shaun, who originates from Pickering, has recently completed a Sports and Exercise coaching science degree at the University, yet that’s not all.
Shaun realised the importance of been able to distinguish oneself from others, hence getting involved with volunteering as early as his first week as a fresher.
Three years and a bag full of experience later and Shaun was stepping on stage at the NEC arena in Birmingham picking up a ‘Coaching in the Community’ award. One of only three students in the whole of the UK to do so.
The award, given by Step Into Sport, ran partly by the FA and partly by British Universities was a reward for the quantity and quality of Shaun’s volunteering. Volunteering which really has help him develop in his time at the University.
“It has opened plenty of doors and opportunities for me.” said Shaun. “I have done my refereeing course and got up to level two on my coaching awards.”
Volunteering is something which obviously benefits those when moving onto work; however that wasn’t the only positive factor for Shaun. The satisfaction, especially when working with hard to reach groups makes it all worthwhile for those involved.
“The main project I have worked with is Second Chance, a scheme working with drug offenders and people going through rehab between the ages of 18 and 40. They come in and we coach and mentor them a couple of hours each week. We look at improving fitness and getting them involved in sport.
“Of course it’s satisfying when you see improvements. The lads have started doing coaching badges themselves and one of them has got through to his level two!”
Teesside University was the local choice, yet seemingly the right one when looking back to that awkward time of the next step of academia for Shaun.
“The course looked good and I remember when I came to one of the open days I loved the feel around the university.”
At a difficult time to step into employment, Shaun seems to have assembled all the tools to be a real asset and although his time in Teesside is over, he continues to do carry on his hard work at home.
“I’m trying to do what I can now I’m back home, working in my community and helping youngsters here.
“I’m in the process of job hunting and it’s looking promising, but there’s no doubt the award has helped that.”
Shaun’s work ethic will no doubt be missed around the University and he was quick to point out that newcomers to university should not hold back from getting involved.
“I would want to encourage people to get involved with the volunteering side of things when they study at University. Yes, it is going to help them with their career but it’s enjoyable as well, especially working with the sport and recreation team who can help you in a number of ways.”
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