Each Thursday we want to put the spotlight on a person involved with goalball – from players, officials, coaches, or anyone.

This week we caught up with Kirsty Allen!

What club do you play for or coach?

I have been coaching at Nottinghamshire Sheriffs for around 9 years now.

Nottinghamshire Sheriffs team photo at the Intermediate Trophy. 4 players in green jerseys are standing together with coach Kirsty to the left, and coach Hannah to the right who are both wearing black shirts.

 How did you discover goalball?

Through My Sight Nottinghamshire and The University of Nottingham. 

Is there a particular song, artist or genre that you listen to before a tournament to get in the mood? Or anything you’re loving at the moment?

I generally like all types of music but normally something more upbeat and motivating to get me pumped before getting game ready and in the right mindset. 

Do you have any pre-game superstitions or rituals?

A ritual of mine would be getting ready in a certain order, I feel it’s bad luck if I don’t do something the same every time. 

Kirsty Allen standing on deck of a commercial boat in a floral dress. There are bright blue skies behind her, and blue water for miles!

Do you have a favourite post-match meal?

The Nottinghamshire Sheriffs crew do love a good service stop at a fast food place!

Which goalball player do you admire the most and why?

There are a few, but I would have to say Kali Holder, I love her style of play and over the years have seen such a big improvement in both her performance at tournaments and also confidence and how much she encourages others to be a real team player. 

Outside of goalball, what other hobbies/sports do you do?

I play a good level of football. I am currently signed with Mansfield Town Ladies 1st team so I play around 3 times a week as well as going to the gym. I also love socialising with friends and visiting new places. 

Kirsty Allen having her photo taken on an artificial football pitch in her yellow and blue Mansfield kit. Kirsty is holding a silver trophy in her right hand, and a silver trophy plate in her left hand!

Finally, what place, anywhere in the world, is on your bucket list to visit and why?

I would really like to go to Dubai and learn more about the culture and history and to see some of the amazing sights. 

To check out the rest of the articles from our ‘Featured Thursday’ series please use the following link Goalball UK – Featured Thursday.