EFL Week Of Action 2023: Josh Barrett proudly named as first staff ambassador

 

Josh's journey with the Tigers Trust began in 2012 when he discovered the organisation while participating in an educational programme that introduced him to coaching, including earning an FA Level 1 certification. At the time, he was a 17-year-old with a strong desire to be involved in the sports sector, and it was a friend's convincing persuasion that led him to sign up. 

 

From 2014 to 2016, Josh served as an apprentice, and after successfully completing his apprenticeship, he remained a valued member of Tigers Trust staff, contributing his skills to various roles within the Trust. His responsibilities ranged from the Premier League Kicks Inclusive sessions to Premier League Kicks and Premier League Primary Stars programmes. 

 

In 2018, Josh secured full-time employment with the Tigers Trust as an NCS officer, where his primary role was to recruit young people aged 15-17 in schools, offering them a residential experience to enhance their CV's and prepare them for adulthood. 

 

In late 2022, he transitioned to a new role as the Active Through Football lead in partnership with Hull Culture and Leisure. Together, they are dedicated to increasing activity levels among those aged 16-19, especially within the BAME community in the Hull area, with a special focus on the HU3, HU6, and HU9 neighborhoods. 

 

In his current role as the lead for Active Through Football at the Tigers Trust, Josh works collaboratively across all projects. Throughout the year, he supports the Premier League Kicks Project, from organising evening football sessions in the community to inclusive sessions for those with additional needs. Additionally, he contributes to the daily operations of the Tigers Trust Arena, which includes maintenance and cleaning tasks. 

 

On Hull City matchdays, Josh takes on the important role of working with the mascots, guiding them on an MKM Stadium tour, arranging photo opportunities with the players, and leading them in activities on the pitch before they make their grand entrance for kick-off. He has also provided valuable assistance to the primary stars and secondary school's partnerships in their programme deliveries. 

 

When asked about why he finds his work at the Tigers Trust so fulfilling, Josh shared, "Working for the Tigers Trust fills me with both pride and accomplishment. Seeing the impact you can make in people's lives, whether big or small, is a tremendous sense of achievement. Every day brings something new, and the work environment is truly one-of-a-kind." 

 

He also acknowledges the personal growth and development he has experienced through his tenure with the Trust, saying, "Before I started at the Trust, I wasn't quite sure what I wanted to achieve in life. I left school with little to show for myself and struggled to find a job due to lack of experience. Since joining the Trust, it has not only helped me discover my career path but has also shaped the person I am today. The support and opportunities are boundless, and they are always there to assist you, whether it's acquiring new qualifications or receiving guidance for your future." 

 

Reflecting on his favourite moments at the Tigers Trust, Josh highlighted the recent staff away day, saying, "While there have been many amazing moments, the most memorable for me has to be our recent staff away day. It was an incredible day for everyone involved, offering an opportunity for the staff to come together, have fun, and engage in team-building activities. This was something we hadn't experienced at the Trust before, and in just a few years, you can see the immense enjoyment and benefits it brings to everyone, allowing us to unwind and connect." 

 

Upon the announcement of Josh becoming the first Tigers Trust staff ambassador, he admitted, "When I was first asked, it was a massive shock. I thought it was a joke. However, it's a great honour to be chosen as the first ambassador for such a significant organisation, and it fills me with joy and immense pride. There are many others in similar positions or equally deserving, so this recognition is even more special." 

 

Thank you Josh, for everything you have contibubed to the Tigers Trust so far.