Special Olympics volunteering inspires Moneymore student

Oisin Campbell, from Moneymore, achieved triple Distinction* in Level 3 Extended Sports Diploma at Northern Regional College’s Magherafelt campus, the equivalent of 3 A*s at A Level, and next month he will being studying Sports Psychology at Liverpool John Moores University.

His long-term career goal is to use his skills and knowledge as a sports psychologist to help special needs athletes prepare mentally and physically for their sports.

After completing GCSEs, Oisin opted to do the Level 3 Sports Diploma at Northern Regional College because he enjoyed sport, but admits it wasn’t until after he had actually started the course that he realised how many careers opportunities there are in the world of sport.

Oisin, who plays Gaelic football with Desertmartin GAC, said he really enjoyed his time at the College:

“We covered a wide variety of topics and were introduced to new sports. The practical sessions could sometimes push you out of your comfort zone which was always a good learning experience.”

He continued: “The College teams up with local sporting organisations, giving us the option of volunteering with them. This have me the opportunity to work with some fantastic groups, including Magherafelt Marvels Special Olympics Clubs and Peace Players which promotes diversity through sport.”

Oisin, who won an Inspirational Student of the Year award at the end of his first year at the College, said he really enjoyed the practical ‘hands on’ approach of the Sports Diploma which allowed him to develop his communicaton, organisation, leadership and teamwork skills.

Throughout the COVID-19 lockdown when all sporting activities were on hold, Oisin continued as a volunteer coach with Magherafelt Marvels.

“We kept in touch and posted home videos on Facebook so the athletes could continue their training at home during the lockdown.

“Volunteering with the Special Olypmics has given me greater confidence in my own ability and reinforced the importance of giving clear instructions and listering to others,” Oisin explained.

Congratulating Oisin on securing a university place, Sports lecturer at Northern Regional College Bronagh O’Neill said she was delighted with his success.

“Oisin was a pleasure to have in the class and the accolade ‘Inspirational Student of the Year’ was so well deserved. He was quite shy when he started the course, so it was great to watch him progress and grow in confidence. He really benefited from volunteering with the Magherafelt Marvels but they have also benefited from his expertise and enthusiasm. I wish him every success at university and in his future career,“ she said.

Northern Regional College offers a range of full-time and part-time Sports courses. If you would like to apply or require further information on any of the courses or training opportunities at Northern Regional College, please visit www.nrc.ac.uk.

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