Description

As a volunteer on a Sports project in Jamaica you can help to inspire the next generation of local youth through sports. You do not need any previous experience in coaching to make an impact, although it is great if you already have some. Volunteers are welcome no matter what stage of life they are at - during a gap year from education or a career break, or even as an alternative vacation. All we ask is that you have a passion for sports and a desire to help others to develop their own skills and confidence.

Sports are given a high priority in many Jamaican schools and the country is extremely proud of its sporting achievements, including having the most Olympic success per capita of any country in the world in track and field. Jamaica is known worldwide as the sprint factory of the world and producing the fastest men and women athletes is given high priority. Athletic stars such as Usain Bolt, Asafa Powell, and Shelly-Ann Frazer are household names in Jamaica and around the world. Besides track and field Jamaica has done very well in other sports such as soccer, netball, and table tennis.

The most popular sports taught in schools are soccer, cricket, basketball, track and field, and netball. Soccer is ingrained in the Jamaican culture and boys' soccer competitions get impressive attendance. Cricket - a lasting memento of the colonial days  has over time gained fans and players from all social backgrounds and is now popular across Jamaica regardless of economic status or background. Basketball is a much more recent addition in schools and has become the fastest growing sport on the island in the last ten years.

Highlights

Whichever sports you enjoy, if you have a passion for developing sports in schools you can help to coach children as a volunteer sports coach. We offer our volunteer sport coaches the opportunity to work with local teachers in both primary and secondary schools in and around the inland town of Mandeville.

Soccer, netball, and volleyball are usually played in schools between September and the second week in November. January to June is mainly track and field, basketball, cricket, and some netball.

While volunteering abroad you could dedicate your time to the sport you love or help with a range of lessons. You can also combine your sports placement with teaching English or other subjects. Just let us know where your interests lie once you have applied and we will match you with a suitable school.

Helping to involve children in sports in Jamaica means that the children become fitter and healthier, as well as giving them a sense of belonging to a team with a shared passion and goal. This in turn has positive benefits for the wider society. Many of the youth in the local community are inspired to participate in sports outside of school, which can keep them away from less wholesome activities, and give them structure and purpose.

There may also be the opportunity to help with some specialist sports clubs after school.

Qualifications

none

Languages

• English

Cost in US$:

Please go to our website for prices.

Cost Includes:

• Emergency evacuation services
• Food
• Housing
• In-country orientation/Training
• In-country staff support
• Medical insurance
• Medical services
• Pre-departure orientation/Training
• Written materials abroad
• Written materials pre-departure

Experience Required

no

Volunteer Types

• Athletics
• Sports
• Volunteering

Typical Volunteer

Open-minded with a willingness to travel.

Age Range

16-80

This Program is open to

Worldwide Participants. This Program is also open to Families, Couples and Individuals.

Typical Living Arrangements

• Home-stays

Participants Travel

Independently

Typically Participants Work

Independently or in Groups of 2-5

Application Process Involves

• Letters of Reference
• Online Application plus Application Assessment

Typically The Application Process Time is

10 days

Post Services Include

• Alumni Network
• Exit Debriefing Abroad
• Re-Entry Debriefing at Home

Projects Abroad's Mission Statement

As part of the global economy, Projects Abroad helps create local employment wherever we send volunteers. Employing local staff overseas and using their talents and knowledge is important to us. This local knowledge and support enables the organization to channel the skills of the volunteers from more affluent countries to regions around the world where they are needed. Volunteers also learn from their placements and the people they meet, and they gain experience in a chosen field. In the 21st century, we believe this mutual respect is what cultural exchange is all about.

Year Founded

1992