UCFB Burnley Students’ Union President Sam Swanton was amongst the successful individuals who travelled to the USA to spend a summer on work experience coaching young people at Orlando City Soccer Club.
During his trip, Football Business & Marketing student Sam coached young people at the club’s main camp, as well as other camps all across Orlando. Sam was able to coach and develop a range of people during his time at Orlando City, ranging in age, gender and ability. He took a training session with the club’s under 15 goalkeepers and on his last day, had the opportunity to spend time with Orlando City owner, Phil Rawlins, learning how the business side of the club worked.
Like any work placement, on occasion it was challenging, nevertheless it was an extremely rewarding experience for Sam to be part of. To witness how the children had grown over such a short period of time was a particular highlight for Sam, as he felt partly responsible for their improvement as individuals both on and off the field.
In addition to his work experience at Orlando City Soccer Club, Sam has enjoyed work experience at Wembley Stadium. During his placement Sam worked within the Operations department as Stadium Events Coordinator. Here he experienced life in the control room at the Stadium, covering important events such as the England v Scotland Rugby Football League game and the Manchester United v Wigan Community Shield match. Sam also produced reports with regards to stadium rules and regulations, making recommendations where applicable.
Through his love of football, Sam also worked for the Fantasy Football League where he was solely responsible for reporting on the affairs of his beloved Arsenal Football Club, assisting with their digital strategy through a variety of social media platforms.
In addition to work experience, Sam is integral to the overall UCFB experience as football captain of the UCFB Burnley men’s first team. Having played for the team for almost three years, Sam has experienced a number of sporting successes, such as the team being unbeaten in their first year and going on to compete in the final of the British Universities & Colleges Sport (BUCS) Northern Plate Cup.
As UCFB Burnley Students’ Union President, Sam is responsible for the organisation of all student related events and activities. He has successfully organised events such as Freshers’ Week and charity initiatives, namely the Children in Need 24-hour football marathon, fundraising for the British Heart Foundation and organising the annual sport tour to Salou.
Sam’s dedication to both his academic studies and his Students’ Union presidency demonstrates his dedication to his personal and professional development. He has been instrumental in the growth and development of the UCFB Burnley Students’ Union.
“I absolutely loved every minute of my placement at Orlando City Soccer Club. It was a once in a lifetime opportunity, doing what I love while sharing it with a group of passionate youngsters who wanted to learn the intricacies of the sport. I felt extremely appreciated as a coach, and it was genuinely an amazing experience that I will always carry with me during and beyond my journey at UCFB.”
