Colin Hirons | Fit For the Future winner 2022

We speak with Colin Hirons (Minehead BC, Somerset) after he scoops the Fit for the Future award at our second annual Awards!

In the new award category for 2022, this accolade celebrates an incredible marketing initiative at club or county level, which has led to a growth in participation or has increased exposure for our sport.

Minehead BC has run for many years but has never had a youth section. Colin has worked, initially with the social committee and the executive to introduce a Youth Academy for the club.

Colin started the process nine months ago and now have three schools visit as part of the project. Young people now attend sessions at least twice a week.

The midweek sessions have resulted in the introduction of a Youth Academy being launched, with club coaches also taking part.

Colin’s efforts have helped see over 35 children enjoy playing bowls at the club. The children have found the sessions engaging and have been growing in confidence each session. Colin’s sessions cater for children of all abilities and he has helped children with educational needs.

Minehead BC have also now had new adult members as a result of this, with parents and grandparents joining as members which has increased their membership by 10%.

The introduction of the Youth Academy has transformed the outlook of Minehead BC, with local businesses now involved with sponsorship deals.