My children took part in some Dragon Sport sessions at the Royal Welsh Show - and absolutely loved them. So when a local Dragon Sport hockey club was set up, they couldn’t wait to join.

Because I had my young son with me during sessions, I had to keep him entertained, so I ended up setting out cones, collecting equipment and generally helping out while the coaches ran the sessions. I progressed to helping with driving, picking up children who live nearby and taking them to sessions and matches.

I have been amazed by how much enjoyment both the children and I get out of the club - the time just flies! I also feel that listening to the coaches deliver the sessions and witnessing the interaction, between them and the children and the children and one another, has given me a greater understanding of how to play with my own children and structure interesting, interactive games at home.

I’ve found that joining in, rather than standing by and doing nothing, has given me a much greater understanding of how a club should be run. If my children ever want to attend another club or group, I will know what to look out for and what should be in place to make sure my children are safe.

The time commitment is minimal - about 2 hours per week with the travelling- but it’s so flexible and easy going, you can do as much or as little as you want. Also, you don’t have to go out and get a qualification - you can just do a little, as every bit helps to run the club. There’s no obligation, and if I wasn’t actually
helping out I’d probably be standing on the sidelines - getting cold and bored.