B:Active – University of Bristol Sport

The Power of Sport Volunteering in Communities

Posted on July 24, 2024July 24, 2024 by Megan Leeson

This week’s blog is from our Development Officer in Sport Inclusion, Joe Leaver, who visited Ghana in 2016 to support a local football club. Hear about Joe’s experience of sports volunteering and the power of sport in communities!

Back in 2016, I decided to use my football coaching and playing experience to support a football club just outside of Accra, Ghana. I had long been interested in football development and knew that there were many talented footballers in Africa for whom opportunities to develop themselves in the sport barely exist. I wanted to volunteer and offer my services in a way that would help. (more…)

5 Reasons Why You Should Go Out and Walk in the Rain

Posted on November 16, 2023 by Megan Leeson

This week’s blog post is from our Development Officer, Molly Poulter Williams, as she gives 5 reasons why a rainy walk has more well-being boosting benefits than you think!

At this time of year, it’s difficult not to think that certain creatures have got it right with this hibernation malarkey. However, as tempting as it is to spend the next 6 months cocooned in your cosiest blanket, we’re here to tell you five reasons why you should grab your waterproofs and head out for a walk in the rain this season:

(more…)

From Student to Staff Member – Christine’s Story

Posted on August 31, 2023August 31, 2023 by Megan Leeson

Christine O’Shea shares her experience from transitioning from a student at the University to becoming the new Sports Development Assistant in the Sport, Health and Exercise department.

Hi, I’m Christine and I recently graduated from the university with a Social Policy and Politics Degree. During my course, I became interested in public health which led me to jump at the opportunity of becoming the new Sports Development Assistant!

From the outset, I knew I would enjoy the position which includes helping the progression of the B:Active programme, as in my second year of university I was a regular participant at B:Active sessions. (more…)

My SEH Journey – It’s more than just sport!

Posted on February 23, 2023February 23, 2023 by Beck Throup

This week’s blog is written by former student and current Sport, Exercise and Health staff member, Hannah Soodeen.

Hannah, a University of Bristol student wearing a graduation cap and gown, smiling. — Hannah at her graduation

Prior to coming to university, I had an image of university sports being full of posh, scary athletes who were unintentionally intimidating to a not-so-sporty gal like myself. I quickly learnt that there is a lot more to sports than what meets the eye. Through my experiences with the SEH department at the uni I have found the friendliest, loveliest people who just want every student to be involved in sports. I have also learnt that there is a lot of effort put in behind the scenes, for example a whole world of catering, admin, organization and communication in order to create inclusive sporting opportunities for everyone. (more…)

B:Active – A Day in the Life of a Student Activator

Posted on November 25, 2022November 25, 2022 by Beck Throup

Maddy celebrating at the end of a run! Hi, I’m Maddy. I am a 4^th year Medical Student here at Bristol and I am also in my 4^th year of working for B:Active as one of the student activators. My role in the department has taken many different forms over the years, especially throughout the pandemic, but now that things are (hopefully!) settling back into normality I thought it was about time to take you through a typical day in my life on the B:Active team. I am currently on placement in Gloucester Royal Hospital so on weekdays I join our admin meetings remotely and keep up with the team that way. On the weekends however, I am always back on Bristol soil and so I thought it would make the most sense to talk you through my typical Saturday, as this is when I truly get my B:Active fix.

(more…)