sports-management

Student Profile - Richard Flash

Richard Flash, a previous student from UCB had his promising career as a professional and highly talented footballer come to an abrupt end as a result of an injury incurred whilst playing for Watford FC. Richard was a rising star and his future was bright, having also played for Manchester United, Aston Villa, Plymouth Argyle and Wolverhampton FC.

“Having to retire so early is nothing short of devastating, however being an optimist, I didn’t see this as a negative point in my life, I knew the value of education and the opportunities that could derive from studying for a Degree, so I applied to study a BA (hons) degree in sports management.

I chose UCB based on its outstanding reputation for teaching and the numerous recommendations I received from senior figures in the sports industry. My time at UCB was fruitful and hugely successful. I achieved a First class honours Degree and I’m pleased to say, I continued to perform well at Masters level.

I knew, having played for teams such as Aston Villa, Manchester United and Plymouth Argyle I had the practical experience but my management skills needed some work, so studying modules with a specific management and marketing focus really suited me. Given my extensive background in sports management, I am really pleased that I have secured a position as a senior lecturer teaching Football business marketing at UCFB (College of Football Business) based at Burnley FC, Lancashire."

Student Profile - Deepat Riak

"I attended school in Birmingham then started a degree course at another institution. My father thought that it would be best for me to study a degree in Architectural Technology. The more I pleaded with him to change his mind. The more he persisted. So eventually I did what he asked.

I completed my First Year with average grades but my heart was never truly committed to this course and every lecture was a bore to me. During the second year my grades plummeted and I used to hate studying towards something I had no interest in, I am living proof that if your heart is not completely behind what you want to do, one will never achieve maximum potential.

It was during the second year I built up the courage to talk to my father and tell him how I felt. When I told him about UCB and the Sports Management Degree, he thought I would be wasting my time. I have currently finished my second year with a first and am choosing a Dissertation topic within the next two weeks.

I love a challenge, at UCB I constantly talk with lecturers and if I have a point they do not simply disregard it, they ask me to go into more depth. I have never seen teaching of this quality. All of my lecturers are educated, with some still studying, so if anyone knows what students are going through it is them.

The highlight of my course was travelling to Germany with the University. We were based in East Berlin and it was great. We visited some amazing places and met some great people along the way.

I have recently started a Martial Arts School, so after my degree, all my efforts will go into helping people within the Art. I am a passionate believer I doing well, so I hope to help the community with my School.

Without a doubt, research the choice of course carefully. If you have a preference about where you want to go or what you want to study, don't be afraid to tell people. If possible try and talk to people who have already completed the course or who are in the industry."