We are starting a new feature in Community Matters called ‘Spotlight On’, where we introduce colleagues whose work connects both Royal Holloway and the wider community.

Rachel Graham, Head of Active Lifestyle and Sport at Royal Holloway, University of London.

How would you describe your role and your connection with the local community?

In my role of Head of Active Lifestyle and Sport, I am very lucky to work with a team who are passionate about getting people active, whether that be students or local community for the benefit of an individual’s wellbeing.   We are proud of the facilities at Royal Holloway Sports Centre where, the team and I make sure that facilities are available for local community clubs to hire, the fitness gym and classes are open and available to the local community, as well as enabling adult and children’s sports activities including opportunities for local primary schools to come to sports days at Royal Holloway.

How long have you worked at RH?

I have been at RH for 3 ½ years – before that I have always worked in roles developing sport for local communities.

What is one thing you enjoy most about your work?

I enjoy having the opportunity to make a difference in individuals’ life through sport and physical activity.   Being active is a wonderful way of making friends, improving your mental health as well as contributing to physical wellbeing.

A project, event, or initiative (relevant to local community) you are proud to have been part of recently.

This summer we have had the 3G (artificial) pitch renovated, so that it now has a brand-new surface alongside new dugouts ready for the football and rugby season.  It’s a fantastic upgrade to our outside facilities and one that many of the local community will benefit from through local sports clubs.  We have also run a summer fitness reduced rate membership for the local community – which has had a great uptake and we hope to be able to repeat this again next year.

Something people might not know about you (a fun fact, hobby, or interest).

Unsurprisingly, I love to be active, and I am now teaching my Labrador to run with me rather than being pulled along!

If relevant, any upcoming opportunities for the community to get involved with your work?

We are really excited to be offering new community sport sessions at Royal Holloway Sports Centre.  These include football, badminton, table tennis and basketball 

·         Monday – Football (3G Pitch) 4:30-5:30pm (please note no trainers)

·         Tuesday – Badminton (Sports Hall) 5:00-6:00pm 

·         Thursday – Table Tennis (Sports Hall) 1:00-2:00pm 

·         Friday – Basketball (Sports Hall) 4:00-5:00pm 

·         Our recently refurbished fitness gym is open for community to use

For information on memberships and how to book – Community Memberships