As an MSc Football Business student, Giovanni Pietrantonio was tasked with creating a presentation on the operations of a football venue. Having just returned from this year’s GIS New York Summit, he thought what better way to build a project than base it off the stadium he’d just spent the best part of two weeks at – the Red Bull Arena, home to the famous US soccer team.
Here, Giovanni takes us through the presentation, the highlights of the Summit and how he’s found being an international student in London…
Tell us about your Football Operations Management presentation and why you choose to focus on the Red Bull New York Stadium for the project?
For the Football Operations Management presentation, we had the task of developing critical analysis and evaluation of the logistical challenges faced by football-related organisations, particularly in relation to the people involved in daily operations and events.
After attending the GIS New York Summit a couple of weeks before the project was due, I thought it would be a good idea to create a presentation on one of the many venues we had the chance to visit during our time in the US. I did so to provide a unique perspective and insight into the stadium we were based at most of the time, as I got to know the arena better than most, as well as some of the people working for the NY Red Bull.
How did you find the 2022 New York Sports Summit? What were some of the highlights?
It was a fantastic experience! Firstly, we had the chance to attend various guest speakers' sessions with professionals working in some of the most prominent sports organisations in the US designed to help us better understand what it is like to work in such a competitive and dynamic environment.
Moreover, we were able to network with most of them and get to know them personally, contributing to expanding our connections and employability opportunities. Finally, the most incredible moments for me were when we experienced live NBA, MLS, NHL and NBL games in some of the most iconic venues in the world.
Alongside your Master's degree, you've had roles at Tottenham Hotspur FC and Velez Club de Futbal. How have these experiences built on your knowledge of the sports industry?
These two experiences contributed to building my self-confidence and belief in being successful within the industry I love. They also helped me learn how important it is to communicate clearly and honestly with colleagues to create a healthy and productive working environment.
Furthermore, they allowed me to develop my organisational and listening skills and the ability to liaise constructively with team members.
What have you taken into the roles from your MSc Football Business programme?
The main attribute I have taken into the roles from the programme is approaching tasks, issues or any other kind of matter with a critical mind. Having critical thinking allows you to break down things and improve your ability to comprehend and analyse situations, no matter the circumstances! That's one of the main focuses of GIS programmes: to develop students' ability to think and act critically.
How have you found being an international student at GIS?
Moving to the UK over five years ago has helped my transition as an international student. If I’m honest, I haven’t faced any challenges integrating into the university environment. Everyone at GIS has always been friendly, welcoming and ready to help from day one!
Prospective international students shouldn't be afraid of moving away from home as I think that one of the best ways to enrich yourself is to develop a strong ability to adapt to new situations.
What advice do you have for anyone looking to study at GIS?
Just go for it! If you are looking to develop a career within the sports industry, there's no better place to study. The number of opportunities to meet professionals and establish connections is infinite and the knowledge you can gain from modules is invaluable for your personal development.
