One of UCFB’s media students has been talking to us about his first experience of doing live commentary on a football match.

Reece Sullivan, who studies BA (Hons) Multimedia Sports Journalism at UCFB Wembley, works as a graphic designer for National League South club Hemel Hempstead FC.

However, he was asked by the club’s head of media to join the commentary box on an away match at Welling United.

Reece said about the experience: “I can’t wait to commentate again.

“The overall experience was something I’m so grateful for, because commentating wasn’t something I had considered doing when I joined the club as a graphic designer.”

The match saw Hemel Hempstead win 1-0, making it two wins from two at the start of the league season.

When asked about how his placement at Hemel Hempstead is going so far, Reece added: “I joined Hemel as a graphic designer just from networking with people and sending emails out to clubs.

“I had three clubs reply, Hemel being the one I went for. I am so glad I did, as the media staff and the club have taught me so much, trying to make me a well-rounded individual when it comes to media rather than just being a graphic designer.”

When asked about his time at university, he said: “I’m thoroughly enjoying my time at UCFB so far. Now going into my second year, the uni has taught me many valuable things about the sports media industry, as well as making many friends throughout my first year.

“My degree has been key in helping me whilst being at Hemel, just understanding how different roles of the media work in football, and the lecturers being so supportive just motivates me to reach the next level.”

He finished: “My advice would be to get as much experience whilst you can from as soon as you start uni, because this will be so valuable as others can see that you’ve got the right characteristics and the knowledge to work within the industry.”

To find out more about our industry partners, such as the National League, who offer our students invaluable work experience alongside their studies, click here.

Alternatively, click here to download a prospectus to see what a sports industry-related degree at UCFB could offer you and your career.