A PAIR of students from East Renfrewshire have told how being given a key role in the development of Scottish sport has left them with that winning feeling.

Barrhead teenager Kira Henry and Fiona Waddell, from Giffnock, were thrilled to be chosen by sportscotland for its Young People’s Sport Panel.

They are now halfway through their two-year assignment, which involves providing a voice for young people to help shape the future of sport in Scotland.

And, as the dynamic duo reflect on their first year in the role, there is much to be proud of.

Despite the challenges posed by the Covid pandemic, Kira and Fiona have helped to deliver a number of projects, including the creation of three working groups examining disability sport, sport in schools and how to use sport to overcome poverty.

Former Barrhead High pupil Kira, 18, said: “So far, my highlight of being involved with the panel would definitely be meeting a group of like-minded people who all are aiming to make sport the best it can be for young people across Scotland.

“I’m certain that their influence so far will impact my life for years to come.”

Other key successes achieved by the panel include the launch of the Young People’s Sport Podcast, as well as taking part in judging for the Young Scot Awards.

Fiona, 20, who is a psychology student at the University of St Andrews, said: “Being fortunate enough to be part of the Young Scot Awards judging panel has been a highlight.

“Hearing all the outstanding contributions of so many young people was extremely humbling and incredibly uplifting.”