Tell us about what do you currently do?

My name is Emily, and I’m from Cardiff. I work at Cardiff Council as a Corporate Apprentice within the Major Projects Team, where I support a range of exciting projects as a Project Support Officer. Outside of work, I teach hockey at Cardiff and Met Junior Hockey Club. I also enjoy going to the gym and making time to relax and focus on my own health and wellbeing.

Tell us about your sporting background.

My earliest sporting memory is going horse riding at six years old - though I didn’t last long because I kept falling off! I tried swimming and gymnastics too, but neither were the right fit for me. Everything changed when I discovered hockey. It became the first sport I truly stuck with, and I achieved several awards, including Coach’s Player and Welsh Champion. I've played for Cardiff County, Whitchurch Hockey Club, and Cardiff and Met Hockey Club.

What is your area of interest when it comes to accessing sport?

Like many people, the Covid pandemic really affected my confidence. When sport started back up, I felt like I didn’t quite fit in anymore. My confidence and passion had taken a hit, so I stepped back from playing to focus on my GCSEs.

After my exams, my club invited me to volunteer at their summer hockey camp, and I immediately said yes! I went on to volunteer throughout the 2021/22 season with the U8s and U10s at Cardiff and Met, and for the past few years, I’ve been Head Coach for the U8s.

Coaching this age group has been incredibly rewarding. For many of them, it’s their first ever experience of sport, and I love creating an environment where they feel welcomed, supported, and excited to learn and grow.

Why did you want to become a member of the Youth Board?

I first heard about the Youth Sport Trust through a teacher who encouraged me to apply. My PE teachers have always supported me in my coaching journey, which inspired me to give something back to the community that helped rebuild my confidence.

Although my school is known for producing major sports stars like Gareth Bale, Sam Warburton and Geraint Thomas, I felt there was still a lack of equality and representation for girls. Through the Youth Board, I hope to be a voice for girls who may not always be heard or seen.

One of my biggest role models is Lucy Bronze - she inspires me with her dedication, her influence on and off the pitch, and the way she constantly strives to be her best. But my greatest inspiration comes from the young players I coach. I want every one of them to have the best possible experience in sport, and I continue to advocate for them in everything I do.

If you could change one thing about sport or physical activity for young people, what would that be?

I would reduce the barriers that stop young people from taking part in sport. As a female athlete, I’ve experienced challenges such as self-confidence issues and worries around feeling comfortable and confident in sporting environments. These can hold young people back from performing or even participating. I want to ensure that every young person - regardless of gender or background - has equal, inclusive opportunities to enjoy and thrive in any sport.

Tell us a fun or interesting fact about yourself.

I’m a big fan of country music! My favourite artists are Lainey Wilson and Cody Johnson.