My career aspirations have gone in a few potential directions over the years. From ambitions to be a farm vet shaped by a childhood on a smallholding, to studying environmental science at York with a drive to work in conservation, and finally discovering strength and conditioning through sport. Throughout all of that, I have maintained a love of being outside, exploring nature and being active. Prior to working with North Yorkshire Sport, I owned a small gym that prided itself on being an inclusive and welcoming space for people to move their bodies but also be part of a supportive community. I understand the need to belong and how this interacts with our relationship with movement throughout life – something I bring to my role as School Games Organiser and as part of the Children and Young People’s team.
Whilst many of my interests are sport oriented – namely playing and coaching rugby union, I am mostly just happy to either be outside in nature or doing something active with friends or family. I feel most at peace in a forest, watching birds or looking for fungi and actively seeking out this time has benefited my mental health massively in the past few years. A childhood obsession with Lord of the Rings has led to me owning two cats called Gimli and Legolas and I sometimes relax by making art inspired by them.
Sharing a love of movement and making this accessible to those less fortunate or able than me has always been a driving force behind the work or volunteering I do. Reducing inequalities when it comes to physical activity and health are important to me, so the work North Yorkshire Sport does to reduce those kinds of barriers aligns with my own personal values well. I work with schools in the Harrogate, Ripon and Nidderdale area to help keep children and young people moving – whatever their circumstances. Contact me if you want inspiration or support as a teacher, parent or leader of a club/organisation to chat about how we can work together and tackle inequalities facing young people across the county.
Email:Â
ruth@northyorkshiresport.co.uk
Telephone:
01423 637 662