Name: Srikanth Balaji
Course: MSc Sports Management
School & Dept: School of Sport, Exercise and Health Sciences
Current Year: 2023/24
Srikanth Balaji
Volunteer Manager (BUCS Big Wednesday), Events Assistant, Sports Presenter, Sport MMC Volunteer, Ticketing, Car Park Steward, Way Finding, Spectator Services.
Srikanth has been a devoted volunteer showcasing a great attitude towards supporting his fellow volunteers in ensuring that each event runs smoothly. Always there to lend a hand, Srikanth always goes above and beyond the role he has been assigned, often staying back to ensure that the event has been a complete success
Tell us a little bit about yourself (hobbies, interests and background):
I’m Srikanth Balaji from Bangalore, India, and I’m currently an MSc Sports Management student at Loughborough University for the 2023/24 academic year. I am an avid fan of Liverpool Football Club, Steven Gerrard, Kobe Bryant and Dwight Schrute. I love being in a sports environment and in my leisure time, I actively participate in volunteering at various sports events, contributing to my passion for sports and community engagement. Additionally, I have a keen interest in acquiring proficiency in a European language and am presently learning French as part of my personal and professional development. My hobbies include playing racquet sports, running, and staying fit.
How did you first get involved in volunteering within sport at Loughborough?
I was introduced to the Loughborough Coach and Volunteer Academy by a close friend who is also a Loughborough alumnus. My first volunteering experience was as a ticketing officer at the NFL Academy game in October 2023. Since then, I’ve had the chance to volunteer at over 10 sports events, both within Loughborough and various Sport NGBs.
During your years at Loughborough what have you got involved in through volunteering within sport?
During my year at Loughborough University, I took on several volunteering roles with various organisations. I served as an events assistant for American Football, Rugby, Athletics, and Football at Loughborough University. Additionally, I was the Volunteer Manager for BUCS Big Wednesday, an MMC Volunteer for Volleyball England, covering games in the Volleyball Super League, and a Hockey Maker for the England Hockey Super 6s Finals 2024. I also volunteered as a Sports Presenter for the Loughborough Lightning Netball Team in collaboration with Alan March Sport Ltd. and as a Social Media Assistant for Archon Fitness League. These experiences have allowed me to develop valuable skills and connect with professionals across the sports industry.
What has your experience volunteering been like whilst at Loughborough?
Volunteering at Loughborough University has been an unforgettable experience. Being part of a university known for its world-class athletes and major sports events in the UK was truly inspiring. This experience allowed me to develop a wide range of transferable skills and helped me build strong connections within Loughborough Sport. I’ve thoroughly enjoyed my time volunteering here.
How has being involved with Loughborough Sport helped you develop and progress (personally and professionally)?
Being involved with Loughborough Sport has significantly enhanced my communication, time management, organisational, and customer service skills. These skills are essential for success in any career, and my experience volunteering at various sports events and working with different teams has deepened my understanding of the sports industry in the UK. As a result, I’ve had numerous opportunities to interview with various sports organisations, positioning me well to start my career.
What’s the best advice you could give to a Loughborough student looking to get involved in volunteering & gain the most out of their university experiences?
My advice is to embrace every opportunity and say yes as often as you can. Every event, conversation, and even mistake offers a chance to learn something valuable. If you don’t take the initiative, you’ll never know what possibilities might unfold. Loughborough University has an outstanding sports campus, so make the most of it by volunteering and participating in various sports.
Finally, what do you enjoy most about volunteering?
I enjoy and value the relationships I build with the people I meet while volunteering, as we work together towards the shared goal of contributing to the world of sports.
Feeling inspired?
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