Having just graduated from UCFB’s BA (Hons) Multimedia Sports Journalism programme, Dan Briard is putting his degree to good use at Luton Town FC working as the club’s Press & Media Assistant. Starting at the Championship club as an unpaid intern two years ago, he shares how it feels to have survived a pandemic with Luton Town and how his last-minute decision to go to UCFB Wembley was one of the best he ever made…

Congratulations on your promotion to Press & Media Assistant at Luton Town! How does it feel to secure a role full-time with the club? 

I’m really pleased to secure a full-time role with the club. Having started as an intern and then part-time, it is great to now transition into full-time work where I am already used to the surroundings and how the club operates. My main aim going forward is to try and help progress Luton Town’s social media channels and continue gaining valuable skills I can use in the future.

You've been working with the club for two years. What have you learnt so far and what have been some of the highlights? 

It was a privilege to be part of the club last season whilst matches were behind closed doors. I felt very lucky to still attend games and on the pitch, Luton Town finished 12th which was a real improvement compared to the last-day survival the season prior!

How has your BA (Hons) Multimedia Sports Journalism degree helped you in this role?

The degree not only helped me gain further written skills and multimedia techniques, but also the confidence to put myself out there and look for work placements during my time at UCFB.

You’ve previously worked for the FA Young Reporters club. Tell us about this and how it's helped build your knowledge of the sports industry?

I worked for The FA as part of the Young Reporters Club which allowed me to get my first press box experience, firstly covering an FA Youth Cup match between AFC Bournemouth and Manchester City to then reporting on Reading FC vs West Ham United in the Women’s FA Cup semi-final. As well as being part of a media day at St George’s Park, this role was one that opened my eyes to the industry and cemented my desire to work within football and to continue reaching out for further opportunities.

How did you find your time at UCFB?

My time at UCFB was really good. It was a late decision for me to go but I am so glad I did, not only because of the friends I have made but because of how much I have learned from lecturers, guest speakers, work experience, and of course gaining this job.

What advice would you pass on to anyone looking to study at UCFB?

Take full advantage of the opportunities you are given. If you put yourself out there and are willing to put the work in, UCFB will provide you with the chance to showcase your skills in a professional environment.