Jarrod Hands named Sportivate Participant of the Year

Jarrod Hands has been named as the region's Sportivate Particpant of the Year, being recognised for his contribution and commitment to sport and physical activity.

The 14 year old, who studies at South Wigston High School, got into sport through the LADs project (Live Active Do Something). The project opened up a whole new world of physical activity, with Jarrod's enthusiasm meaning he went far beyond the project to excel in sport and activity.

The Sportivate project has spurred him on to attend the Energy Community Club, playing an active role in supporting and taking part in the sessions. One of the benefits of physical activity is an increase in confidence and self esteem, and with Jarrod, this is no exception. Now helping to lead evening sessions for primary school children, he supports professional coaches through preparing and helping to encourage the children.

Speaking of the award, Jarrod said: "The LADs project was great; it motivated me to do more sport. I then started the Energy Club and found out I could help others to play sport and exercise. Thank you for the recognition, I didn't expect it".

Jarrod's achievements have not gone unnoticed, with the award followed by complimentary words from John Byrne, CSP Director for Leicester-Shire & Rutland Sport. He said: "We are delighted that Jarrod has been recognised for his work – he is fast becoming an excellent role model to his friends and fellow pupils. We look forward to seeing how the Community Energy Club grows and thrives with his help"

Sportivate gives 11 – 25 year olds who are not participating in sport in their own time access to six-to-eight weeks' of free or subsidised coaching in a range of sports and activities. Once the coaching sessions are completed, the participants are matched up with a local club or venue where they can continue to play.

Over the last 6 years LRS alongside local partners have engaged with over 20,000 young people aged 11-25 across Leicestershire, Leicester and Rutland and over 15,000 of those young people have missed no more than one session.

Jarrod is one of over 780,000 young people nationally who have attended Sportivate sessions with more than 650,000 completing their coaching sessions.