Professional activity/involvement in sport
Treasurer of the Victoria Education District Sport Association/Asst. Secretary/Treasurer of the Atlantic National Primary Schools Football League/Athletics. Coordinator of the Victoria Education District Sports Association/Executive Member of the Atlantic National Primary Schools Track and Field Association
Why did you choose to study the FIFA/CIES Programme in Sport Management at The University of the West Indies, St. Augustine Campus?
The accessibility of the programme at the campus would have been one of the first reasons. The fact that it was a blended learning environment afforded the working student the opportunity to study and work without having to constantly be on campus especially when having to travel from so far.
What were your expectations before the start of the course? And… were they met?
From reading about the course online and looking at the Youtube videos promoting the programme, I was expecting an immersion into the dynamic field of sport management and I was not disappointed. The course has provided the tools necessary for any aspiring sport administrator and persons desiring a serious challenge into this field. From knowledgeable instructors to quality online support, the course did not disappoint.
What would you say are the key strengths of the UWI/FIFA/CIES Postgraduate Diploma in Sports Management?
The encapsulating course content is definitely an eye opener and provides a solid foundation for any sport management practitioner. The flexibility of the blended learning environment is undeniably a key aspect especially for the working student. The fact that the programme is adjusted to the local sporting landscape makes the real life connections to theory even more substantial.
What benefits (on a personal and/or professional level) did you gain from attending the course?
A greater understanding of what occurs behind the scenes and really makes the sport industry turn was one such key outcome. I have been able to adapt practices within my local landscape as a result of the knowledge I would have gained as a result of this programme.
How have the courses offered by the programme aided in developing your knowledge, competencies, and skills?
I have been able to put together marketing and sponsorship plans for my organization and personal environment, develop a greater understanding of the many facets of sport law and its implications, adopt best practices into my financial responsibilities at my organization, recognize where the shortfalls lie in organizations as a result of the management modules as well as better understand the key position facilities play in sport and the need to properly plan for events so as to always expect the unexpected.
How has the programme contributed to your professional growth and employability?
While I have not made the switch to a larger organization as yet, it has assisted me in my current setting.
What is your best memory/highlight of the course?
Probably for me was the Law in Sport Module. The stimulating discussions that were generated has left an indelible mark on my psyche and made me realize I made probably the second best decision in my life (after marrying my wife) to undertake this course.
Would you recommend the UWI/FIFA/CIES Postgraduate Diploma in Sports Management? Why?
I would definitely recommend the programme to prospective students and sport enthusiasts with a passion for sport management because of the knowledge that can be acquired as a result of getting involved with this programme, the flexibility of the blended learning environment, the ability to challenge oneself as well as the many benefits that can be gained to helping enhance the local sporting arena.