What is your current professional activity? And your involvement in sports?
I have been a player of the Star Seekers Basketball Club of Tobago from 2006 to present. This would span from teenage to adulthood and would’ve seen me transitioned from a player to undertaking administrative duties for the club as well. This new involvement afforded me a clearer understanding into the actual functionality of a sport club from an administrative perspective. It also allowed me to broaden my knowledge base as well as my approach to situations which may arise in the sporting world as I was better equipped. I am now capable of functioning more effectively as my aim is to always be current with the world of sports.
Why did you choose to study the FIFA/ CIES Programme in Sport Management at The University of the West Indies?
I chose to study this Programme at this institution as it provided the foundation of growing and development in the administrative aspect of sport as is evident by the courses offered. Additionally, the structure of the delivery of the Programme being online was extremely influential in my decision making as I could still carry on with my personal life as normal and also become more qualified. The degree being accredited by FIFA and CIES was crucial for me as well.
Despite the unfortunate position of not being able to take full advantage of the blended learning approach that the Programme itself boasts in such unprecedented times due to the COVID-19 pandemic, I am eternally grateful as from an economic perspective, it benefitted me a great deal.
What were your expectations before the start of the course? And… we’re they met?
I had great expectations initially as the proposed eight courses to be covered lent itself for thoughts of great things to be learnt. I must say it surpassed my expectations and allowed me to gain a holistic understanding of sports with which I am extremely grateful for.
What would you say are the key strengths of the UWI/FIFA/CIES Postgraduate Diploma in Sports Management?
If I am to begin I would say from inception, the administrative personnel who caretakes this Programme, in Ms Calisia Gregoire. Her ability to always lend the necessary support and guidance in navigating through the entire process is second to none. I was oftentimes motivated by the simple gestures she’d make and also her willingness to ensure that everything goes smoothly. As it relates to the actual Programme I would say the lecturers/ facilitators’ ability to effectively deliver the course material. This is evident as if any challenges would ensue, you were always able to get the necessary assistance in working things out. They all want the best for you and would ultimately work feverishly in ensuring that you succeed. In addition to all that was mentioned, the additional external programmes that are incorporated as well are also great strengths that it has as you are able to broaden not only your knowledge but your ability to network with other individuals from different parts of the world as well which gives yourself the room to grow and develop in your career and personal life as well.
What benefits (on a personal and/ or professional level) did you gain from attending the course?
The benefits derived from attending this course on a personal level is becoming an even greater team oriented person. I was also able to improve on my communicating skills and my ability to think bigger as well. I am also a more avid supporter of ensuring effective structures are in place in order to gain a desirable outcome of a sporting product.
How have the courses offered by the Programme aided in developing your knowledge, competencies, and skills?
I am now more equipped and can function effectively in the sporting world. I think I can now make more informed decisions and have a greater input into the growth and development of sports. I can safely say that I feel more welcome in if not all but most sport conversation that I may be exposed to as I now have a more expansive knowledge base and experience in the field, I can ultimately do way more than I know I could’ve done before doing this course.
How has the Programme contributed to your professional growth and employability?
Having completed this Programme has now increased my interest in pursuing sports administration on a more intense level. I now have great aspirations of growing as an Event Coordinator as I see the great need of this in the actual development of the sport product on the island of Tobago. I think it is important especially for athletes as they need the necessary experience if they intend to make it on the world stages and become successful as well.
What is your best memory/ highlight of the course?
My fondest memory is the debates that the Sport Law Course encourages. It gives you the opportunity to have very constructive conversations and to also see the variations a scenario may bring. I was also able that’s a clearer understanding of the laws and bylaws which governs sports and possible reasons for decisions being made. I was overjoyed and excited to be a part of this course as the excitement that it brings when I view it on the television, I was just so prepared for it. I mean I would have liked to have that actual physical experience but what I was afforded did as much justice as it needed to.
Would you recommend the UWI/ FIFA/ CIES Postgraduate Diploma in Sports Management? Why?
I would highly recommend this Programme to anyone interested in growing and developing in sports as it is a great foundation to begin this process. It encompasses the necessary tools to take you to the next step in your career. The course material and delivery mode speak volumes and also from an economic and time management perspective, it can be seen as ideal for almost any individual.