UCFB graduate on the joys of gaining experience in non-league football

A UCFB graduate is the latest to be plying his trade in non-league, and has been speaking about the importance of gaining experience in the lower leagues.

Only months after graduating from UCFB with a degree in BA (Hons) Football Coaching and Management, Matthew Swift was named head of data and analytics, first team coach and U16 coach at National League North club Chorley FC.

Matthew spent much of his UCFB journey gaining experience at his hometown club alongside his studies, and talked about how vital it is for others to work while studying at UCFB.

“The link UCFB has to the National League is crucial,” Matthew said.

Year after year, UCFB students gain experience at National League clubs, whether it be in sports media, business and coaching. Find out about just some of the students who have enjoyed placements at clubs while studying.

Matthew continued: “It’s one thing developing your skills in a classroom setting, where you’re learning and doing your assignments; it’s another thing going and putting them skills into practice. You don’t know how good you are until you go and do it.”

He went on to say what makes non-league football such a special place to be involved, as an employee, student or fan.

“Personally, I think non-league is so special because of how clubs are together,” he said.

“They’re community clubs, they’re not clubs which are turning fans in, or just want as many fans as they can get in just to get in and out and spend a bit of money.”

Speaking of his hometown team Chorley FC specifically, he added: “This club means something to the town, the people who come and watch it. I live around the corner from the ground.

“I’ve followed Chorley all my life; I remember in the Counties Leagues when we’d have 200 to 300 fans. To see the team grow and the club grow as well, it’s great to see. It’s the togetherness for me of non-league that’s special.”

Learn more about the many UCFB graduates thriving across the football and wider sports industry.

You can also score your own career goals in the industry by viewing a UCFB prospectus.