We caught up with some of the YPSP members to discuss this month’s theme: role models. With plenty of non-stop sporting action thanks to the return of the Commonwealth Games on UK soil, there’s no shortage of inspirational sporting heroes to be inspired by! Let’s hear what they had to say…
Molly
I couldn’t pinpoint one singular role model for me growing up. Instead, I’d have to say it was the older girls I saw at training, my own teammates, and my coaches who would get involved every week. Being able to see these people who were so inspiring to my younger self and realising that getting to that position was a very attainable goal kept me motivated when things got a bit more challenging.
"Role models were, and still are, all around me within my sporting community, and although I do take great inspiration from the athletes and sportspeople I see on the international stage, I still find myself looking up to each one of my teammates to this day."
Role models can help people to see their own potential. Reinforcing the idea that you could achieve more, could be an important step for people who may not have considered the possibility of personal success.
For me, role models need to be realistic.
Explaining that it wasn’t easy, that they had to put in the work, might mean that a younger person won’t be put off when there are setbacks or obstacles to tackle. I believe that everyone is a role model to someone.
Being on the YPSP has given me a platform to express my views and share my journey. At a recent local event, I presented the ‘Fit for Girls’ workshop to several girls and was able to speak to them on a personal level about their sporting experiences. In situations like that, I hope younger girls are looking at me and my sporting pathway and can take inspiration from that. It’s so important to reiterate that sport isn’t just being an athlete, there are so many other roles and truly something for everyone. One of the YPSP aims is to increase participation for young people in sport, and I would love to think that just being a part of the panel is a step towards inspiring others.
Everyone has a story to share, and each of those stories are inspirational in their own ways. I’m constantly learning so much and finding myself in awe of my fellow panel members, and everyone we have met along the way!
Stephanie
Growing up, I took part in Athletics - especially running. Laura Muir has always been my biggest role model. Not only is she a dedicated female athlete but she also worked hard to attend university and achieve her degree which included a lot of volunteering hours.
There are many qualities that I look for in a role model; humility – a good role model isn't scared to ask for help when they need it. They give credit where it's due and learn from others. Positivity - a smile and happy vibes can make such a difference to those around you. Be a person that people want to be around. Self-awareness - be aware of how people perceive you. Ensure you are aware of how you treat and speak to people.
As a female coach in a male dominated industry, I feel I have shown other females that they can succeed in sport and achieve their goals. I also feel I have been a voice for other young people in sport throughout Scotland.
My favourite part about being a role model is being someone’s source of inspiration. Just like I did growing up, I want others to have someone to motivate and look up to.
"I want to be able to show young people that they can face many obstacles and challenges in life and yet still succeed and be happy."
Louis
My boss, and formerly my coach, Richard, has been a huge role model for me. His passion for cricket inspired me to play and coach and motivated me to constantly work harder to improve.
I believe that role models should be self-confident and have a positive outlook where possible. Role models can provide an example to others as to what attitude they could show in order to have a positive impact.
Locally, I’ve found myself becoming more prominent in the sport scene, due to my role on the YPSP.
"This has been a positive outcome of being on the panel, that more and more young people are asking me about the work I do and why it matters."
I love getting to mentor younger leaders in sport. It’s amazing to see younger people finding their confidence in the world of sport, I find that incredibly rewarding.
Laura
One of my previous coaches Andrew has been my biggest role model in sport. He has helped me develop not just as an athlete but as a person. He has gone through his own challenges and has come through them, a hardworking individual who always strives to be better and improve.
"Role models are important as having someone to relate to when things aren’t going well can make you feel less alone and help you see that there are ways to get to where you want to be."
Role models can be important in influencing an individual’s actions and motivations so having a good leader, who shows empathy, communicates well, solves problems and is proactive can encourage others to do the same.
I think through the YPSP I have been a role model by encouraging people to speak out and be heard, to influence sport as a young person. I hope to have inspired other young people with a disability to have their voices heard and show them they can have a positive impact.
Encouraging people to take part in sport, not just as a participant but in leadership roles is my favourite part. I know the difference it can have on your life, so I love having a chance to help others discover that!
Kira
My biggest role models would have to be my PE teachers. When I was still in school, they all supported me in everything I did and helped me get to where I am today. They were so influential that I’ve decided to follow in their footsteps and I’m now studying to be a PE teacher.
I believe that the qualities a role model should have are excellent communication skills and the ability to be present, to show others what they are doing to let them be positively influenced by their actions.
I think the whole panel put a lot of effort into making it onto the panel in the first place and getting the experience to be selected - that commitment I think is something to look for in a role model.
"Personally, I’ve tried to accept any opportunities I’ve been offered and make the most of them to show others that they could do the same."
Just knowing that we’re viewed as role models is amazing. However, knowing that we have the potential to create an impact for young people in sport is a dream come true.
Find out more
- About the Young People's Sport Panel
