A UCFB media student has been talking to us about a day in the life of a media team member at a football club.
Reece Sullivan, who studies BA (Hons) Multimedia Sports Journalism at UCFB Wembley, is a member of the media team at National League South side Hemel Hempstead FC.
Reece is gaining this quality sports media industry experience alongside his studies, working on such things as graphic design, social media and commentary.
Speaking through what a matchday looks like for him, Reece said: “In the morning, I make sure all graphics are ready and in the folder to access during the game.
“I then leave Wembley around 11.00 and get to the Focus Community Arena for around 12.30 to set up.
“After that, I capture some pre-match content such as players arriving, programme shots etc. During the game, make sure all the socials are kept up to date.
“After the game, I help set up interviews and sometimes be involved in taking them.
“Finally, I make sure the media suite is tidy and head back to Wembley!”
He added: “A highlight that will be in my memories forever is being able to step out onto Hillsborough when I did some work for our U18s when they were due to play Sheffield Wednesday in the FA Youth Cup.
“Another achievement of mine is exploring the world of commentary. It’s something I hadn’t thought of until Dan offered to have me alongside him, and I loved it.
“Meeting Martin Tyler was also a privilege!”
He went on to speak about how well his placement experience and degree course complement each other.
“One of the main things my lecturers always say is connect and communicate with people in the industry,” Reece said.
“This is exactly how I landed my role at Hemel, by sending emails out to clubs local to Wembley.
“The learning you get at UCFB is perfect, it sets you up to succeed in the industry you’re looking to get into.
“My course has gone hand in hand with my placement, helping me to complete interview and video assignments and many other tasks.”
When asked about his university experience so far, Reece said: “One of the main things I like most about studying at UCFB, is that I have been taught the essential skills for the media industry within football, and have been provided with non- stop opportunities.
“Being a student at the most iconic football ground in the world doesn’t get much better than that. Living in London as well, everything is on my doorstep, it’s an experience I’m so grateful for.”
He finished: “The main thing I would suggest to those looking for placements or looking to study at UCFB, is get experience as soon as you can.
“The opportunities you get on your placement will be huge, and will show you have the right skill set and knowledge to progress in the industry you want to work in.”
To find out more about UCFB’s multiple sports media-related degree courses, click here.
You can also click here to find out more about UCFB, our courses and offerings by viewing a prospectus.
