Hi, my name is Jessica Allen, and I am running for Sports Chair at the University of Derby. Over the past four years, I’ve had the privilege of being deeply involved in the sporting community at Derby. I’ve served on the badminton committee for three years – first as social secretary, then as Secretary for two years – and I have been a sports council member for the last two years. Alongside this, I’ve been a sports scholar for four years, Women’s Badminton first team captain for two years and helped launched the bi-weekly Flag Football ‘Just Play’ Sessions.
My passion for sport and commitment to the student experience has motivated me to run for sports chair. My goal is simple, to elevate the sporting experience for every student at Derby. I want to provide opportunities for every sports club, regardless of size, background or ability to flourish.
Key Contributions So Far:
- Bucs Takeover: I have played a role in the success of the BUCS Takeover initiative, which highlights and celebrates the sporting achievements of each club every Wednesday.
- Sports Awards, Varsity & Freshers Fair: I have supported the organisation and delivery of Sports Awards, Varsity and Freshers Fair over the past 2 years.
My Main Goals that I want to achieve as Sports Chair:
1. Promoting Accessibility & Inclusivity
One of my key priorities is ensuring that sport at the University of Derby is accessible to everyone. Whether you’re on a performance team currently, aspiring to be one, or a new sport everybody deserves fair accessibility.
- Expand Participation: I will work to provide more opportunities for each sports club ensuring they all are given the chance to access S & C for their club.
- Inclusive Initiatives: I will aim to continue to support all clubs in growing, whether they are currently a small or big club, my aim is to ensure that no sport feels that they are not being given support.
2. Improving Facilities & Resources
For our sports teams and individual athletes to thrive, we need access to facilities, equipment, and support systems. With the constant growing sport at the university, we need to ensure each club is being given fair access to facilities.
- Facilities: I will work with the university to support current facilities that are accessible to sports clubs, ensuring each club is given adequate training times to support their growth. As-well as supporting clubs who train off site.
3. Strengthening Competitive Sport
While participation is key, I also want to focus on building the University of Derby’s reputation in competitive sport. As Sports Chair, I will aim to ensure our teams have the support they need to succeed at every level.
- Team Development: I will help provide support for all our sports teams, ensuring they have the coaching, training, and resources they need to perform to the best of their ability.
- Recognition of Success: Celebrate the achievements of our athletes, whether they are part of a competitive team or pursuing personal sports goals. Through social media, promoting sporting success, helping to raise the profile of university sport, making sure that every student knows what sports clubs are available to them at the university.
In conclusion, my goal is to create a sporting culture at the university where every sport receives the necessary resources to succeed. I am dedicated to promoting, supporting and celebrating the sporting excellence of all clubs across the university.
If you believe I am the right fit to drive this vision as sports chair, I would greatly appreciate your vote.
Thank You!!
Jessica Allen (Jallen)