SERC Sport students score fantastic opportunity with Glenavon Football Club

SERC Bangor campus students Ethan Thompson and Finlay Keenan, studying on the Ulster University Foundation Degree in Sport, Coaching and Fitness, are embarking on an eye-opening experience working alongside NI Football League Premiership team, Glenavon Football Club. 

Taking their sporting expertise to pitch, Ethan and Finlay have had the opportunity to use their knowledge on sport and fitness analytics to help Glenavon Football Club through their season and prepare them for their matches. They have been recording training sessions and matches to create match preparation videos, learning valuable skills and building experience along the way. 

Ethan Thompson says:

“I have been given a fantastic opportunity to work with one of the Northern Irish League teams, Glenavon FC. I have loved every minute, and have gained a lot of experience and knowledge including creating match preparation videos, that I have recorded each game this season. This has helped me during my course and will guide me in fulfilling a sport analysis job opportunity in the future.”     

Phillip McKelvey, SERC Curriculum Manager, Sport and Public Services adds:  

"It has been fantastic to be able to provide this opportunity to our Foundation Degree Sport, Coaching and Fitness students. The chance for Ethan and Finlay to work with a Premiership team for an entire season offers them invaluable experience and the platform to put into practice the taught content from their course. The commitment shown and skills gained will reflect well for them as they progress further in their careers." 

Paul McCrum, Performance Analyst, Glenavon Football Club commented: 

"Ethan and Finlay joined Glenavon Football Club in July 2022 and have both been great additions. They have been a valued and dependable help both on match days and assisting in preparing for matches. I trust that the experience they have gained so far throughout the season has provided them with invaluable knowledge, developing the theory provided by SERC into practical examples to guide them in the future. I look forward to continuing to work closely with Ethan and Finlay over the coming months to assist with their further development." 

Well done Ethan and Finlay on your dedication and hard work. 

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