Student on his ‘UCFB Road to the World Cup’ experience in Miami

One of the many UCFB students who travelled to Miami as part of our Road to the World Cup Experience has been talking about his time out there.

Stavros Chanas, who studies BA (Hons) Football Business and Media, was one of the 150 students who spent some time in Florida, networking with sports industry professionals ahead of the 2026 FIFA World Cup in the United States, Mexico and Canada.

“I had an amazing time in Miami,” he said. “It was my first time in the USA.”

The trip was based at Inter Miami CF’s Chase Stadium, where students heard from industry experts about the football industry specifically in North America.

“When we visited Chase Stadium,” Stavros said, “the speakers explained all the effort and planning that goes into preparing for a major event like the upcoming World Cup in the USA next year.

“The speakers shared plenty of insights about working with FIFA, collaborating on projects, and the organization involved in preparing for a major event.”

He added: “There were plenty of great moments during the trip, but covering an Inter Miami game as a photographer was a real pinch me moment. On top of that, seeing Lionel Messi walk right past me was completely surreal.”

Stavros finished by offering advice for other young people wanting to secure a career in the football and wider sports industry.

“Volunteer as much as you can,” he said. “It builds connections, helps you network with future employers or potential clients, and opens doors you wouldn’t expect.

“Also, be visible online. Share your work on Instagram, LinkedIn, YouTube, and other platforms. The louder you are about what you do, the more successful you’ll be in the industry. Let people know who you are and what you can do.”

Find out more about UCFB’s dedicated Employability and Career Planning Team, who help our students gain invaluable experience alongside their studies.

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