William Rainbow

• Year of graduation: 2022
• Current job title: Head of Academy Sport Science
• Current employer: Northampton Town Football Club
• Industry sector: Professional sport

I chose to complete the MSc Strength and Conditioning course at UON because the University is surrounded by brilliant sports clubs that can provide suitable placements. Also, when I met with the course leader, I recognised that the amalgamation of theory and practice would be the perfect environment for me. Finally, it was affordable and local to where I live, so was the ideal place for me to complete my studies.

I really enjoyed the course split between theory sessions and practice – whether this was in the gym, or outside on the pitch. It was the perfect opportunity to put theory to practice, which is brilliant for anyone who’s a practical learner. Also, the opportunity to support local clubs and communities with voluntary work was hugely important and very enjoyable. Having these opportunities helped me to use what I’d learnt in my lectures in the real world, which is something that can be difficult to come across in a learning environment.

As part of my degree, I completed a placement with Northampton Town Football Club Academy (NTFC), where my main role was to assist the Lead Sport Scientist. I worked voluntarily three to four days a week and was responsible for planning and leading pitch and gym-based sessions for all age groups from U9s to U18s.

The placement benefited me in many ways. Firstly, it opened the door for me to apply for the job of Head of Academy Sport Science. I wouldn’t have been given this opportunity, or secured the role, if I hadn’t consistently showed up and supported others who work for the organisation. It also allowed me to develop my employability skills, including communication and rapport building, self-motivation, teamwork, and problem solving. Additionally, I was fortunate enough to complete my dissertation project with NTFC, which benefited not only myself, but also the teams that took part within the research.

My main tip for applying for, or getting the most benefit from a placement, is to show up to as many sessions as possible, because you never know the advantages of a position you might find yourself in, and you might never have the opportunity again unless you put yourself in that position in the first place. Also, be confident and ask questions, as you won’t gain the knowledge you need if you don’t.

I’ve worked hard as a volunteer to reach the stage of my career that I’m at today. In the future, now that I’ve worked in a youth environment, I’d like to experience senior teams and potentially work in a different sport (if the right opportunity occurs). It’s important to gain experience of as many different sports as possible – it’s never a ‘one size fits all’, as theory doesn’t change, but the way you apply it always does.

The skill I’ve gained on my course that’s most useful in my current role is the confidence to have faith in my knowledge and opinions. It’s important not to take things at face value – always do some extra research and build your own thoughts and beliefs.

My experience of studying at UON was practical and different. It was also difficult at times, as well as being fun, supportive, and knowledgeable.