Named 5x60 Officer of the Month for July, Alan is just one of the motivators recruited by the Sports Council for Wales’ 5x60 scheme, which is funded by the Welsh Assembly Government.

Supported locally by Rhondda Cynon Taf County Borough Council, it is designed to get more secondary school pupils taking part in 60 minutes of physical activity five times a week.

The 24-year-old originally from Essex – who represents Wales in lacrosse and has played alongside cricketers Alistair Cook and Ravi Bopara for Essex - has persuaded scores of pupils to get off the sidelines and take part in 5x60 sessions.

He has only been in post for ten months but has already introduced a vast number of extra-curricular activities - 16 of which are running throughout the summer term with dodgeball, cricket and badminton proving most popular.

He explains, "I really enjoy working in a school environment being able to build relationships with staff and pupils. It’s great to see 5x60 giving pupils the opportunity to participate in activities and to see their confidence grow as they get more and more involved."

Michael Doyle, a pupil at Cardinal Newman RC Comprehensive School and a member of the 5x60 basketball team said, "5x60 gave us the opportunity to play basketball matches competitively and obtain a 100% record. We are grateful for the time our 5x60 Officer, Mr Croft, has put in, especially with transport and training."

Delighted with the success of the programme, Chair of the Sports Council for Wales, Philip Carling, said:

"The Sports Council for Wales’ 5x60 scheme is proving successful in tempting pupils off the sidelines and into sport. Activities like cheerleading, street dance and Frisbee golf are encouraging even the most reluctant and act as a gateway to other more traditional sports and an active lifestyle."