National Volunteer Award Profile – Michael Roche

The latest winner of the Bowls Scotland National Volunteer Awards is Michael Roche from Baillieston Bowling Club, who has been recognised for his outstanding long service, encouragement and dedication to the club and wider bowling community.

A well-known and respected figure across Glasgow and Lanarkshire, Michael has been part of Baillieston BC for decades, contributing as a player, coach, committee member, former Club Secretary and now Honorary Secretary. His commitment to supporting others, both on and off the green, has made him a hugely valued member of the club.

Michael’s connection to Baillieston BC began at a young age, with the club playing a major role in his family life. Reflecting on how he first got involved, Michael said: “I was born next to the bowling club and my family was always involved, particularly my mother, so it was natural I would join and found that I really enjoyed all aspects of the game.”

That love for bowls has continued throughout Michael’s life, with his contribution to the sport including both competitive success and dedicated service behind the scenes. On the green, Michael’s proudest memories include winning the LBA Pairs and the Club Championship during Baillieston BC’s centenary year, as well as playing his part in successful club teams that won various trophies.

Off the green, Michael also looks back with pride on his time as Club Secretary, particularly during the club’s centenary celebrations, which culminated in a presentation and dinner at Glasgow City Chambers. He also described becoming Honorary Secretary as a real honour.

For Ryan Hicks, who nominated Michael for the award, his impact has been felt personally for more than 30 years. Ryan first knew Michael as his coach, before later becoming his teammate, and said Michael’s support has remained constant throughout that time.

“I nominated Michael because I’ve known him for over 30 years, first as my coach and then as a teammate. Throughout that time, he has always been supportive in my bowling and is someone who regularly turns up to encourage and support others at their games. His commitment, encouragement and passion for the sport make him an outstanding volunteer and representative for our club. He is a well-known character in the bowling community and a worthy recipient of the award.”

That support for other bowlers has been a central part of Michael’s contribution to Baillieston BC. As a coach, he particularly enjoyed working with junior members and seeing their confidence and ability grow over time.

Michael said: “I really enjoyed coaching our junior members, watching their skill levels improve until they all became very competent bowlers, and also encouraging other members to enjoy their bowls and improve performance.”

Ryan also highlighted the difference Michael has made to Baillieston BC through his willingness to help wherever needed, whether that has been through coaching, supporting players, helping around the club or serving as Club Secretary for many years.

“Michael has been a great servant to Baillieston Bowling Club for as long as I’ve known him. He contributes in countless ways, coaching, supporting players, helping around the club, particularly in his past role as Club Secretary, which he held for many years. His dedication has helped strengthen the club both on and off the green.”

For Michael, that commitment comes from a strong sense of pride in the club and a desire to support those representing Baillieston BC whenever possible. He said: “I feel that as a club member and committee member for many years, I should support and encourage our members representing the club when possible.”

Ryan believes volunteers like Michael are vital to the continued success of clubs across Scotland, describing them as the backbone of the bowls community.

“Volunteers are the backbone of the bowls community. They keep clubs running, support players at every level, and help maintain the traditions and welcoming environment that make bowls so special. Without volunteers giving up their time, energy and experience, clubs simply wouldn’t function in the way they do.”

After decades of service to Baillieston BC, Michael said he was both delighted and surprised to be selected as a National Volunteer Award winner. He also encouraged others to get involved and give their time to their local club.

“I was delighted and surprised when I was selected for this award and would encourage others to volunteer for the good of the club and also their own sense of satisfaction.”

Michael’s story is a brilliant example of the impact one dedicated volunteer can have over many years. Through his coaching, encouragement, committee work and long-standing service, he has helped shape the culture of Baillieston Bowling Club and support generations of bowlers along the way.

Huge congratulations to Michael on behalf of everyone at Bowls Scotland for receiving this thoroughly deserved National Volunteer Award.