Dean (22) is from the Hillhouse area of Hamilton and became involved with MTGP when he attended with some friends on the first night MTGP was in his area. He continued to attend every night that MTGP was there.
He displayed a natural enthusiasm to get involved, not just with his own age group but with the younger attendees, joining in, encouraging them and attempting to pass on coaching tips that he had received from the coaches and becoming a good role model.
Despite his enthusiasm, Dean would not initially divulge any details about himself but later intimated that he was worried about the future. His life was totally lacking direction and he didn’t know what to do with his life.
When MTGP was due to leave the area, Dean stated that he had thoroughly enjoyed his time with MTGP and was disappointed to see the initiative leave. He expressed a fear that without MTGP, he would not manage to stay out of trouble, stating that he ‘felt part of something for the first time’. He now had a new sense of worth and belonging due to the relationships developed with the coaches and attendees.
MTGP recognised that Dean was a natural role model and a good mentor who was well thought of by the attendees and had developed the ability to use humour to interact with others.
Over the next year he volunteered one night a week, gaining valuable experience which culminated in Dean being accepted on a 6 month training course where he gained additional qualifications including first aid. During this time Dean continued to volunteer one night a week with MTGP.
Despite successfully completing the course, Dean was unable to obtain employment. He felt let down, having been informed that he would be signposted onto employment following completion of the course, which did not occur. His girlfriend had become pregnant and he was worried about his ability to gain employment in the leisure/football industry and feared for the future.
Although at this time MTGP did not require another coach, MTGP felt the need to intervene as Dean had worked so hard to get to this point in his life. He was offered part time employment with MTGP for 2 nights per week.
MTGP was able to identify Dean as a suitable prospect for a forthcoming employment opportunity with a partner. Following a successful interview, East Kilbride Community Trust were able to offer Dean a full time role within their K-Park Stadium which is a sport, leisure and recreation facility complete with 400 seater stand.
Dean has flourished in his new role and has become an integral member of staff. The Trust is so impressed with him that they are extending his remit to include the design of courses and an introduction into management.
Dean is thoroughly enjoying his new life and recently became a father to a baby boy. Dean and East Kilbride Community Trust can be seen on a recent MTGP DVD highlighting the progress made by Dean.
Moving The Goalposts 