Jenna picks up Young Volunteer Award

Orkney Sports Award Young Volunteer of the Year – Jenna Clapham - will go to any length to help fellow swimmers reach their full potential. 

The Awards are organised by the OIC Active Schools Team, sponsored by Stagecoach and recognise the county’s most outstanding athletes, teams and coaches. 

Jenna – one of Orkney’s A squad swimmers – was nominated and awarded the “Young Volunteer” title for her efforts in coaching members of the B squad, helping the lead coach with demonstrations in and out of the water, as well as offering support with her knowledge of the sport. 

She wasn’t able to attend the event earlier this year but picked up the award from sponsor, Orkney 2025’s Kirsty Talbot last week. 

Jenna’s nomination stated: “Jenna is in the pool most days and manages to juggle her schoolwork, drama practise and training effectively. Having competed at North District level for a number of years as well being part of both the Junior Intercounty and Island Games 2023 team, Jenna has a wealth of knowledge and experience to pass on to our younger swimmers. 

“She is a role model to these swimmers who take her feedback seriously and Jenna is there to continue supporting them when required. From a coach perspective, Jenna is an invaluable resource. Some concepts can only be grasped by a demonstration and who better to show them but one of Orkney’s top swimmers. Jenna will also support the lead coach by offering drill suggestions or a different way of explaining something, which is such a help.” 

Jenna volunteers up to two hours every week with the B squad. 

The nomination continued: “After these B sessions, Jenna is straight into her own A squad training session for two hours. Her commitment to the lower squads is admirable, without compromising her own training schedule.” 

Kirsty said: “Jenna is a real inspiration to all volunteers out there. Her ability to share her knowledge and experience is really valuable for the future of the sport and it’s great to know it’s in safe hands with someone like Jenna around.” 

Jenna added: “It was a big surprise to be nominated and to win was just unreal! Swimming is such a big part of my life. I love getting involved any way I can. Having older swimmers giving me feedback over the years has been so beneficial and has helped me a lot so I just want the younger swimmers to experience that too. 

“Volunteering has taught me so much and has created ties between A and B Squad. I love being part of their journey and being able to give something back for all the club has given me.”