Name: Stephanie Heck
Course: Sport and Exercise Science
School & Dept: SSEHS
Current Year: Graduated in 2023
Stephanie Heck
Vice Chair of Loughborough Students Women’s Football Club and Football Coordinator Social Sport
Stephanie is the Football Coordinator for Social Sport this year. She makes sure to interact with all players across the 11 leagues, so they all feel a sense of belonging at the sessions. This year she has also kick-started the first Female Only League within Social Sport to make sure that female footballers on campus have a place to feel safe when playing and enjoying the sport.
Tell us a little bit about yourself (hobbies, interests and background):
I was born and raised in Enfield, Connecticut, USA where I played a variety of sports with football always being my main sport. In my free time I referee men’s and women’s football within my local County FA. Outside of football I enjoy spending time with my family, whether that is going out for coffee or going on walks.
How did you first get involved in volunteering within sport at Loughborough?
During my second year playing for LSWFC I had a conversation with the Vice Chair who asked me if I was interested in becoming Vice Chair for the upcoming season. Although I was hesitant, I thought maybe I could make a difference, this role really allowed me to push myself out of my comfort zone and start to think of the Youth Leader I wanted to become.
During your years at Loughborough what have you got involved in through volunteering within sport?
I have supported on several England Football (Your Game) Events across the country, these events demonstrate the vast array of football opportunities within their local community and understand qualities and characteristics to becoming an effective leader. Additionally, I have sat on the Regional Youth Network at The FA where I have worked alongside The FA National Youth Council to support their aim of ensuring all young people have meaningful and inclusive opportunities to develop themselves and positively influence the football community.
What has your experience volunteering been like whilst at Loughborough?
My experience has allowed me to meet numerous inspiring people who are continuing to leave their own legacies within their respected sports. I have been able to meet people from around the world who all have the same passion for giving back to the sport they love.
How has being involved with Loughborough Sport helped you develop and progress (personally and professionally)?
Loughborough Sport have allowed me to push myself out of my comfort zone to understand how I can best develop inclusive programmes to those at Loughborough University. They gave me the confidence that I could make a difference to those around me and supported me on my idea to create the first ever Women’s Football Social Sport League. Throughout my roles I have gained invaluable experiences that can be directly transferred into my professional goal of becoming a Football Development Officer.
What’s the best advice you could give to a Loughborough student looking to get involved in volunteering & gain the most out of their university experiences?
Get to know as many people as you can at Loughborough Sport and learn about their journeys as I’m sure across your professional careers your paths will cross again. Always be resilient and continue taking risks to push yourself out of your comfort zone, no idea is a silly idea so never be afraid to share it. Remember to be patient and to remain focused, legacies were not built overnight.
Finally, what do you enjoy most about volunteering?
I enjoy meeting other like-minded people who want to give back to those within their communities and create a legacy within sport. I am regularly inspired by understanding people’s experiences and learning about their ‘why’ behind all the work they do.
Feeling inspired?
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