Introducing the SOA Development Team

The SOA Development Team, consisting of Heidi Ross, Louise Adams and Suzanne Robins-Bird, has recently had a change in division of work within the team. Louise now leads on internal development focusing on club support. Heidi’s main focus is now on external development, building links and creating partnerships outwith the orienteering community. Suzanne’s remit of enabling and supporting the coaching and volunteering workforce remains the same. 

Louise

Hi I’m Louise! I am Edinburgh-based and a member of Interlopers Orienteering Club. I am a graduate of The University of Edinburgh and have a Masters degree in Chemical Engineering. Outside of orienteering, I’m also a netball player and a member of Carnethy hill running club. I’m originally from Yorkshire where I was a member of the mighty SYO from pretty much the moment I was born. Back when orienteering was newly introduced to Britain in the 60s, my great-aunt took up the sport and it has made its way through the generations to me – a pattern I hope to continue in the future as I believe orienteering to be a sport that’s so beneficial, both mentally and physically no matter your age. I am seemingly an avid avoider of photographers at orienteering events (even though you will always find me competing!) so here are a couple of photos from my trip to Canada last year! If you see me around, feel free to come up and say hello.

Since the switch up between myself and Heidi, my role now focuses on supporting clubs, including keeping regular contact and listening to any issues clubs are facing. I also aim to share best practices amongst the orienteering community if clubs are doing especially great work. I also support events such as the Scottish Schools (and the British Schools since this year it is in Scotland!), Junior Inter Areas and the Jamie Stevenson Trophy. I am the point of contact for the West Area junior squad and am also in the process of setting up regular training for North Area juniors, which was highly requested following our junior feedback session held annually at the JIA weekend. I have been working with Maroc and Gramp in the run-up to and post the 6 Days, organising IntrO courses for teachers, outdoor instructors and scout leaders. I am currently working on a pilot project involving the installation of a new POC at Hazlehead Park in Aberdeen that will be accompanied by a noticeboard, gaining funding from a local Health Improvement Fund and working in partnership with Gramp and Aberdeen City Council. Myself and Heidi are also working towards becoming IntrO tutors so that we can run these courses more regularly.

Heidi

Hi, I’m Heidi! I am Edinburgh based and a member of ESOC. I enjoy both the mental and physical challenge of orienteering. My role involves reaching out to teaching institutions to train more teachers to be able to take lessons in orienteering. This includes Edinburgh University, Aberdeen University, Dundee University and Robert Gordons University.  When not orienteering I enjoy going to the gym and caring for my energetic Australian Shepherd Kipper.