Out of Office

Out of Office; Professionals from across the region tell us what they really get up to when the out of office e-mail pops up.

David Colgrave is chief executive of Leeds-based recruitment consultancy Ardent Selection, the new name for ECHM.

1. What is your favourite pastime when you are out of the office?

For “relaxation” purposes on a weekend I coach a junior rugby side at Wharfedale RUFC.  Wharfedale are a rural club based in Grassington in North Yorkshire.  Our 1st XV play in National League 2 and are in the top 35 teams in the country, a phenomenal achievement for a club with limited resources but bags of passion. The junior academy is vitally important in supplying home-grown talent and we regularly have over 200 players of various ages attending our Sunday training sessions,

2. How did you get involved?

As a player I thoroughly enjoyed the game and camaraderie and took my son to Wharfedale when he was seven.  Back then we were a bit light on coaches and I helped out (I think I still harboured hopes of resurrecting my playing career and looked impressive against the under 7’s!!) but soon got “volunteered” as head coach. We now have four coaches who have been with our age group for five years now.

3. What has been your biggest challenge?

Dealing with defeat. It happens, occasionally!!  I can be a bit of a grump when we don’t play well and it is really important not to be overly critical of the lads who are all trying their best. I am learning to “accentuate the positive” and my fellow coaches make sure I don’t get too serious.

4. Describe a memorable moment?

We took the team on tour for the first time this Easter. It was a bit daunting at first taking twenty 12-year-olds  to Northumberland for three days but we had a fantastic time.  The weather was dry, they played really well, behaved themselves, mostly, and never stopped smiling. Anytime we beat Ilkley or Harrogate is also cause for celebration!!

5. How could other people get involved?
 
Coaching the next generation is an awesome way to give something back to a sport you might have played and loved. Whether it is rugby, cricket, football, hockey, netball; whatever your sport, your local club side will always be grateful for help and you can gain personal development through coaching qualifications. Just go along and ask!!