Teenager Henry keen to keep giving back to the swimming community

Teenager Henry Russell-Ross said the desire to give something back to the swimming community is his motivation to keep on volunteering.

Henry was the Youth Volunteer of the Year at the 2019 Swim England National Awards – and the tributes have continued to pour in since then.

The Beacon Swimming Club member fractured his arm twice in the space of 12 months which led him to helping out more – and his commitment was certainly noticed.

“An email was sent out from the chairman to the whole club and I got a mention in assembly,” said Henry. “It was very nice to be appreciated by my club and school for my achievements.

“It made me feel that my volunteering was valued and I wanted to continue – I want to give back to the swimming community.”

Since the National Awards last year, Henry has continued to volunteer poolside, supporting coaches with their sessions and also officiating.

Furthering ‘volunteering career’

He was able to officiate at the Sussex County Championship and was set to volunteer as a member of field of play at the British Championships before it was cancelled.

During lockdown Henry has continued to engage with his club by attending the sessions organised by the coaches.

He is also taking advantage of the online training available and hopes to complete a Team Manager Qualification soon.

And he is already part way through his Level 1 Swimming teacher online hosted by the Institute of Swimming.

Even though Henry is looking forward to returning to the pool himself, he is still looking to further his ‘volunteering career’ by completing his British Swimming Judge 2 Qualification.

If Henry’s story has inspired you, visit our volunteering pages to find out how you can get involved and take the first steps on your aquatics volunteering journey.