We are delighted to have given out our first Honorary Fellowships to some esteemed partners and graduates of UCFB and GIS.

Three people were made inaugural Honorary Fellows of UCFB and GIS. They were:

  • Gary Mellor – senior partner of Beswicks Legal and managing director of Beswicks Sports Management
  • Jason Roberts MBE – former professional footballer and director of development at CONCACAF
  • Rachel Brown-Finnis – former England goalkeeper

Speaking about becoming an Honorary Fellow of UCFB and GIS, Gary Mellor said: “It’s a massive honour. I’m incredibly humbled to be the first recipient of the award.

“I’m so passionate about educating the future sports leaders in the industry.”

Jason Roberts MBE added: “It feels like a really incredible moment for myself, my family, my community and the Jason Roberts Foundation.

“To be here and accept this award is something that makes me very proud. There’s been a lot of work that has gone into this moment.

“This is another step towards us being able to do more and building more partnerships.”

Rachel Brown-Finnis said: “I’m proud as punch. It’s unbelievable.

“I was there right at the beginning when UCFB was first at Burnley Football Club.

“Since retiring from football, I’ve gone into the industry which UCFB fully supports with graduates year in, year out.”

To find out more about the partnerships at UCFB and GIS which help provide our students with the best opportunities to forge a career in the sports industry, click here.