ALISON Insley, based in Kenilworth, has been named Volunteer of the Year by England Squash as she continues to create unforgettable spectator experiences.
A dedicated volunteer, Insley has spent more than a decade volunteering at major squash events across the country including the Birmingham 2022 Commonwealth Games.
Insley often takes annual leave from her day job as a cycle instructor to showcase squash and now mentors other volunteers to ensure each event is a huge success.
Insley said: “You become part of people’s journeys and seeing the smiles on the spectators’ faces is just fantastic.
“I want others to experience that joy; it’s why I love training and managing a group of volunteers at each event.”
Having met her husband and many of her friends through squash, the social buzz that surrounds the sport motivates Insley to volunteer time and time again.
Insley added: “I love volunteering because I get the chance to meet so many people from across the world.
“I can walk past any of the world’s top 20 squash players and they’ll stop me to say hello and ask how I’m doing. The referees will thank me for doing a good job. They all really appreciate what I do.
“You can’t beat the feeling of being part of a team that helps deliver something special.”
This recognition is a testament to Insley’s unwavering commitment to the sport over the last decade who has created numerous memories along the way.
She provides incredible experiences for spectators, players and her team of volunteers whilst also watching the sport she loves from the best seat in the house.
She said: “It feels great to be recognised for my hard work with this award. It’s a privilege to be able to volunteer and be courtside at these incredible events.
“Through volunteering, I had the chance to play on a squash court in Grand Central station with Mexico’s top female player once the day’s matches were over.
“Some people might choose to go on a hot air balloon, or bungee jumping. But being at the heart of a squash event is an experience I’ll always treasure.”
