Donna Marshall, a volunteer with Taffs Well minis and juniors, was nominated for the award by the WRU club operations department.
The 35 year old mother of three became secretary of the club’s junior section after initially getting involved through her children three years ago. Her son firstly joined Taffs Well junior section, but she also saw the club as an opportunity for her daughter who has autism, and she has since organised specialist training for the club’s coaches.
“I know how difficult it is to get my daughter involved in sport because there was nothing around for children with additional needs, so I wanted to try and make rugby available to all children.”
Donna is also starring in the Welsh Rugby Union’s #IAMWALES campaign, which is fronted by Sam Warburton and celebrates people who represent the lifeblood of Welsh rugby.
Donna has reached the final three and is joined on the shortlist by two football volunteers – Trevor Dutton of Prestatyn and Steve Dyer Of Ely Valley FC.
She said on hearing of the news she had made the shortlist: “I’m shocked and honoured, I have no idea who nominated me, but I do this for the community and the children – I love to see them coming off the pitch and looking so excited.”
By organising specialist training for the club coaches, Donna is driving Taffs Well to becoming a beacon of sporting inclusivity. Alongside this she also organises rugby festivals for local primary schools, and uses her fundraising expertise to build partnerships with local businesses, such as Tesco. “I think the key is that I’m casual, encouraging and not bossy,” says Donna. “I’m also a bit cheeky!”
Although Donna’s life is jam-packed with being a full time mum and her volunteering, she wouldn’t change the pace, as the role has benefitted the family too. “I see my son playing, and it’s not just about keeping fit, but the social side too. He’s got so much out of being in a team. Also, I can take my little girl to the club and no one treats her any differently.”
And then there’s the impact on her own wellbeing: “I have multiple sclerosis, so it takes me away from that and gives me another focus, so I get a lot out of it too. My husband thinks I’m married to the club, but I really enjoy it and I don’t find it hard. I’ve always fundraised as I like to give something back.”
The awards evening takes place tonight.
