Volunteer Spotlight – Phil A. Corkett (ON)
CEC: Can you tell us a bit about yourself and how you got involved in the climbing community?
Phil: My name is Phil, and I started climbing in 2019 with my daughter. We both quickly fell in love with the sport—it really grew on us. After about three years, we switched to a new gym following COVID. My daughter was invited to join the gym’s competitive team, and she happily accepted. A month or so before her first qualifier, she turned to me and said, “Hey, since we started climbing together and I’m competing this year, you should compete too.” Without fully realizing what I was signing up for, I agreed—and it turned out to be an amazing experience!
CEC: What initially motivated you to start volunteering with climbing?
Phil: The energy at competitions was incredible. The climbing community, which I already knew to be supportive and inclusive, carried that same spirit into the competitive circuit. During the second qualifier that year, I learned more about the volunteer-driven nature of the sport and decided to get involved by judging I’m so glad I took that step. Volunteering has been deeply fulfilling, allowing me to give back to a sport and community that has welcomed me with open arms and has become such a meaningful part of my life.
CEC: How has your involvement in climbing (either as a participant or volunteer) shaped your life?
Phil: Climbing has enriched my life in so many ways. It’s introduced me to incredible friendships, given me the opportunity to bond with my daughter, and helped me stay physically and mentally fit. I also love the technical and problem-solving aspects of climbing—they keep me challenged and engaged. Before the start of my second year, I connected with an amazing group of athletes and formed an adult team. We train together once a week, and competing as a group brings so much joy to my life.
CEC: Why do you think volunteering is important for the growth of climbing in Canada?
Phil: Volunteering is essential because the sport relies heavily on the time and energy of volunteers to function. Without them, events wouldn’t be possible. Volunteering also sets a great example for younger athletes, showing them that even if they’re not competing (although I still do!), they can still contribute to something bigger than themselves. It’s an opportunity to shape and grow the ever-evolving climbing community. Plus, volunteering allows parents of young athletes to focus on their children and enjoy the events, making the experience even more rewarding for everyone involved.
CEC: If you could volunteer at any event in the world, which event and where would it be, and why?
Phil: If I could volunteer anywhere, it would be at a world-class event, supporting Canadian athletes on the global stage.
CEC: Thank you Phil for speaking with us, and for your commitment to our community!
