Jersey volunteer rowing coach praised for ‘positive impact’

A woman who leads a course that helps people get into rowing has been praised for volunteering.

Emma Syvret gives up her time most weeks to coach novice rowers as part of the Have A Go Row programme at Jersey Rowing Club.

People are given taster sessions at the club before Ms Syvret trains those who wish to continue with the sport.

Aideen Schweppe started rowing earlier in the year and said “she [Emma] doesn’t realise how much of a positive impact she’s having”.

Ms Schweppe said “I was looking for some water sports to get involved with” and “Emma has been so supportive”.

“So the course was difficult at first for a brand new beginner and [I was] finding it frustrating, but each week you progress as you get feedback from people like Emma.”

The sessions include coaching and time out on the bay in four-person boats.

Ms Syvret has been nominated for the BBC Radio Jersey Make a Difference Awards for her volunteer work.

She said “we just wanted to make it easier for people” and “we’ve now started a learning programme after Have A Go Row so people can learn how to love it and progress by themselves”.

When Ms Syvret heard the news that she had been nominated, she said “I was very surprised” but “I don’t do it for recognition, I do it for my club and I do it to help people try out rowing”.

She added: “People might not know this is available so this recognition is a good way to show people if you want to row – this is here and give us a bell.”