Skip to content

I was able to build on my sports coaching profile thanks to studying at Cardiff Met

Student Ben Holdaway on the hockey pitch
Student Ben Holdaway on the hockey pitch

Cardiff has been my home for the past five years, after I transitioned straight from school into an undergrad in BSc Sport Coaching. I was immediately sold on Cardiff Met after attending an open day whilst I was in sixth form.

Looking back, I really enjoyed the practical elements of the course within the Sport Coaching, Sport Coaching and Physical Education and Applied Principles and Technique modules. In these modules we were introduced to various theories which would then inform our coaching practice during the next practical. Having classroom time to reflect on these sessions with staff and other students also gave further opportunity to review and improve delivery. This process of linking theory and practice continues throughout the Sport Coaching modules in second and third year and is the foundation of course. Studying the Performance Analysis module in my first and second year was also enjoyable as it was something I had never done before. It is also a module that really compliments the coaching programme. In second and third year I was doing a lot of coaching outside of lectures, which I used to gain the hours I needed as part of my work experience modules.

Continuing to an MSc in Sports Coaching and Pedagogy was a relatively easy choice for me, as a I wanted to continue my academic development. A large factor in this decision was what staying in Cardiff would allow me to do. By staying I was able to build on my coaching profile. Since then I have gained experience coaching with Cardiff & Met HC juniors, all three BUCS men’s teams, Howell’s School, St John’s School and with Hockey Wales within their talent development pathway. Having exposure to coaching at BUCS Prem and national age group level was another great experience that I am grateful for.

, I was able to build on my sports coaching profile thanks to studying at Cardiff Met, CARDIFF MET BLOG
I have gained experience coaching with Cardiff & Met HC juniors, all three BUCS men’s teams, Howell’s School, St John’s School and with Hockey Wales within their talent development pathway

My main sport is hockey. Naturally, it was a massive part of my time at Cardiff Met. Playing for the university was a fantastic experience and one which I would encourage everyone to try and be a part of. Being part of Men’s hockey allowed me to build so many friendships with people I may not have met otherwise. And of course, socials are a lot of fun.

Having a large support network was a vital part of my university experience. Moving onto university is a big step for anyone and can get difficult at times, so having people you can turn to in a range of situations is crucial. I’m extremely grateful for the friendships I made whilst at university. My advice to prospective and current students would be to try and connect yourself with as many people as possible, you never know when you might need someone. Equally, universities are a fantastic place to network. Looking towards life after graduation, who you know can be as much help as what you know. The careers service team were also extremely supportive with their help with my job applications and CV writing.

, I was able to build on my sports coaching profile thanks to studying at Cardiff Met, CARDIFF MET BLOG
Moving onto university is a big step for anyone and can get difficult at times, so having people you can turn to in a range of situations is crucial

In summary, my time spent at Cardiff Met has been unbelievable and it’s been difficult to finish this chapter of my life. To anyone looking to start at Cardiff Met I say go for it, you won’t regret.