This year, I had the privilege of engaging in a community service project that helped me truly understand the meaning of a “helper’s high.” Over the course of three weekends and six sessions, I had the opportunity to teach Ultimate Frisbee to a group of students. By incorporating interactive drills, movement-based learning, and team-building activities, I was able to build strong connections with the students while encouraging their physical and social development. What started as a teaching experience evolved into a meaningful exchange of energy, enthusiasm, and growth. I was not only able to support their learning, but also gained a deeper sense of fulfillment and connection in return.
LO1: Identifying Strengths and Areas for Growth
Leading Interactive Sessions: Through this experience, I became more aware of my strengths and weaknesses. One of my key strengths was the ability to connect with the students on a personal level. I made an effort to learn their names, recognize their skill levels, and ensure each one felt included and encouraged. I supported those who were shy or less confident, helping them participate with ease. This allowed me to create a fun, inclusive atmosphere where everyone felt comfortable engaging in the sport. However, I also encountered challenges. Some students would quickly lose focus or become disengaged when activities became repetitive. At times, it was difficult to maintain consistent energy and attention across the entire group. This made me realize the importance of adaptability. I learned to introduce quick games, modify drills, and gently correct misbehavior all while maintaining a positive tone. These experiences helped me grow as a facilitator and taught me the importance of staying creative and flexible in a leadership role.
LO3: Initiating and Planning a CAS Experience
Organizing Sessions and Equipment: Before this project, I often doubted my ability to manage time efficiently or follow through on plans. While I had several creative ideas—such as organizing a mini tournament or designing a themed obstacle course, I wasn’t always able to execute them due to a lack of time management and structure.
Nevertheless, I was able to take initiative in key areas. I secured field space, managed team formations, and prepared equipment like cones and discs ahead of time. I planned age-appropriate activities that blended learning and fun. The fact that I carried out multiple sessions and created engaging lesson plans reflects how this experience helped me become more proactive. I also recognized the importance of improving my organizational skills so I can consistently bring my ideas to life in future experiences.
LO4: Demonstrating Commitment and Perseverance
Sustained Involvement Over Time: Staying committed to a project over a longer period is something I’ve struggled with in the past. While I often start with excitement and focus, I tend to lose momentum midway. This service experience challenged me to change that.
Although my creativity dipped after the first few sessions, I still showed up, stayed engaged, and kept the students involved through meaningful and energetic sessions. I took time to reflect after each session, adjusted my strategies, and built a routine that the students looked forward to. Through this, I learned the value of perseverance and how consistent effort—even when motivation fades—can lead to real impact and personal growth.
LO5: Demonstrate Skills and Benefits of Working Collaboratively
While teaching Ultimate Frisbee, I worked closely with fellow volunteers to plan and conduct sessions. We coordinated responsibilities, shared ideas, and supported each other to keep the activities smooth and engaging. This teamwork helped me strengthen my communication and cooperation skills, showing me how collaboration enhances both the process and the impact of service.
LO6: Engagement with Issues of Global Significance
Access to Sports and Inclusive Physical Education: One of the most pressing global issues is the lack of access to engaging physical education for students in under-resourced schools. Many children do not have regular exposure to structured sports or activities that promote their overall development.
By introducing Ultimate Frisbee, I aimed to address this gap on a small scale. Most of the students had never played the sport before, yet they quickly picked up the rules, collaborated with teammates, and developed communication and coordination skills. I saw firsthand how sports can help young people gain confidence, learn teamwork, and have fun while staying active. This experience reinforced my belief that access to quality education both academic and physical is essential for every child’s holistic growth. Ultimate frisbee specifically is also one that does not require the purchase of many resources so they would be able to play later on
LO7: Recognizing and Considering the Ethics of Actions
Creating a Safe and Inclusive Learning Environment: As a student mentor and coach, I understood the ethical responsibility of ensuring that each child felt safe, respected, and included. I was careful to adapt my approach based on the needs and comfort levels of the students. For instance, I made sure that no child was pressured to participate beyond their willingness, and offered alternative ways to engage when someone felt overwhelmed.
It was also important to maintain fairness during games, encourage positive peer interactions, and prevent exclusion. Being mindful of how I conducted the sessions helped foster an environment of trust and inclusion. This experience deepened my awareness of the ethical responsibilities tied to leadership and helped me become more empathetic, respectful, and intentional in group settings.
Conclusion
Overall, this service experience was incredibly fulfilling. By teaching Ultimate Frisbee, I not only introduced students to a new sport but also helped them build valuable physical, social, and cognitive skills. It was rewarding to see them grow more confident, collaborative, and expressive with every session.
Personally, this experience helped me identify both my strengths—like creativity, empathy, and leadership and areas where I still need growth, such as time management and sustained planning. It reminded me of the importance of showing up, staying committed, and creating inclusive spaces where everyone feels seen and valued.
Most importantly, I walked away with a deeper understanding of how small actions can make a real difference in addressing broader global issues. I’m grateful for this opportunity and look forward to continuing my journey of service with greater purpose and clarity.
