Thomas Atkinson.

Candidate for VP Societies & Sport

Hi! I am Thomas Atkinson, and I will be running for the role of VP Societies and Sport.

I’m in my final year of Biochemistry and have seen and participated in the running of sports and societies. As the current Men’s Captain for the Lacrosse team, I appreciate how integral both societies and sports are for students on campus.

If elected, my aims for 2023/24 are:

1. Facility allocation:

Having discussed with committee members from other universities our training times do not come close to what we should expect to have. For teams to be successful the facility availability, whether that be at any of the three sites around campus, needs to be maximised between all the clubs. By using a large availability planner, teams can get pitches when the entire squad is available. Rooms on campus will also be made available more frequently for societies to make use of them as well so they can fulfil their society members’ needs. This can be done by speaking with the university to ensure rooms are readily available to those who would like to use them.

2. Facilities:

Those who have used the gym, changing rooms or played games on the 3G or Eastfield will know that a revamp is needed. I aim to work with Sport to get you the facilities you deserve!

The changes I propose:

• The 3G needs to have the lines repainted to ensure games can be played to the highest standard.
• Eastfield will also see the introduction of lighting so that teams can train there in the evening as well.
• The changing rooms and gym need a deep clean and paint job.

3. Event proposal response time:

With university years flying by students do not want to be waiting ages for event proposals. Events allow for participation and involvement to grow as societies can showcase what goes on within their societies. By working closely with the student opportunities team, I will ensure these forms are completed as soon as possible.

4. Committee Café

Now the return of a previous favourite. This will provide an opportunity for committee members to spend time with other club/society members in a relaxed environment to create a community feel. Members can begin to organise events to help their clubs grow.

Thank you for reading my manifesto! I would really appreciate your vote to help improve the student experience here at Royal Holloway.