Why Shelby became a Regional Councillor

England Athletics’ nine Regional Councils are inviting applications for a total of 38 roles at next year’s Regional Council elections. The nomination process opened on 23 January, with applicants having the chance to help shape the sport for benefit of their clubs and members, both now and in the future.

Ahead of that process beginning, we have collected thoughts and experiences of existing Regional Councillors, including England Council Chair, Matthew Dalton and Shelby Williams, of the North West Regional Council.

For a sport with so many different branches, complete and comprehensive representation matters - and that was one of the reasons behind Shelby’s decision to apply for a Regional Councillor role four years ago.

She explains:

"I’m predominantly a road and trail runner now, and I became involved with the Regional Council as I felt that - at the time - road running clubs perhaps weren’t represented to the extent that track clubs were, despite it being a thriving part of our sport."

"Realising that I could be involved in this way, and help to represent a wider range of clubs, was an inspiration to become part of the Regional Council structure."

"Having now been on the Council for four years, I’ve learned a lot about the different elements of England Athletics, which helps me to discuss matters in detail with clubs. Sometimes it’s difficult for the smaller clubs to feel that they have a voice, but I can help with that through my role."

Being that conduit between clubs and England Athletics is something Shelby sees as a vital part of her role; roles of future Regional Councillors; and the continued healthy running of the sport.

“It’s so important for England Athletics to hear the ‘customer’s’ voice," she continues. "We can continue doing that by attracting an even broader range of people, from different backgrounds and with different experience, to the various Regional Councils."

"Without us, England Athletics might struggle to get a rounded view of what matters to its members on a regular basis. Councillors can help shape the future, by being the eyes and ears of different communities within the sport."

"When I first joined the Council, I did wonder what I could offer, as I didn’t have a ‘traditional’ athletics background, but I brought difference of thought and years of knowledge and business experience with me.

"This is crucial within the very exciting but challenging time that we’re faced with at the moment. We need to understand the drivers behind the changing participation levels in our sport, both to support the sport as it is now, but to also ensure a talent pipeline for the future."

"There are also broader challenges when considering diversity in sport and how socio-economic factors impact on participation. It is our responsibility to ensure that everyone is safe, welcomed and able to access our sport."

Photo of Shelby Williams receiving her Volunteer Award: Mark Shearman