Weightlifting Wales joined in the celebrations last week to marks Volunteers’ Week 2026, by showing our appreciation for all our amazing volunteers within weightlifting/para powerlifting across Wales. From volunteers within our clubs, to loaders, technical officials, and coaches at competitions, they are all play a vital role in the development of all levels within our sport.

Throughout the year, our volunteers dedicate countless hours to supporting training squad environments, officiating at events, mentoring athletes, and helping create welcoming and inclusive communities within our clubs. Their contribution often takes place behind the scenes, but its impact is felt across the whole nation. Volunteers' Week provides an opportunity to pause and celebrate the efforts of all those individuals. 

On this year's volunteers week, here from some of our volunteers (coaches and technical officials) about their experiences and why they value the importance of volunteering.

How would you describe the coaching community in Wales? "The coaching community in Wales is full of people who are open to sharing their knowledge and I have learnt so much from spending time with coaches who have a different approach to me. Everyone is willing to learn from each other and contribute towards your exposure and development. There are so many clubs and coaches in Wales who have given me an increased breadth of knowledge that has helped further my skill set." - Leah Clarke, Regional Volunteer Coach

Why do you think volunteering is important in sport?

"Volunteering plays a vital role in sport because it underpins the delivery, fairness, and accessibility of competitions at every level. Without volunteers, many events simply wouldn’t happen. Roles such as coaching, officiating, and event support help create structured, safe, and enjoyable environments where athletes can perform and develop. It also strengthens the sense of community within sport, bringing people together and fostering shared responsibility for its success." - Rhys Taplin, Technical Official

"Volunteering in sport is important.  Nothing would be achievable if we did not have volunteers. Competitions just would not be able to take place.  Every position in the team, from TO to loaders to coaches and even the people that take the tickets on the door.  Everyone is as important as each other. Considering being a volunteer and be part of a team and stay involved in the sport that you love." - Caroline Charles, Technical Official

"I can't think of any Sport that could function without people volunteering and becoming a Technical Official is just one proactive way that people can either become, or remain involved in sport."  - Russell Willey, Technical Official

Why do you think volunteering is important in sport, and what would you say to someone considering becoming a Coach? "Coaching is immensely rewarding, not only in the achievements within the sport but seeing people grow and evolve, start to believe in their capabilities and trust their minds and bodies."  - Holly Knowles, Regional Volunteer Coach

What do you like about being a TO and volunteering at event? "I enjoy being Technical Official because I enjoy the sport of weightlifting and I respect the technical officials from my past history who worked hard and consciously to ensure they ran a good competition. I  see myself replicating their hard work."  - Sandra Smith, Technical Official

On behalf of Weightlifting Wales, thank you to every volunteer who contributes their time, expertise and enthusiasm to our sport. Your efforts make a genuine difference to athletes, clubs and communities across Wales.

If you are interested in becoming a volunteer and supporting the future of weightlifting/para powerlifting in Wales, we encourage you to get in touch and discover the many rewarding opportunities available within our sport.