WITH school out and longer days ahead, GAA clubs are encouraging young people to make the most of their summer by stepping up as volunteers.

For many teens and young adults, summer brings a welcome break from the classroom. But it’s also an ideal time to give back to the community, develop valuable life skills and gain hands-on experience.

That’s why summer is the perfect time for your club to focus on recruiting young volunteers. It provides is a great opportunity for young people to get involved in a meaningful way. Clubs rely on volunteers to keep things running smoothly, and our younger helpers bring fresh energy, creativity and passion.

Volunteering roles range from helping with coaching younger age groups, delivery of summer camps and organising events to assisting with admin, social media, the tuck shop, litter picks or maintenance of sports facilities. No prior experience is needed – just a willingness to learn and contribute.

In addition to being fun and rewarding, volunteering can also bolster university applications and job prospects.

It’s a chance for young people to develop teamwork, leadership, and communication skills – all while supporting a healthy, active community.

The Sports Inspire Awards Programme provides young volunteers with an official recognition of their efforts, signed off by the Minister for Communities and delivered by Ulster GAA, Ulster Rugby and the Irish FA.

Young Gaels count their volunteering hours, and are awarded when they hit 50 hours, 100 hours and 200 hours volunteering.

The hugely popular programme is straightforward for clubs to run but has a big impact in showcasing the impact young people can make to our sports and make our clubs better.

Any club or volunteer can sign up for Sports Inspire Awards by emailing Sharon.haughey.ulster@gaa.ie for a full information pack and registration form to get started.

Summer is also a perfect time to have access to young volunteers for delivering courses in coaching, safeguarding, officiating, first aid etc.

Young people are more available over the school holidays to participate in meaningful skills development, so clubs are urged to think creatively about transforming their pitches and facilities into a hub of activity, involving young people and attracting more volunteers to help around the club.

Developing the skills of young volunteers is a great way for clubs to build a pool of volunteers who can assist with wider club activity.

Some clubs successfully run weekly litter picks and encourage their young people to assist with club clean-ups to help freshen their facilities and to help boost pride of place.

In association with Translink, Ulster GAA continues to deliver the Young Volunteer of Month award, clubs are encouraged to nominate outstanding young volunteers for this award.

Nominations are always of a high standard and reflects the amazing work that is being done across clubs in Ulster by young inspiring volunteers.

For more information on this programme, log onto www.ulster.gaa.ie/youngvolunteeraward.

Whether you’re a sports enthusiast or simply want to contribute to a positive local environment, volunteering this summer could be the start of something great.