What was life like before 2nd Chance Project?

Well not to sound too dramatic but in a way it was lacking so much. I was basically a statistic like so many others, unemployed and on the 'dole'. I had a few one off jobs here and there, but nothing that was ever going to be something that I would consider doing for years to come. Very few people/companies offer opportunities to people without the required qualifications and experience and it really does get you down.

What was life like with 2nd Chance Project?
It was fantastic, never been involved with a group of people that are so welcoming and friendly even on my very first day. It was at times informal, which is no way a bad thing. It just felt that way because everyone really did get along with each other and actually enjoyed going to work.

The coaching side of it is so rewarding and has helped me in so many ways but mainly it has given me so much confidence. I've always been quite a shy person and always felt uncomfortable talking to groups of people so being thrown into a coaching environment has helped me immensely because to succeed you have no choice but to be confident.

I'll always appreciate the opportunity that I was given, not only has it given me numerous qualifications but it has also given me a job that I actually love doing and not a lot of people can say that.

What are your plans for the future and how did 2nd Chance Project help?
I intend to carry on coaching because it's what I love doing now. Thanks to the various qualifications and experience I've gained over the last six months I've been given another opportunity to carry on working in schools.
I also intend to go after more qualifications to develop myself as a coach because when you've worked with so many experienced coaches you aspire to be half as good as they are.

What would you say to other young people who were thinking about getting involved in the 2nd Chance Project?
If it's something that interests you even in the smallest way just go for it because you will not regret it one bit. If you're as lucky as I am you'll find your life is ten times better than it was before. You'll meet and coach with some amazing people and you will get a great feeling of satisfaction. It can open up so many doors and can genuinely change your life for the better. Basically, just do it!

David Welfare

2nd Chance Project Sports Apprentice, Cornwall