The Teamsheet

Edition Three - Let’s Talk About Sport

EDITORS WORDS

Hello and welcome to the latest edition of The Teamsheet!

Since our last edition we have seen so much sport and with that comes a lot of success for our islanders!

Jersey Bulls and Jersey Rugby Club are on fire! Jersey Hockey saw both their men’s and women’s sides progress in the cup on home turf, with the women’s side unfortunately bowing out in England against a good Guildford side. The men are back at home in January! The islands Gaelic Football sides went away and were superb in the European Championships. And so much more!

In this edition we speak to the first local woman to cross the finish line of the Jersey Marathon back in October, Natalie Hodge. Natalie spoke with so much passion for the sport she loves, and her stories and experiences will be a great read for you all. A big thanks to Natalie for chatting with Dan with such openness and at times, courage.

Elsewhere we caught up with two legends of their respective sports in Libby Barnett and Sal Minty Gravett MBE, as well as finding out all about Sports Bug’s journey through Danny Cutland, and Kane Livesey’s coaching achievements and ambitions. Ally Merideth also chats with us about his upcoming challenge!

We also welcome new writer Dani Devenney who speaks to Charlie Browne about his football history, and how he is enjoying celebrating success with Island Trophies.

Sit back and enjoy the read!

Daniel Andrade

DANI DEVENNEY

NATALIE HODGE

DANIEL ANDRADE

Meet the Man Behind Island Trophies

Charlie Browne, Owner and Founder

WORDS: Dani Devenny

If you’ve been involved in sport in Jersey over the last 30 years (and have been good enough to win a trophy, shield, or medal!), you’ve probably had contact with Island Trophies, owned and founded by Charlie Browne. Established in 1994, Island Trophies’ vision is to continue promoting enthusiasm for sports and community engagement throughout Jersey.

With decades of experience in local sports, Island Trophies truly knows the game - Charlie understands the financial challenges many clubs and associations face, and his commitment to supporting the sporting community makes a real difference, ensuring everyone has access to the recognition they deserve and keep the spirit of local sports thriving. What began as a simple pastime blossomed into a true passion for founder Charlie Browne. His enthusiasm for sport not only uplifts others, but it is infectious. Island Trophies plays a vital role by collaborating with schools, club administrators, and festival organisers to create unforgettable events, all while offering generous discounts without compromising on quality. It’s a winning formula that fuels enthusiasm across different sports.

Charlie has been a familiar face in Jersey sport since he moved to the island in 1977. He started as a footballer, playing for Sylvans and then moved to refereeing, which he’s only retired from within the last 10 years. He’s been involved in the men’s game across various clubs, supported the development of the women’s game on the island, and incorporated teams of players with disabilities into local tournaments. His CV spans even further, having been involved with several clubs in several roles since calling the island home. We sat down with Charlie to get to know the man behind Island Trophies, his local sporting journey, and his aspirations for the future.

When did you move to Jersey and what brought you over?

My wife and I came on holiday to the island in 1976 and decided to move over in 1977. We both joined sports clubs straight away – me playing football with Sylvans, and Marie joined a hockey club. Being so new to the island, it was a great way to meet people, and we quickly made lots of friends which helped us to settle here.

How did your sporting journey develop?

I played reserves football mostly, as a centre-back. I started with Sylvans, but I’d completed my referee badges back in the UK and the league was looking for referees, so I put myself forward. I took up refereeing and enjoyed it – I found that I got the best out of players by showing them respect and treating them how I’d want to be treated. Back in those days, sometimes the referee was seen as a ‘strict headmaster’, but I tried to be on the same wavelength as the players. I am delighted to say that I won referee of the year seven times – this was a record at the time but has recently been broken!

Off the field, I was the referees’ registered secretary, assistant secretary of league, secretary of the league, then I worked with the Jersey Football Association as a delegate on behalf of the league, eventually becoming President of the league. In terms of clubs, I was secretary of Jersey Scottish, then Sporting Academics, then St Paul’s, finishing my club career as chairman of St. Paul’s. Having all those different perspectives –from playing, to refereeing, being involved with both clubs and the JFA – came in very helpful when facing challenges, as I could look at a situation from multiple angles. 3

Island trophies was founded in 1994. How did the business idea come about?

I worked in a jeweller’s shop, and I got to know the person that did engravings. They showed me what to do and I gained experience from there. It meant that I could do little bits for people throughout my football involvement because engravings were expensive, which meant it could be hard financially on the clubs. I offered to help because I think that sporting achievements should be appreciated and remembered, and now Island Trophies has a deep commitment to preserving the legacy of local sports.

Are there any memorable moments from your 30 years of Island Trophies that are particularly special?

I have been entrusted to engrave Battle of Flowers trophies, the big one being Prix D’Honneur. There’s so much history with those trophies that I was quite nervous to work on them at first!

What’s the oddest trophy you’ve

been commissioned for?

The most unique one is probably recently – I did a retirement gift for a police dog handler and worked with a UK supplier to source the statue. I’d never seen anything like that, and it was a lovely gift. I’ve also done a few golf trophies for lads’ golf holidays – but I can’t repeat what the awards were for here, though they were very funny!

What is the day to day of the business like now?

Our in-house engraving and streamlined order process ensure quick delivery – we focus on personalising awards and trophies for events like sports competitions, corporate recognition, and special occasions. I maintain great working relationships with my customers and I’m aware that club committees are cost conscious, so customer service and competitive pricing are key factors. My main customers are the football fraternity, probably down to being close to them, having been so heavily involved throughout the years.

What does the future of Island Trophies look like?

We currently have a small space at Rue Des Pres, but we’re moving into bigger premises which would mean we’re more accessible. We want a place where we can welcome people and show more stock. Ideally, we’ll also develop the website, sharing news from around the island and showcasing stories.

For a small island, Jersey is amazing for sporting talent. However lots of the competitions are held off island, and this can be a barrier to development. If Island Trophies ever got to the stage where we could help to assist people’s sporting journeys, that’s the type of philanthropy I would be very interested in. There’s a bigger picture to sport, it’s more than winning just trophies – it’s good for socialising, important for wellbeing, and provides a healthy lifestyle, and I think that’s so important.

Finally - if you were to win an award, what would it be for?

Recently, I had a role as an extra on the upcoming series of BergeracI thoroughly enjoyed the experience but I can assure you supporting actor is an award I will not be receiving!

Island Trophies can be found on Instagram @islandtrophies, X @IslandTrophies, and Charlie is contactable at charliebrowne@ islandtrophies.co.uk

Charlie would like to offer a 20% discount to followers of Sportscast – please quote Sportscast in your query and he will sort the rest!

U21 MURATTI WAS WON BY JERSEY AFTER A 3-1 WIN AGAINST GUERNSEY LAST MONTH!

LIBBY BARNETT MY FOOTBALL JOURNEY

Libby Barnett is a legend of women’s football in Jersey. Be that as captain to her Jersey Wanderers or Jersey FA teammates, a role model for the next generation of female footballers or a voice for the sport, she has had enormous impact on the game. Barnett called an end to her playing days last May, and Dan sat down with her to reflect on an impressive one club career.

Barnett started by remeniscing about her earliest memories. ‘My very first memories are being dressed in a Chelsea shirt! My first outfit was probably Chelsea as my dad is a huge fan and football is in our blood. I remember coming home from school and playing out in the estate with my dad, brother and friends kicking the ball about until it went dark. We used to love the summer months because we had the extra hours to play football, and in the winter we would go in and sort out our Match Attacks or watch the football on TV. It has always been football.’

‘My mum, dad and brother are the most supportive family you could ever wish for, be that through my playing career, coaching career or professional career, they support me wholeheartedly in whatever I am doing’ Barnett continued. ‘It is so special. I knew if nothing else on a wet Sunday morning there would be three supporters on the sidelines. My dad is a bit more of a critic and he liked to give me some constructive feedback after games, but I liked that. My mum is the one you usually heard shouting from the sidelines even if it was just a goal kick, so she was always loud and proud when I played. They support my brother and I in everything we want to do and that was a huge motivator throughout my long playing career.’

Max Young Photography

On joining Wanderers Libby said ‘When I first joined Jersey Wanderers at the age of six with my best mate Sian we were the only girls. We joined a team where it was mixed, but by default we were the only girls. We played, we trained and as we got older we recruited some more girls and eventually had enough to create our own girls team. That was managed really inspirationally by Katrina Tannahill for six, seven years, maybe even longer! First Tower also formed a girls team around the same time and those girls were always a little bit older than us. Lara Couvert, her sister Nadia, Serena Kersten and Eve Watson played for them. We used to play friendlies every month or so. It became quite repetitive but we enjoyed it. I played school and club football, and went on a couple of trips. We went to play Chelsea one year and got battered 9-0 I think, but we had these sort of amazing female football experiences from such a young age, which at the time we really didn’t appreciate or value. Looking back I feel so proud that I had such a strong female role model in Catrina. For us, back then, it was normal, but actually since her I haven’t seen many female coaches. Even coming into the senior game, Sara Vasse who used to manage St Paul’s, is probably the only female coach since. It was great we saw it as the norm, but what I wish for now is that we see more of these inspiring strong female role models. The way they can empathise with the experiences we have as females playing the game and the challenges that we face is naturally so much easier. With Catrina, I feel privileged to have been coached by her, and I hope she loved coaching us as much as we loved having her.’

Barnett continued ‘We could start playing in the senior open age groups when we hit the age of 16. Sian and I were the ones brave enough to go and start training with the senior team from around the age of 15 so that we were integrated early on. When it was time to play on Sunday mornings it was quite daunting, and that is something we still see today, but when you overcome the initial nerves you find out it is just football with a new set of team mates. I thrived and off the back of my first season I was called up to play for the senior women’s Jersey team by Tony Hoyland where I played my first Muratti and in my first Island games, and it was all a whirlwind.’

‘One of the main reasons I never left Jersey Wanderers was that I was playing with my mates. That fed into the enjoyment factor and was a key reason that I played for so long. 10 years ago Wanderers were definitely not the team to beat, and were the team being beat. That didn’t put me off the team or club at all, because I enjoyed turning up to training and games, and playing with my close friends. It meant a lot to me to be loyal to Wanderers and eventually tables turned as they often do in football. St Paul’s disbanding helped us and we welcomed a lot of their players, and with that cup and league success came. The best thing about football is turning up to training and seeing 10-15 of your mates there, and that went for the coaches as well as we have been supported by great people taking the team, so to work closely with them and to call them my friends has been really enjoyable.’

‘Jersey Wanderers is part of my identity and part of my family. We have lots of people who have been a part of the club for as long as I have. The Nobles and the Mourants for example have been at Wanderers for a very long time. When you look at the amount of time people play at a club, it is usually not by chance. It is a result of the individual liking the environment, the values and the ethos of the club. That is what is a testament to Wanderers, as we are the oldest club in the Channel Islands and we are a family, community club and we love nurturing our talent from a young age at 4-5 where our first footballers come in right up to senior football. There are so many friendly faces around and you feel completely welcome and supported. I personally never saw myself anywhere else.’

‘My first game for Jersey was a home Muratti on the grass pitch at Springfield and I was playing as a striker! I didn’t score despite it being a convincing win for us, something like 8 or 9-0! That probably tells you that I am not a striker, I am a midfielder and like running around, being on the ball providing assists rather than scoring. Regardless of where I was playing, I was very excited and privileged to be on the pitch at such a young age in a big game. In my first Muratti I played with Jodie Botterill and in my last I played with her, which was a nice moment. We had so many quality players who contributed over those 15 years and I loved playing with them all. I was always so proud to wear that Jersey shirt, from my debut all the way to my last game.’

Barnett epxlains ‘My proudest moment wearing the Jersey shirt was the Island Games in 2015. The whole week was a bit of a whirlwind. It was the hottest week of the year. The way that we prepared for the games, the form that we were all in as a squad, as well as being the fittest we have ever been. We were ready. The fact that it was in Jersey in front of our home crowd, with so many coming down to support, it felt it was written in the stars. I loved every minute that I played. I didn’t start the first game which was disappointing for me but I came on and put on a performance which made it hard to not start me from then on in and after that I played every minute. There were loads of players who made it difficult for Simon and Charlie Petulla, who were in charge at the time, because it was such a strong squad and that competition for places was so healthy and helped us.. To win that gold medal in front of friends and family was the best feeling in the world, and it was on my dad’s birthday as well!’

On being captain for a large chunk of her playing days Libby said ‘Naturally I have been quite confident and vocal, and those attributes help you to be a good leader. Being captain is a role I have always loved doing, and it is something I feel very proud about. I remember Chad Morris asking if I would like to captain Jersey a couple of years ago, and that really has been a privilege to do. What has been really nice along the way is whilst one person wears the captains armband you need more than one leader on the pitch or in the squad, and through all of those years we have had so many leaders both at Wanderers and Jersey FA, so it made my role easier having them there.’

‘The last game, losing to Guernsey at home was hugely disappointing. We didn’t compete on the day. It felt like something didn’t gel like it usually does. First half we had possession, but Guernsey found their goal through a corner. I have always said Guernsey set an intensity and kept at that intensity throughout the 90 minutes, we had patches of both high and low intensity and that inconsistency cost us. There were, as a team, so many unforced errors as well. It was a collective defeat and a big disappointment as a squad. We were gutted but hopefully the girls can bounce back and I am sure they will.’

‘What we see every season is some really exciting young players coming through. Sofia Rodrigues, Emily Le Page are two of the recent examples of this. They are talented footballers and what is good is that the style of play is the same all the way through the youth age groups. The quicker we can transition these players into open age football and get the next crop, and our younger players, used to the physicality, as well as forming friendships off the pitch and relationships on it, the better the future will look for the team. Having these younger players coming through, balanced with the group of experienced players will make for a promising future.’

Dan asked Libby who was the best player she has played with. ‘I have played with so many good players. Over the last few years Holly Muirhead has developed into an outstanding footballer. Her ability to read the game, her work rate off the ball, physicality and how clinical she is in front of goal are all great attributes. I have played with Holly for a long time but her form has never been as good as the last few years. Eve Watson is an incredibly talented player. Her technical ability is insane and that 2015 Island Games was her best tournament, and nobody got close to her. Luckily she was on our team and that helped us win the gold medal. Jodie Botterill too, who has natural football ability and played at international level, is a class player. I have loved playing with Lauren Quemard over so many years, Sara Luce as a goalkeeper, and seeing how she has blossomed into Jersey’s number 1. More recently Sam Silva and Sofia Rodrigues at Wanderers. I have named a few but there have been so many more, I can’t name just one!’

Now for the coaches! ‘Katrina

Tannahill is one who not only myself, but a lot of players have a lot to be thankful for. The time, the dedication and effort she put into coaching us all to fuel our love of the game was so important, and that led to many of us playing right up to and into our thirties. Tony Hoyland handed me my first cap, so I will always have huge respect for him. Chad Morris, Ciara Giles and Harry Walker in more recent years have been brilliant, and the amount of hours they work behind the scenes has been unbelievable. That drives the standards up in the island set up. All of my coaches at Wanderers over the years have been great too and you can never underestimate their importance.’

Finally Dan asked how much she will miss playing. ‘I feel ready to be stepping away from the game and I don’t feel sad about it which is the sign that it is the right time. I will miss my friends and effortlessly seeing them three times a week. I will also miss the routine as I have done this for so many years and I will look for a new sport to keep me busy! I will still be involved in the local game through committees at Jersey Wanderers and Jersey FA, as well as coaching the junior girls at Wanderers. Maybe one day in the future I can get involved in coaching at a senior level, be that in the women’s or men’s leagues, but I will enjoy my free time and a break for now. But I will miss my team mates, that is for sure!’

WALKING FOOTBALL IS BOOMING IN

JERSEY

SUPPORTINSPORT

Jersey Sport is a registered charity with a purpose to increase participation in sport and make it accessible, sustainable, and safe for everyone in Jersey. #JerseySport #SupportInSport

NATALIE HODGE

Natalie Hodge is a local runner with many stories. From her love of trails, finishing first female from Jersey in the 2024 Jersey Marathon, her battles with mental health and an upcoming challenge she and her dog Fleur are preparing for in 2025.

All of this, as well as some tips and tricks, in this extended interview.

‘I started running in 2017, but it was more a warmup before going to the gym, so nothing major at the time’ Natalie explains. ‘I then started doing some running with a lady called Norma who worked at my gym and she took me out on the roads, and my interest grew from that point. I remember watching races such as the London Marathon on the TV and thinking at the time, I would like to do that one day. In my head it was a tick box goal, because it looked fulfilling, and I took a big interest in the energy of races. That really pushed me to turn up and try different races.’

Natalie continued, ‘The first race I did was the Jayson Lee 10km and got hooked on the atmosphere and how the whole event made me feel. I still love how the running community is so big. I wouldn’t say there were nerves before that first race as I didn’t think of it as a race, more a fundraiser for Jersey Hospice which is a charity close to my heart. The nerves have come as I’ve got better and have taken it more seriously, and realising I wasn’t too bad a runner, and with that, you put pressure on yourself to achieve what you are aiming for. They do occur, but that is pretty normal, and nerves are a good thing. It is an excessive version of butterflies!’

For me, a race day experience has weeks worth of buildup, but I take such joy from a race whether it is short or long distance. When it comes to it, you race for you. It is you vs you, not you vs everyone else who is running. Some people race competitively to win or place, some people do it to tick a distance or event off, others do it for daily fitness and wanting a goal to aim for. I personally just go out to enjoy it because it’s your race and nobody else’s, and when you cross that finish line that is your achievement, just like everyone else crossing the finishing line no matter the time. When it comes to long distance running the one thing I would say to people is don’t get put off by it. It is a long way, but pain is temporary, and the achievement is for life. The stimulation you feel when you cross that finishing line is great.

‘I think the best bit of advice I have received is ‘don’t listen to your mind which is telling you to stop, listen to your legs and muscles which are keeping you moving’ because your mind could be telling you one thing, but you are still running and grinding to the finish line. Again, as I said before, pain is temporary, and achievement is for life, and it is something you can take to the grave with you. Also, in terms of mental health, if you are sad, go for a run and let all the emotions out on that run. It has helped me, massively.’

‘I love trail running.’ Natalie explained. ‘I like road running to an extent, but I also like my hill work, and I like the hill work because it reminds me of the climbing, which in turn reminds me of the trails. Trail running is something I fell in love with, whether it was early sun rises or chasing the sunsets. It is also very different to road running with the sound of the birds, the smell of nature and the fresh air coming up from the sea. The whole idea is quite therapeutic. It’s away from cars and busy areas, so it is just you and the trails. Sometimes it feels like you are on holiday and not on the island you live in. It becomes as much an enjoyment as an escape, and sometimes you need that serenity. The trails have my heart.’

Ever since getting into running fuelling seems more important than ever before. ‘The learning curve with fuelling has been so big for me. You’re needing to find the right nutrition that works for you. Some can eat before, some can’t but what I would say is get in what you need the night before if you are someone who can’t do breakfast. Fuelling during the event is vital because if you are trying to run a marathon, or an ultra, you need to sustain the energy, and that is before the tank runs out. Water and salts are a must as well, to rehydrate. They all play a big part and are equally as important. I have been seriously running for four years, and I still find I am learning each race about nutrition. Every training block you probably will find you could have changed something. Post race nutrition is just as important as well. You need to refuel, recharge and repair every bit of effort and energy you have given to the race.’

‘I find training, whether you’re a runner, a gymnast, a rower, a swimmer, or a person who goes to the gym, is so important. Just to get out and move your body in a way that stimulates the brain cells in a positive way. Running is the sport that does it for me. It has definitely helped me through a dark patch just before Covid came around, and during that period too. I would run, swim and go to the gym before lockdown and I felt lost without them so running took on a more important role. When I was going through the dark patch, it was all that I had at the time. I am naturally introverted, but at the time you couldn’t go and see your friends or family because of the restrictions. It is another reason I am so in love with the trails, because it helped me through something that probably would have consumed me. The trails were my social, for myself, but with nature. It didn’t solve my problems, and I wasn’t running away from them, but it certainly helped to clear that 1% brain fog that I wouldn’t have been able to clear if I hadn’t gone for the run. I would say it saved me from going a lot deeper than I felt at the time. Mental health is a big topic now and it is a subject which hits close to home for many people no matter how small, or how big, and I find that it is a very lonely place to be in. Everyone has their own journey, their own path with mental health. The running is what made me want to wake up, and it is still what makes me want to be here because I take joy from it and it makes me feel alive again. It also makes me want to heal my depression and get back to a place where I can take joy from the things I used to, again. Running is the place where I feel at peace in solitude.

“Mental health is an every day struggle and it looks different for everyone. I would say to never give up on anything you feel most alive with and a training form has saved a lot of people from dark times in their life. I would encourage and recommend running, or any sort of activity from walking, to the gym, to help.”

‘The Jersey Marathon was always on the books for me to do in 2024.’ Natalie explained. ‘I wasn’t sure if I was going to sign up. I am very weather based as well because I am absolutely hopeless at running against the wind. I did sign up though, probably two weeks before, having done a lot of the training as if I was going to do it. I find that I put a lot of pressure on myself when it comes to road running. I am always running for me, never to chase people and I think that is important. The lead up to this race was quite chilled though, because I was happy with the training I had done. It was a weeks build up of nerves, and it always is because I know race day is coming. Taper week is tough, where training is totally stripped back and you start carb loading to output on the day. The start line is special. So many people, and everyone is excited to get going. Once you start, it can be quick, but you slowly find your rhythm. It always takes me personally 4-6 miles to actual warm up and start moving how I want to. Once in the rhythm, you just run and zone out, but enjoy everyone who has come out to cheer you on. It is amazing to see the community turn out for marathons. The best atmosphere is when you get to Les Quennevais with so many people, even if they don’t know you, cheering you on. They carry you through each mile. The biggest grind is the last 6 miles and that is when you have to dig deep but when you are around the corner from the finishing line you can hear the crowd of people, it is like being at a concert where everyone is going crazy for finishers. It is like a thousand butterflies going from head to toe. The accomplishment of crossing the finishing line is something I couldn’t recommend enough. Don’t be afraid to tackle a marathon, you can do anything you can put your mind to. I was quite chuffed to be first Jersey female, and second female overall. My aim was for a PB and to place top 10. I was manifesting for good weather and the universe had it’s plans for me this year. It is something that I can carry to the grave with me. In 2024 I was the first local to cross my Islands marathon and I think that is a great thing to say. One of my friends, Vicky, came third so that was also a nice moment.’

‘I love it when people talk to me about running. 90% of my personality is running. When people see what you are doing, they become interested in it and see what they can learn from you. I am known for hills. I live on La Pulente Hill, and people give credit to how consistent I am for my hill work, and I often get asked how I enjoy it so much. I love it when people ask, as I get to talk about my passion. I am not qualified as a coach, but if people ask for advice and guidance I answer through my experiences, and all of my learning curves. I take joy from helping others. Learning about other people’s running journey, helps you on yours. I take so much from people like Beth Rainbow’s crazy challenges, and the knowledge bank she has built up, so it is nice that others ask me after seeing my running posts. I am loving helping at See Her Run. I think it is good that the girls are wanting to run and stay active. It hit the spot with me, and to help anyone start a running journey or learn about running, whatever that may be for them, is fulfilling.’

On the next big challenge Natalie explained ‘Me and Fleur, my dog, are back on the trails running again. We took a small break when I was focusing more on the roads to adapt the legs for the transition from trails to the roads. Now we are back, the feeling has been amazing, both being back on the trails and running with my best pal as we keep each other going! I was thinking of 2025 and what I was going to do running-wise and as I was thinking, I came up with an idea of wanting to run and have Fleur with me. I wanted to fund raise for Mental Health through something other than “racing” events, a challenge for myself but also for Fleur. Since I have built her up to 20 miles, I was looking at dog fuel and energy chews on the internet months ago and the idea just came. We are going to run an ultra on the trails here in Jersey and I’ve decided it’ll be a fundraiser for Mind Jersey, in memory of a couple of people I know, family friends, who took their lives this year. Fleur loves the whole aspect of running. She gets so excited when I say to her “we going running” and the tail doesn’t stop wagging and she starts tap dancing around following me until we are ready to go. She sees her collar and bandana, and she knows. The bandana is the signal for ‘‘we are going running’’. We have her fuel now and I have mine. We’ll be running this in either February or March and it’ll start at St.Catherine’s, going all the way to Beauport!’

‘My future plan with my running is to keep up what I am doing. I don’t have many races planned for next year, but me and a friend called Jodie are interested in a race in Mont Blanc in France which is a marathon on the trails, which could be really good fun! I have never, apart from Guernsey, raced long distance away, so doing that more is certainly something I am interested in for 2025. I might aim for some times in road racing too, and race those properly. For now, though, I am going to cruise. I don’t need a goal or a race to enjoy training or running, because I know how it makes me feel. 2024 has been a rollercoaster. A year where there have been more lows than highs, but it has been a really good year in racing, remarkably.’

FUN TIMES AT SPORTS BUG!

When Dan met up with Danny Cutland of Sports Bug he could feel how much Sports Bug, a business Danny once went to as a child, worked for as an employee and now owns, means to him.

We spoke about his role, those who work with him and what the main aims are for Sports Bug, as well as the exciting plans going forward!

What are your first memories of sport?

I was sport mad as a child and my first memories of sport were Sports Bug, but it used to be called Hot Shots, which was created by Tim Le Feuvre. From there it was renamed Sports Bug. Since being a toddler I remember being down at FB Fields and I am sure everyone used to go. I loved all sports. Football is my main sport but I enjoyed doing whatever they put on for us. Tim only did it for kids up to 8 years old so I remember when I had to leave I was really upset!

How did working for Sports Bug first materialise?

When I was 14 I was allowed to work a Saturday job, with the different rules back then, and I already knew Tim through going when I was younger as well as knowing a few people working for him, so I went down and managed to get the job and I have never really looked back. I have always struggled to focus in an environment such as school, so within this work I found I could be my bouncing, active self. My favourite time of the week now is Saturday morning as that is when I do my football coaching, as the rest of the week I am now in an office. So to see the progress of the kids in person is what spurs me on. I have worked my way up and when Andy took it over I worked under him as a manager. I then went and did some travelling around Asia before working in the hospital for a bit as I wanted to try different things but the plan was always to take over the business when Andy sold it.

What is Sports Bug?

Fun. That is the main word I would use. We don’t preach that we will find the next Kylian Mbappe. Our philosophy is that the kids should be able to learn and develop skills whilst having fun. Our main focus, and what I tell everyone who starts working for us, is that the sessions have to be enjoyable first and then the learning, and positive mental health benefits will follow.

How much have you learnt from those who took charge before you?

I am lucky as I have seen two guys do the role before, and I have seen what they both have done really well, but then have developed from seeing their approach, what I would do differently. They were both great bosses. Tim was good as his standards for staff and the level of care for the kids was really high. He was also really good with parents and a chilled coach, and as a result created a lovely environment. Andy was good to learn from because his energy was huge. He loved organised chaos where the kids were having a great time. What I try to do is combine the best of both. The business side of things we have expanded so much. When I took over it had 6-8 hours of coaching a week and now I would estimate we are over 200 hours a week with multi staff, five vans, and the holiday clubs have gone from having a capacity of 60 kids; which weren’t being filled when I took over after Covid; to 80. Then to 100, to 120 and now this summer we have just been granted permission for 150. We are also moving out West at Easter so we will have two facilities, which is exciting. Going back to the question, I have learnt the core essentials from the previous owners, but then I have put my own ideas into it, taken risks and we are seeing some good results for that. I think the biggest risk was hiring full time staff rather than weekend workers, and luckily it has paid off.

How happy are you with your team of staff?

I couldn’t speak highly enough of all of my staff. From the sports coaches that we have such as Max, Josh, Ben and Rai, I can trust them to deliver high quality sessions in their schools and then manage the holiday club to a very high standard to ensure that the kids are having fun and that they are safe. I also brought in child welfare staff, so whereas in the past it has been very sports focused, almost a PE club, now we do a bit of everything. I almost wish it was called activity club because we have some staff who just look after kids, and it isn’t anything to do with sport but it’s a fun and safe environment where kids can relax and enjoy themselves. I am lucky to have my staff, as they look after themselves and are very good at what they do.

Why would you encourage parents to send their kids to Sports Bug?

It is well documented that activity is good for physical and mental wellbeing, as well as good for social skills. We pride ourselves on being very child led. We get over 100 kids to our club and we will speak to the kids in the morning, and see what they want to do. You will get your football mad kids, so they will get the choice to pretty much play football all day. The ones who aren’t so sporty might want to do nerf guns, or obstacle courses, or go for an adventure in the woods, drawing competitions, talent shows and they can get in a line to do those activities. It is very child led, especially after the age of 6. The staff will be there to make sure the kids have fun, that they are safe, have eaten and drank. I would be very confident to say that the level of care at Sports Bug is as high as it possibly can be. It always goes back to fun and we want them to feel the freedom of not being in a school environment, and enjoy their day with us.

What are your future plans for Sports Bug?

We want to expand. We are in a lot of schools out West and get asked iif we will do a holiday club out that side of the island. It is time now. We have put in our application and it has all been accepted. We also have a big after school club opening out West as well. These are the type of things that create more jobs and for the existing workers it creates more manager roles. We want to give our staff the best careers possible and with this expansion we are now hopefully looking to compete with teachers wages. Eventually it would be great to franchise, be that in Guernsey or further afield, as we did look at Dubai and we had an investor who was keen, but it wasn’t right at that time but never say never. That would be my end goal, to expand into the Middle East!

How much do you love this job?

Yeah, it is really good! I love it. The great thing about it is that during the school holidays it’s a completely different job compared to term times, when you are in the schools and have after school clubs. The only time we ever close Bank holidays, it is non-stop. That is what I love and why it is my passion. Working with kids will never get old because they bring the energy. It is the best job in the world. Exciting times ahead, 2025 will be a big year!

https://www.sportsbugjersey.co.uk

RUGBY WORLD CHAMPIONS, THE SPRINGBOKS, WERE IN JERSEY IN NOVEMBER FOR A TRAINING CAMP. WHILST ON ISLAND THEY TRAINED AT STRIVE AND JERSEY RUGBY CLUB, TRAINED WITH THE ISLANDS YOUNG RUBY STARS, PROMOTED THE ISLAND THROUGH SOCIAL MEDIA AND VISIT JERSEY, AND TRAINED IN FRONT OF AND MINGLED WITH ISLANDERS AT AN OPEN TRAINING SESSION.

AMAZING!

ALLY TAKES ON 24 HOUR CHALLENGE

Ally Meredith is a man usually covering sports events through Sport-i but he has started to train for a big sport challenge himself in July. Dan found out more!

Tell us about your upcoming challenge - what exactly is it?

My next challenge is called #247scotland2025 and all profits will go to Rock2RecoveryUK.

This challenge is a very meaningful personal journey that holds a special place in my heart!

Mark your calendars for 4th July 2025 as I kick off this incredible challenge from the legendary Rangers FC at 12:00hrs.

Ibrox holds significant memories for me as it’s where my Grandpa, one of my biggest inspirations, once played before a crowd of over 100,000. Wow.

From Ibrox, my adventure continues northward to the breathtaking Loch Lomond, where I will conquer the challenge of summiting five or more Munros, iconic Scottish mountains reaching over 3000ft.

This journey will test my mental strength, determination, and perseverance, all in honour of my Grandpa and Dad. Losing my Dad to Alzheimer’s over a painstaking 7-year period was heart-wrenching, watching his essence slowly fade away.

After the Munros, I’ll make my way to Stirling Castle, cross the historic Stirling Bridge, and ascend the renowned Wallace Monument, near to where my incredible Dad was born.

Alone with my thoughts in the mountains, I’ll push myself to complete all this within just 24 hours. And with a fantastic support team led by the experienced John Beamson - The CEO adventurer handling logistics and safety, your generous donations are the best way to show your support.

What inspired you to take it on?

Men’s mental health is starting to be talked about more. Unfortunately still not enough as I know there are way too many deaths in my age group.

A lot of this is caused by the pressure to “just be a man” or to “man up” etc. An attitude which still exists to this day.

I have been through my own mental health battles. The most recent being in the lead up to the loss of my dad.

My mental health dip was caused by a seven year decline. It’s so hard to watch your hero slowly drift away.

What charity are you raising funds for?

Rock2RecoveryUK do incredible work. They have saved so many lives through their work. Lives of very brave people who put their physical and mental health on the line everyday. To protect everyone else.

I don’t often speak about my policing but Rock2RecoveryUK have helped people close to me. People who stood shoulder to shoulder with me and witnessed some pretty horrible stuff.

Rock2Recovery UK have new referrals EVERY WEEK! Unreal pressure on them and huge funding needed.

How’s the training going?

I have had a couple of bad days but way more good. It’s been great physically and mentally to get up and out early.

Hiking/running the cliff paths. Sea Swims. Gym work and Sports Therapy with Nat Moore. I have lost over 7 kgs so far as well!

How excited are you to start the challenge?

Can’t wait now! It seems a long way off but July will come round quickly!

KANE KEEN ON BIG FOOTBALL COACHING FUTURE

A lot of youngsters dream of playing professional sport, but Kane Livesey is different. Since a young age his passion and interest was coaching. Dan caught up with the 21 year old about his already impressive experience and his future goals.

Firstly, when did you know you wanted to be a coach?

It all started at a young age, my dad ran a 5-aside team at Les Ormes. He would run sessions every Saturday and we would always finish with a game. He would manage one team and I would manage the other as I always enjoyed managing and coaching players. We would also plan sessions and pick teams the evening before the session and the spark came from that, the planning and organisation.

Also growing up watching professional coaches inspired me to improve my knowledge of the game but it was my dad who got me into football and then into coaching.

What coaching experience did you have prior to university?

Working at the Jersey Football Association every week with their after school sessions and holiday camps allowed me to work with different ages, genders and abilities. This helped me to grow as a coach as well as working with qualified coaches who I could constantly learn from and speak to as mentors.

What’s your time in Chichester been like in terms of developing your coaching skills and experiences?

Moving to The University of Chichester was one of the best decisions I have made, not just with regards to the development of my coaching but also for the friends I have made and the experiences I had there. Each year I grew more and more as a coach learning so much in lessons as well as through practicals, from the two fantastic coaches and tutors that ran the football side of our course and it is something I will always treasure. The knowledge that was shared between the tutors and the cohort played an incredible role in my development as a coach.

During my second year I took on Chichester City Under 12s side which I enjoyed so much, working with two good coaches who taught me more about coaching in England.

In my third year I then stepped up and took on a role with Steyning Town Under 23s as Assistant Manager, forming a three coach set up with two of my best mates who were quality coaches as well. This was an incredible experience and one I learnt so much from, not just about myself and coaching at that level, but also about the senior game, and by learning and bouncing off each other, we all grew as coaches from this.

I also coached a university side in my second year. Taking on a side who where winless in 17 and turning the whole dynamic round and rebuilding the squad leading them to their first win in over two seasons which allowed us to push on. I continued this in my third year with additional coaches, and as a collective, we achieved a league title.

You coached at St George’s Park recently. How good an experience and opportunity was that?

Being a part of the England University coaching staff was an incredible achievement for me personally and reflected how hard I’ve worked not just over the three years at university but the years coaching on island before that. It was an extremely proud moment for me and my family for me to work with some of the best university talent in the UK.

We got to compete in the Challenge Cup where England Uni North squad played the South Squad in the dome at St. George’s Park. It was a fantastic game and some excellent talent was on show. The facilities are unbelievable and I never thought I’d get the chance to coach and manage a side there with incredible pitches and all round facilities, and the general atmosphere of the place is so special. It was an honour to coach there and a fantastic opportunity for me to be a part of such a high level squad of players, coaches, strength & conditioning coaches and analysis team. It is an experience I will never forget.

We also had the chance to go to Wycombe Wanderers for a game against a mixed squad of first team reserves and youth players there. This was also a surreal experience, coaching at a professional ground, being in and around a refined squad from the first game and being in the dug out. Me and one other coach who I’d been working with all season had a moment of surrealism after completing the warm up together on the pitch. That was a fantastic moment for the pair of us after all the hard work we had put in during the season.

What’s

next for you? How exciting is the future?

Next up for me is to continue my work as a football coach with Brighton and Hove Albion, and continue to work hard to constantly develop my game alongside my knowledge, technically and tactically, and keep working my way up through the ranks and push myself to see how far I can really go. I have also started a one on one coaching business called KL121 Coaching in Sussex. I am very excited to see what the future holds for me as a football coach and I will continue to chase the dream I have had since childhood.

TEAM JETS WON TWO FROM TWO IN THEIR FIRST HOME GAMES OF THE SEASON

OPINION PIECE

SAL MINTY GRAVETT: SAVE OUR LIDO

When I was evacuated back here from the Congo in 1960 there were no swimming pools in Jersey. My parents were great swimmers and had already taught me to swim but wanted me to continue to learn, with my brother. In the Summer of my 4th birthday we came down to Havre des Pas and there was a lower deck, shallow end and a bridge, and lots of different things and this is where I had my swimming lessons because there were no indoor pools. That was my first memory of the Lido. Then I remember joining Jersey Swimming Club because the pool was run by the club at that time. Joyce Woodward was my first swimming instructor, who actually shared the same birthday as me, born in the same year as my dad in 1919. As I got older they started introducing competitions down here and they would have different distances, different strokes. The first race that I won, was when I was 10 years old and it was a handicap 110 yards freestyle. They used to have club nights on Mondays and Fridays. If it was low tide we would do swimming and then life saving, if it was high tide we would do swimming to the Dicq and back, or to Green Street and back, or to the Three Sisters and back. I lived for those nights. Nobody had wetsuits, I don’t think we had swimming hats and no goggles either! We just swam because we loved it and I think that set me up brilliantly in my swimming career. My career started down here and I have a huge passion, and love for this place. I spent my school holidays down here. I used to work in the basket room where people left their clothes and I looked after them whilst they swam, to earn pocket money. When I wasn’t working we would all meet on the top terrace and have a great laugh, play in the pool and go for egg and chips at lunch time. That was our life. I don’t remember having bad weather, that is what we did. I think if you speak to the older generation, those who are older than me, they would have done exactly the same because this was the hub, where everybody gathered in the summer to swim safely and we just looked after ourselves through common sense, and it was wonderful. I would love to get that back.

I remember when they renovated Havre des Pas to how it is now, it was beautiful when it first opened but sadly over the last 20 years it has not been maintained properly. That is not down to the tenant, that is down to the government for ignoring it and letting it go into disrepair. It is such a shame because everybody would like it to be restored and loved, and looked after.

David Warr feels very passionately about this place and he is the St Helier South minister. He has come on board to help Marcus Calvani who is the current tenant here. We have formed the Lido Steering Committee and we are trying to encourage the States to hand it over to us, like has happened in Guernsey with La Vallette, where it has been handed over to a charitable trust and it is working fantastically. It is beautiful and they maintain it properly. That is what we want to achieve.

It has been fantastic working with like-minded people on this project. We are all on the same page wanting the same outcome. We are receiving support from the public and that is massive as we need as much of Jersey with us on this as possible. There are so many sports that can take positives out of a looked after Havre des Pas, waterpolo being one example, so hopefully this can be a positive not just for swimmers but for a variety of sports in the future and the public in general.

I am working to qualify as a mental health swim coach so I hope that I can use this as a meeting point where people who are struggling with their mental health can come down, meet people, let them chat and even have a dip in the water if they want. I am hoping that is another string to the bow that we can tie into this beautiful place.