As part of National Volunteer Week, our Club & People Development Coordinator, Kirsten Tyson, sat down with Fremantle Volleyball volunteer Cynthia Harriman to learn more about her volunteering and what it means to her to support her club. 

Cynthia Harriman is a force to be reckoned with. As a mum of three beautiful children, a full-time employee, and a dedicated volunteer for the Fremantle Volleyball Club, her story is one of boundless energy and unwavering commitment.

Cynthia’s volleyball journey began in 1990, and this year marks her 34th year in the sport. Her love for volleyball has seen her playing on hard courts, sandy beaches, and indoor beach courts. Currently, she shines in the Western Australian Volleyball League (WAVL) and the Indoor Beach Super League, showcasing her versatility and skill across different formats of the game.

Cynthia leads with passion and determination as the captain of her Division 1 Reserves WAVL Team. Her leadership extends beyond the court, as she also serves on the club’s committee, helping to organise events and foster a sense of community.

For Cynthia, volleyball is more than just a sport; it’s a source of connection and acceptance. Through the years, she has built lasting friendships and found a second family within the volleyball community. One of her proudest moments was winning the Division 3 championship in 2023, a testament to her dedication and hard work.

Balancing her roles as a support worker, an employee at Wise Employment, and a staff member at The Camfield, Cynthia is a master of time management. Her ability to juggle multiple jobs and still find time for volleyball and volunteering is nothing short of inspiring. She finds joy in interacting with people and cherishes the connections she makes along the way. When asked what being able to volunteer means to her Cynthia said, “Joining as a volunteer has opened all these avenues for sharing my passion, but has also offered me the opportunity to learn the structural component that is necessary for all clubs to thrive and grow.  Its challenging and consistently evolving nature is exciting to be a part of, and I look forward to the meetings, coaching, and contacts to increase my knowledge of back-of-house procedures.  I’m so thankful to be able to volunteer my time and to support my club Freo Fury. It is an amazing club with amazing people, and I have so much fun connecting with them in this capacity.”

Cynthia’s leadership skills are not confined to the volleyball court. She spent 10 years involved with two separate Rugby Union Clubs, serving as president for one of them. Her experience in rugby union further highlights her exceptional ability to lead and inspire others.

Meeting Cynthia was an unforgettable experience. Her warmth and genuine nature instantly put you at ease, making conversations with her flow effortlessly. Her story is a testament to the power of dedication, passion, and the impact one person can have on their community. She put the role community sports and volunteering can play in lives clearly when she explained,  “Since the first day of playing volleyball at all of 14 years old, my passion for the sport has never faltered. It has given so much structure to my life, that I can’t see myself without it. Volleyball is my excitement, my mental and physical health, my social interaction, and it offers a deep emotional connection for me. ”

Cynthia Harriman is truly the heartbeat of Fremantle Volleyball Club. Her remarkable journey and tireless efforts continue to inspire everyone around her. Simply put, she is amazing!