Volunteering
Galas don't run themselves. Behind every race, every result, and every swimmer stepping up on the blocks, there's a team of volunteers making it happen. That's you — and we genuinely couldn't do it without you.
Whether you can give a few hours at a gala or want to take on something more regular, there's a role that'll suit you. No experience needed for most — just a willingness to muck in.
Why Volunteer?
You'll be right in the thick of it
Galas are brilliant — fast races, nervous swimmers, proud parents, and a buzz you can't really describe until you've been there. You get a front-row seat to all of it, and you're part of what makes it work.
You'll actually make a difference
Timing, marshalling, announcing, running the club shop — without people doing these things, the event simply doesn't happen. When a swimmer gets a personal best, you're part of that moment too.
You'll meet good people
Coaches, parents, officials from other clubs — the swimming community is a friendly one. Most of our regular volunteers will tell you the social side is half the reason they keep coming back.
You might surprise yourself
Plenty of people come along to help out once and end up discovering they love officiating, or announcing, or running the results desk. There's more to it than you'd think — and training is available for most roles.
What Roles are there?
Whether you want to be poolside, behind the scenes, or helping run the club itself, there's something for everyone.
Support & Club Culture
Fundraising — organise activities and apply for grants to keep the club going.
Social Media & Website — keep our online presence alive and our community informed.
Competitions Secretary — plan and coordinate which galas we attend and who's going.
Chaperone — look after swimmers during travel or overnight stays at away meets.
Club Captain — be the voice of the swimmers and help keep team spirit high.
Poolside & Events
Coach or Assistant Coach — help lead training sessions (qualifications required).
Poolside Helper — support coaches during sessions, especially with younger swimmers.
Team Manager — coordinate logistics and welfare at galas (training and DBS check required).
Timekeeper — record race times at competitions. Training is provided.
Marshalling — get swimmers organised and ready before their races.
Club Governance
Chairperson / Vice Chair — lead and oversee how the club operates.
Secretary — handle communications, meeting minutes, and general admin.
Treasurer — manage the club's finances, budgets, and payments.
Membership Secretary — register members and keep records up to date.
Welfare Officer — make sure every swimmer feels safe and supported.
Volunteer Coordinator — recruit, organise, and look after our volunteers.
Specialist Roles
SwimMark Coordinator — oversee compliance with Swim England's quality standards.
Technology Team — support timing systems and event tech at galas.
Recording Team — manage results and data entry during competitions.
“No volunteers, no event. It really is that simple — and we’re grateful for every single one.”
Interested? Drop us an email and we’ll find the right role for you.
pr@derwentsideasc.co.uk