Over 500 volunteer applications were received by British Athletics’ ahead of the 2022 indoor season, reinforcing the community’s commitment to the sport after a period of uncertainty.

Of those who applied to volunteer at the Müller Indoor Grand Prix (19 February) and UK Athletics Indoor Championships (26/27 February), a third had volunteered with British Athletics previously, a quarter were involved in the sport at the time of their application, while three-quarters were not involved in athletics in any capacity. Over 60% of applicants were volunteering with British Athletics for the first time.

In addition to 135 volunteers appointed to support British Athletics’ core indoor fixtures, 18 volunteers were allocated to work at the BoXX United Manchester World Indoor Tour meeting (Silver) on 22 January and 32 volunteers for the DNA meeting in Glasgow on 5 February.

At the event in Manchester, Manchester Active provided the volunteer t-shirts and The Diane Modahl Sports Foundation (DMSF) provided young volunteers. For DNA, Glasgow Life assisted in the recruitment of all the adult volunteers, and the kit carriers were provided by Shettleston Harriers. Thank you to all the stakeholders for their support for these two events.

Becky Straw, Competition and Events Senior Coordinator, British Athletics, said: “The response from volunteer applicants has been incredible and is really positive news for the sport after a significant period without fixtures, or at least not the traditionally busy calendar of events that we’re used to.

“Volunteers are at the heart of our sport and without them, athletics would not be able to function as it does today. Their enthusiasm is infectious, and from reading their applications there is no doubt that they’re excited to be back.

“We are committed to supporting the development of volunteering within athletics, both in terms of volunteers, and also as providers of volunteering opportunities. The interest from those who have not previously been involved with British Athletics is encouraging and means that we can offer people new experiences and opportunities – while still working with the loyal volunteers who have been involved with us over many years – to ultimately grow our amazing community.”