Volunteer Hero -Robert Brookfield
Rob coaches the Under 9’s at Chorley Panthers Rugby League club. He volunteers approximately 5-6 hours a week on top of his teaching commitments at college. This involves two midweek evening training sessions as well as Saturday morning and then match day on a Sunday
Rob decided to get involved with the club two and a half years ago after taking his son to play for Warrington Wolves Disabled team and finding out he was more than capable of playing for an able bodied team.
After helping out with training and match days he took the reigns over as head coach following a retirement and has now successfully completed his Level 2 coaching award.
“I see volunteering as a way to pay back to the community. If I can offer something to someone else it’s great to pass on certain skills and knowledge - and this is probably why I became a teacher too.
“I do it for the kids because watching them play rugby league is fantastic and they love it. Seeing my lad in the team progress and making friends is also great to see.”
With 28 children to deal with, that could be seen as a bit daunting but Rob revels in the community spirit that comes with the sport. “Rugby League has a fantastic community feel and there’s always a great feeling around the club,” he added.