Reflecting on Eight Years of Leadership at Goalball UK
After eight years as Chair of Goalball UK, John Grosvenor is stepping down, leaving behind a stronger organisation, a thriving sport and a community that is more connected than ever before.
Since taking on the role in 2018, John has helped guide Goalball UK through a period of significant change. From increasing participation and strengthening governance to securing major investment and supporting the development of future Paralympians, his leadership has helped shape the organisation we see today.
His tenure also included some of the most challenging moments in Goalball UK’s history. During the Covid-19 pandemic, John provided calm and steady leadership, helping the organisation continue to support players, clubs and volunteers through this unprecedented period of uncertainty.
Under his stewardship, Goalball UK doubled its Sport England investment, secured UK Sport funding for the first time in a decade, launched the Goalball Academy, strengthened its performance pathway and played a key role in bringing the IBSA 2023 World Games to Birmingham.
As John hands over to incoming Chair Ian Clarke, Goalball UK is in a stronger position than ever. To mark the occasion, we asked John to reflect on his time as Chair and share his hopes for the future.
Looking Back
When you look back on your time as Chair, what change in the sport are you most proud to have seen?
“The organisation is much more professional and has a clear strategy and direction. The relationship with UK Sport is on a different level to eight years ago. The development of the talent and performance pathway is a big success, and I am sure this will show on the court in future years. My only regret is that we did not make changes earlier to the structure with a Performance Director.”
A Special Memory
What is your most cherished Goalball memory from your time in the role?
“I always enjoyed going to the different events, particularly the regional and intermediate competitions. My favourite memory is when a mother at a regional event told me that playing goalball had helped her young son develop as a person and that she found the community so supportive and helpful. It was wonderful to see people able to discuss shared experiences and challenges, such as education for blind people, and support one another.”
Looking Ahead
As you step away, what are your hopes for the future of the sport and its community?
“That it continues to grow at a grassroots level right across the UK and achieves even greater success internationally. Our GB Women’s team have been so close to breaking through for several years and there is now a huge amount of optimism about their development. I am excited to see what both our GB Goalball teams can achieve in the years ahead.”
Throughout his time as Chair, John has been a passionate advocate for goalball and the people who make the sport what it is today. His commitment, leadership and support have helped create a stronger future for Goalball UK and for blind and partially sighted players across the country.
On behalf of everyone at Goalball UK, thank you, John, for everything you have given to the sport over the past eight years. Your impact will be felt across the goalball community for many years to come, and we wish you all the very best for the future.
