Case Study: Andrew Simmonds, MPCT Sports Academy

Andrew Simmonds is 18 years old and lives in Cross Keys, Gwent. He joined MPCT Sports Academy on 4/9/17. Previously Andrew had studied sport at Cross Keys college but was attracted to the opportunities that lay at the MPCT Sports Academy in Cardiff.

Andrew has really enjoyed his time at MPCT. He has particularly enjoyed learning new skills in a fun and challenging way. His favourite activities have been PT sessions, especially learning new team sports. While on the programme he has made lots of new friends from different areas which has helped him to settle.

In June, Andrew attended a field trip to University of South Wales (USW). This was a chance to listen to the opportunities that were on offer for young people like himself. While taking a tour around USW Sports Park, Andrew was blown away by the facilities and this motivated him to find out how he could study at the campus. Fortunately, he was able to talk to Technical Demonstrator in Football Coaching and Development, Bobby Briers, about how he was to apply.

After speaking to his parents about his future options, Andrew decided to take this opportunity seriously and went along to the USW Open Day. He decided upon the course he wished to study and applied. After a couple of weeks, he received an unconditional offer! He has since arranged his student finance and accommodation at the halls of residence and is set to enrol in September!

Andrew is excited by the opportunities that may come his way in future. He has shown a good work ethic while at the Sports Academy. For example, in his own time he has volunteered with his local mini and junior club. This will serve him well while at USW. He already has a link in the area with MPCT partner, Sport RCT, who he has volunteered with while a member of the Sports Academy. He can hopefully build upon this link to gain further experience. Andrew is looking forward to finding out more about the coaching industry and developing his skills and understanding further while at USW.

We are very proud of how Andrew has acted upon this initial opportunity and has used the Sports Academy as a stepping stone towards achieving his future goals. We wish you the very best for the future!

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