Sunderland AFC first-team coach, Andrew Taylor, kicked off our new College sporting initiative last month. The Sports Seminar Series aims to bring aspiring sports, fitness and health professionals together with those successful in their future industry and the kick start certainly achieved that.
Sports lecturer and leader of the Sports Seminar Series, Ian Clark said “Our aim is to show our students the breadth and depth of the sports industry adding ‘real life’ to the theory they learn. We couldn’t of dreamed for a better start than what Andrew provided”.
Hartlepool born, Andrew, is the current SAFC first-team coach after bringing his 17-year professional playing career to an end last summer. During his time as a professional, he amassed over 400 professional games for seven different clubs, representing his country up to under21 level. Off the field he developed his knowledge and skills by completing his coaching badges and recently graduated with a Masters Degree in Sports Management. His on and off the field experiences captivated the audience.
Ian added, “It’s so refreshing to hear Andrew speak. He covered all topics from coaching philosophy to the changes in sports science and the psychology needed to be a top athlete. Every question was answered and our students left inspired further for their future. We are so grateful for his time”.
The event was invite-only to the fifty students studying on a Foundation Degree in Sports Coaching and Exercise at the college, as the successful programme continues to create future sports professional. Andrew reflected “I really enjoyed the event and thank Ian and Hartlepool College for giving me the opportunity. The students were fantastic and some of their questions really challenged me and got me thinking. It’s great to see the quality of opportunity available in my home town and I’m happy to help however I can.”
More events of the Sports Seminar Series are planned with guest speakers from Basketball, Cricket, Cycling and Martial Arts to name but a few. If you are interested in the series or would like to find out more about the Foundation Degree in Sports Coaching and Exercise please contact Ian on Ian.clark@hartlepoolfe.ac.uk