As we mark Volunteers’ Week, it’s the perfect time to honour the individuals whose generosity, commitment, and quiet dedication form the backbone of our sport. Among them is Kevin Matthews – a true ambassador for volunteering and a vital figure in British handball.
Kevin’s journey into handball began back in 2009 through a family connection, when he first signed up to help with event volunteering. What began as a behind-the-scenes role supporting the delivery of tournaments and managing a team of 20–25 volunteers quickly sparked something deeper. “Handball is infectious,” Kevin reflects. “I caught the bug and have been involved ever since.”
That initial spark grew into a 16-year (and counting) commitment to the sport, during which Kevin has generously volunteered his time, energy, and expertise. Today, he proudly serves as Team Manager for both the GB Men’s U20 and Senior squads – roles that demand organisation, leadership, and tireless dedication. Every hour Kevin contributes is unpaid, offered purely out of passion and a desire to give something back. “Sport has always been a key part of my life, from playing semi-professional football to supporting my daughters in netball,” he explains. “Volunteering in handball just felt like a natural continuation.”
Kevin’s journey has taken him to some of the highest stages of the sport. A particular highlight was his involvement as Team Manager for the GB Men’s Senior team at the London 2012 Olympic Games – a historic moment for British handball and a defining experience in his own volunteer journey. “Those two weeks were a blur – but what an experience. I wouldn’t trade it for anything.”
Yet, for Kevin, volunteering is about much more than elite competition. He’s a passionate believer in building from the ground up, and his heart lies equally in grassroots development. “You can’t build anything without a foundation,” he says. “It’s crucial that we maintain quality coaching programmes to feed into the GB squads.” He recognises the barriers that grassroots handball still faces – from competing with more established sports to keeping young people engaged – but he remains hopeful. “There’s more access now, more alignment between organisations, and better public awareness of what handball can offer.”
Now retired, Kevin devotes much of his time to his six grandchildren – but handball continues to play a central role in his day-to-day life. Whether supporting competitions, offering guidance, or mentoring others in the sport, his volunteer efforts show no signs of slowing down. “It’s incredibly satisfying to give back,” he says. “Volunteers are the bedrock of our sport.”
Looking to the future, Kevin’s ambition is clear: he wants to see more children progressing from schools into clubs and dreams of a world where handball is a staple of every primary school sports programme. “Every country I’ve visited, you see five-year-olds playing handball. If we can get that going here, we’ll take the sport to the next level.”
This Volunteers’ Week, we say a heartfelt thank you to Kevin Matthews – and to every single person who gives their time to make handball possible. As Kevin himself says: “If you’re thinking of getting involved – do it. There’s so much satisfaction in giving back.”
Inspired by Kevin’s story? Want to give back to the sport you love?
Explore volunteer opportunities with England Handball and be part of our growing community by expressing your interest here
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