Three and a half years ago, Devalle Webley joined Disability Sports Coach as a volunteer at Club Kensington & Chelsea.
At the time, he was still building his confidence and learning what it meant to be a coach. What followed was a journey of learning, experience and support that has helped him develop into a qualified Level 2 coach now delivering multiple inclusive sport sessions each week.
When Devalle first started volunteering, he was looking for an opportunity to gain experience and grow his confidence. Through Club Kensington & Chelsea and wider opportunities with DSC, he learned from experienced coaches, worked with participants with a range of abilities and developed the practical skills needed to progress in inclusive sport.
As part of his development, Devalle completed our Inclusive Activity Leaders programme, funded by Nike, alongside safeguarding and first aid training. These opportunities helped him build the knowledge, confidence and coaching skills that supported his progression from volunteer to coach.
Reflecting on his journey, Devalle said:
“When I began volunteering in 2023, I was still developing my confidence and learning what it meant to be a coach.
Volunteering gave me the opportunity to gain valuable experience, learn from other coaches and, most importantly, work with and support a fantastic group of participants.
What started as volunteering has helped me grow into the coach I am today, and I am proud of the progress I have made now being a Level 2 coach.”
Today, Devalle is moving on from his regular volunteering role at Club Kensington & Chelsea to focus on his growing coaching career. He is already delivering multiple regular sessions alongside additional coaching opportunities, continuing to build on the foundations created during his time with DSC.
As someone who is neurodivergent and has a mild learning disability, Devalle also brings valuable lived experience to his coaching. He believes this helps him create welcoming, supportive environments where everyone feels comfortable taking part and developing at their own pace.
For Debbie Parker, who has supported Devalle throughout much of his journey, his success reflects years of hard work and dedication.
“I have had the privilege to see Devalle’s journey from his early days at the Poplar Holiday Schemes develop and shine as a volunteer and ultimately develop into a very good coach, which is a testament to his dedication and passion for coaching.”
Devalle’s story highlights the importance of creating genuine pathways into sport. With the right support, training and opportunities, volunteers can develop the skills and confidence needed to achieve their ambitions and make a difference in their communities.
We’re incredibly grateful to Nike for supporting the Inclusive Activity Leaders programme, which continues to help aspiring coaches gain the experience, training and confidence needed to take their next steps. Devalle’s journey is a brilliant example of what’s possible with such dedicated long-term support from our partners.
We’re proud of everything he has achieved and excited to see where his coaching journey takes him next.
Good luck, Devalle. We’ll be cheering you on every step of the way.
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