Two UCFB students are set for an unforgettable experience when they travel to Paris for the finals weekend of the French Open at Roland Garros.
UCFB Wembley BA (Hons) Football Business & Marketing students Joe Enright and Joe Thompson will accompany UCFB academic Deepak Trivedi to the tournament and soak up the atmosphere of the second tennis Grand Slam of the year, as well as getting the amazing opportunity to attend the final of both the men’s and women’s events.
The experience for both students came about thanks to Deepak and his role outside of UCFB. Deepak is an international tennis consultant, and last year was able to grant two students the chance to shadow him over the fortnight of the US Open in New York City.
The successful students in August were granted their place following an intense interview process. Joe and Joe, who’re heading to Paris, were presented the opportunity this time around after coming runner-up in the US Open application process.
This time around, the students will analyse the culture of the event and how it’s organised. They’ll assess the likes of the events’ sponsorship, marketing, fan experience and its organisation.
While in Paris, the pair will work closely with Deepak on these criteria before then presenting their findings on how the event differs from major events in other sports like football, with Deepak keen for them to understand the business aspects of different sports.
Joe Enright said: “This is a fantastic opportunity to experience an international Grand Slam event first-hand, and I’m really looking forward to experiencing the famous atmosphere of Roland Garros. It is not every day you are able to witness a Grand Slam Final; it will surely be an experience I won’t forget.”
Joe Enright, is enrolled on the BA (Hons) Football Business & Marketing programme at UCFB Wembley
He added: “To tie this opportunity into my marketing degree, I am really intrigued as to how the French Open will utilise their partners and brands to enhance the fan experience.
“The 2016 French Open has over double the amount of sponsorships compared to this year’s Wimbledon event, so it will be interesting to see whether or not the branding will be too overwhelming in Paris.”
Joe Thompson is equally thrilled. He said: “This is a fantastic opportunity for myself to see how a top class event such as the French Open runs. It’s a once in a life time experience and I can’t wait!”
Joe Thompson, is a year two student enrolled on the BA (Hons) Football Business & Marketing programme at UCFB Wembley.
Commenting on the students upcoming trip, Deepak said: “This is a great opportunity for our UCFB students’ to gain international experience at a world class, global sporting event. I strongly feel that any opportunity students’ get to network with people in the industry on a global scale gives them much needed exposure and insight into this amazing industry.”
