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We caught up with Sports Management graduate Liam to reflect on his journey at UA92 and how its industry-led approach helped prepare him for a career in sport. From gaining real-world experience through internships to publishing academic research and progressing to postgraduate study at the Real Madrid Graduate School, Liam’s story shows what’s possible when ambition is supported by the right environment.
What initially attracted you to Sports Management and why UA92?
Sports Management was the obvious choice because it gave me the opportunity to combine my passion for sport with practical lessons in business and leadership.
UA92 stood out to me because it offered more than just a traditional degree. The fact that there were opportunities to apply my knowledge practically, as well as a curriculum that was co-developed by organisations in the sports industry reassured me that I’d be leaving university not only with a qualification, but with real-world understanding. I wanted to learn in an environment where I would graduate prepared and UA92’s industry partnerships and hands-on approach made it the clear choice.
How did UA92’s practical, industry-focused approach shape your learning?
It meant that I was exposed to situations that built genuine confidence in my own abilities. It also meant that when I graduated, I did so with a portfolio of real project work and a network with connections across the sports sector. The approach made me feel more prepared for my future career and helped me trust my judgement, communicate professionally, and walk into rooms feeling like I belonged there.
How important was combining study with real-world experience?
It was essential to my development. My internship at Lancashire Cricket Club allowed me to apply theoretical knowledge in a professional setting, refine the soft skills that it’s hard to put in the classroom and build confidence in real decision-making situations. It gave me a far clearer understanding of industry expectations and ensured that by the time I graduated, I already had experience navigating the professional world.
Your research was published in FC Business Magazine. What was the focus and how did UA92 support you?
My research focused on evaluating the effectiveness of Profit and Sustainability Rules in the Premier League, a topic I felt was genuinely important given the ongoing debate around financial regulation in football. The publication came about through the support of my supervisor, Spencer, whose connections with FC Business Magazine opened the door for my work to be considered. UA92 always pushed me to the best academic standard, which alongside the encouragement of the staff around me, allowed my work to reach publication standard. It was one of the moments where I realised the environment you’re in really does shape what you’re capable of producing.
You were awarded the Chancellor’s Medal at graduation. What contributed most to your success?
I don’t think I can point to a single thing. For me it was a combination of hard work, resilience, and genuinely being surrounded by the right people. My classmates and lecturers always pushed me to raise my standards, and that environment of high expectations ran throughout all three years.
Beyond that, I think a willingness to adapt and take initiative, to put my hand up and try things even when I wasn’t sure of the outcome, played a significant role. The medal felt like a reflection of everything those three years demanded of me, not just academically but personally.
How did UA92 prepare you for postgraduate study at the Real Madrid Graduate School?
UA92 prepared me well because it never separated knowledge from application. The practical assessments, including presentations, live briefs, and industry projects, meant I arrived at the Real Madrid Graduate School already comfortable performing in practical environments. Being surrounded by exceptional individuals from across the world could easily be intimidating, but UA92 had already taught me how to hold my own in those rooms. I arrived not just with academic knowledge, but with the mindset, communication skills, and professional experience to compete at that level.
What advice would you give to current UA92 students?
Build your personal brand early and take it seriously. Networking is one of the most critical skills in the sports industry and it opens doors that qualifications alone cannot. Say yes to as many opportunities as UA92 puts in front of you, especially the ones that push you outside your comfort zone, because those are often the most formative. Engage with guest speakers, show up with curiosity, and remember that the most important connections you make are often in the moments you least expect. The more visible and genuine you are, the more opportunities will find you.
What are your hopes for the future?
In the short term, I want to make the most of every opportunity within my current environment, absorbing as much as I can, connecting with people, and continuing to grow. Looking further ahead, I hope to either build a meaningful career within the sports industry at the highest level or create my own business within it. The sports sector is evolving rapidly, and I want to be someone who contributes to that evolution rather than just observes it. Ultimately, my goal is to turn everything I have invested in my education into something that has a real impact.
Find out more about UA92’s Sports Management and Business of Football degrees.
