Spotlight on Sports at KCL: Athletes, Volunteers, and Community Impact

By Sports Editors Joel Lim and Amaya Sharma

When was the last time you immersed yourself in sports? Perhaps it was a casual kick-about with friends, a relaxing morning jog with a fitness club, or an invigorating workout class squeezed between lectures. These simple experiences go beyond physical activity; they forge memories and foster connections.

Sport has a profound impact on community life. From grassroots events in local neighborhoods to legions of fans rallying behind their teams, the essence of sport lies in its ability to unite and empower. This communal aspect is why numerous individuals and organizations harness the power of sport to instigate positive change.

High-Profile Examples of Change Through Sport

High-profile athletes often leverage their platforms for social good. Take Marcus Rashford, for instance. The footballer became a beacon of hope during the pandemic, addressing child food poverty and raising over £20 million in donations. His efforts compelled the government to extend free school meal vouchers into the summer of 2020, highlighting how sports figures can inspire social change.

However, the drive for community improvement through sports isn’t limited to professionals. Research from Leeds Metropolitan University highlighted a Community Sports Project in Rochdale, demonstrating that local sports initiatives can strengthen social networks and bridge divides between previously conflicting groups.

KCL Clubs: Building Community Through Sport

You can see this sense of community in action at King’s College London (KCL), where several sports clubs prioritize initiatives that extend beyond mere competition.

Campaigning for Inclusivity: KCL Tennis

KCL Tennis has taken commendable strides to make the sport accessible to a broader audience. Their ‘Inclusive by Design’ series, which recently won KCLSU’s Event of the Year, epitomizes this ethos by breaking down barriers that often deter newcomers.

“We saw a problem—tennis still had too many barriers to entry. Our mission became to create a club that is inclusive by design so students can discover tennis and find a second family within it.” – Adrien Szakolczai, Vice President of KCL Tennis

During Disability History Month, in collaboration with the Queen’s Club Foundation, the club hosted workshops to educate students on adapted formats of tennis. These sessions not only improve mobility but also raise awareness about the benefits of sports in enhancing living standards for disabled individuals.

Inclusivity is also at the core of their LGBTQ+ Tennis Festival, further showing KCL Tennis’s commitment to a truly open and inviting environment. Individual members exemplify this commitment; Szakolczai volunteered as a sparring partner ahead of the 2024 Paris Paralympic Games, gaining insights into supporting athletes with disabilities.

Charity Match for UK for UNHCR: KCL Football

KCL Men’s Football is another club harnessing the power of community. Inspired by the humanitarian mission of UK for UNHCR, the club arranged its first charity match against Queen Mary Football, raising over £4,000 for displaced persons.

“Football is often more than a game; it’s a force for unity that brings people from varying backgrounds together.” – Conrad Stott Smith, President of KCL Men’s Football

This event showcased the collective efforts of student organizers, players, and fans who channeled their passion into meaningful support.

Community Fundraising: KCL Netball

KCL Netball ended their season on a high note with a ‘Mini Macadam’ event in conjunction with GKT Netball, donating all ticket proceeds to Grassroots Suicide Prevention. Members of the club also dedicated their time and effort to raise funds for organizations like the OddBalls Foundation and Teenage Cancer Trust, not just through events but also by participating in London’s half marathons.

Getting Involved in Community Sports Initiatives

Feeling inspired? The good news is that joining the community isn’t as challenging as it may seem. If you’re passionate about sports or looking to make a difference, several entry points await you.

Partnering with a sports charity or local community project allows you to contribute your skills, whether it’s organizing logistics or fundraising. KCL clubs are constantly seeking volunteers and participation for a variety of community-oriented activities.

Reflect on your recent sporting memories—the joy, camaraderie, and focus that uplift you. Now, imagine merging those experiences with causes you believe in or communities you want to support. The victories aren’t always encapsulated in scoreboards; often, they are rooted in the communities you help nurture.