AN INSPIRATIONAL rugby coach that promotes inclusivity and togetherness has seen his junior training camps increase from just four players to over fifty members.

Now Barry Munro, 22, has been recognised for his volunteer work with selection for the new TSB Young Leaders programme, launched at Old Trafford on July 11 and 12.

Young Leaders nominated as part of the scheme were joined in Manchester by double Olympic medallist Lutalo Muhammad, who posed for photos and took questions from the eager youngsters.

The Tillicoultry-based coach, who helps run the junior wing of Hillfoots RFC, first took up martial arts as a youngster before progressing to complete his rugby and strength and conditioning coaching badges.

“I've really got a positive, growth mindset instilled in me. I believe I can do better and there's no negativity,” he said.

“Coaching is the only thing I've ever truly done and all I've ever wanted to do. I'm blessed that I live the life I love.

“I think when you do what you love, you never work a day in your life.

“Martial Arts gave me a hunger for learning and that's never stopped for me. I've always wanted to get the edge in sport and helping people improve.

“I started with four kids playing touch rugby at my club and I've finished up on 52, so that's a really big thing especially in the small area. I'm hungry, I want to keep improving and want to get better.

“The thing I think makes Hillfoots Rugby so unique, is our philosophy that everybody plays. It doesn't matter if you're a 6'2'' superstar at 20 stone that can run through everyone, or a two-stone soaking wet through winger that can't do much.

“Everybody's involved and that's a rule from the top of the club to the bottom.”

With the programme supported from TSB in partnership with Sport for Development charity, Sported, Barry will benefit from unique training and development opportunities to support him in his leadership role at Hillfoots RFC in turn helping strengthen the community club and create even more opportunities for young people across Clackmannanshire.

Hillfoots RFC is being supported by TSB in partnership with Sport for Development charity, Sported, to help them become stronger over time and create even more opportunities for young people across Aberdeen.

The launch of the Young Leaders scheme, which saw the youngsters participate in leadership workshops, media training and team building exercises, took place across two days at Manchester United’s iconic Old Trafford home.

The programme also rewards and supports the development of the next generation of volunteers, coaches and youth workers.

Always keen to enhance his coaching skills, Barry is hoping to utilise the Young Leaders scheme to improve and benefit his local community.

“The TSB Young Leaders programme gives me the opportunity to learn a lot - and learn from young people, my peers and from people above me.

“The specific thing I'm looking to do is improve my ability on social media and to network, helping get my message out into the local community. I think there's a big opportunity for me to improve my weaknesses in that programme.

“We all have unity, a shared vision and use our individual skills to try and move forward. We're building as a club and with the help of TSB and Sported, I can only see it getting better."

Two-time taekwondo Olympic medallist Muhammad is an ambassador for the scheme, and knows the power of sport in transforming lives.

“Sport has played an integral role in my life,” he said. “I always feel like sport has been a great equaliser.

“I will tell the Young Leaders just to enjoy the journey.

“I think that’s the best piece of advice I ever received. Working in sport is very rewarding. So I would say try your best to enjoy the journey and know that it is all worth it in the end.

“Coaches and club leaders play an invaluable role in growth of sport, especially grassroots sport.

“I think at a young age, if it wasn’t for a coach believing in me and telling me that I can go all the way, I know for a fact I wouldn’t be here with two Olympic medals.

“I am very fortunate to be at the top of my sport and it all started because I had someone believe in me.”
 

TSB, in partnership with Sport for Development charity Sported, is proud to help local community groups across the UK use the power of sport to make a positive difference to young people and the communities they are part of. #TSBLocalPride