Volunteer Spotlight: Amanda Thompson

At Blaydon Harriers, our volunteers are the heart of everything we do, and this month, we’re shining our volunteer spotlight on Amanda Thompson, one of our brilliant Coaching Assistants who helps lead our Thursday induction group.

Getting Started

Amanda began volunteering nearly two years ago after an illness meant she couldn't run herself. Missing the energy and camaraderie of training sessions and the friendships she’d built at the track, a friend suggested she get involved with the club’s younger athletes, and she hasn’t looked back since!

"I was able to support their sessions every week, catch up with my friends afterwards and get the buzz of training that I felt I was missing. The added bonus was that my son joined a short while later, so it’s something we get to do together every week".

What Volunteering Involves

Amanda helps run fun, inclusive sessions that introduce young athletes to all areas of athletics, including field events. Alongside fellow coaching assistant, Faye, she leads sessions, takes registers, sets up equipment, and supports athletes at events, all while making sure everyone feels welcome and supported.

"I absolutely love volunteering because I get the privilege of coaching some wonderful young athletes. Watching the effort, determination and resilience they show week in, week out, to achieve their goals is amazing! I love watching the progress they all make and the sense of achievement they get when it all comes together, whether that be in a training session or a race".

Favourite Moment

One of Amanda’s standout moments is watching the younger athletes take part in their first cross country race:

"My favourite memory is the first time I watched our younger athletes in a cross country race. They all ran their hearts out and you can’t help but feel proud that you’re part of that."

Why Volunteering Matters

Amanda’s connection to athletics runs deep, she first started running at just nine years old and was hooked from her very first visit to the track. Volunteering has given her a way to stay involved in the sport she loves and give something back to the community that shaped her.

"Athletics has always been a huge part of my life and it’s great being able to give something back."

Thinking About Getting Involved?

Here's Amanda's advice:

"Do it! Blaydon is such a welcoming club. It’s a great way to give something back to the local community."

We’re so grateful to Amanda and all our volunteers who make Blaydon Harriers such a special place. Want to get involved? We’d love to hear from you! Find out more about volunteering opportunities, or please get in touch through our quick online form, or chat to a coach or committee member.