I was an undergraduate at Loughborough. My BSc Sport and Exercise Science included a 12-month placement. I opted to spend a year with the England and Wales Cricket Board as a Performance Analysis Intern.
I thoroughly enjoyed it – expanding my knowledge and experience while developing a range of skills. I realised that I wanted to pursue further studies and a career in the field. So, the MSc Applied Sport Performance Analysis was my natural next step.
Throughout the course, my lecturers and personal tutor were always available to provide feedback on my progress. Lectures were two-way conversations – we were encouraged to contribute to discussions. This really increased my confidence to share my thoughts and ideas. Likewise, collaborating with my course mates was instrumental in my development, helping me widen my knowledge and gain fresh perspectives.
My dissertation explored whether the introduction of The Hundred has changed KPIs in the Men’s One Day Cup with the introduction of younger and less experienced players in the latter. Working on a real-world challenge encouraged me to think critically. Interviewing coaches and analysts to collect their thoughts was great. My project supervisor was really supportive, and it was a fantastic experience.
Like my undergraduate degree, my Masters incorporated opportunities for hands-on experience. I was lucky enough to work with Nottinghamshire CCC, gaining invaluable first-hand experience of working in a professional county cricket environment.
Throughout my studies, I honed the two very important skills of communication and critical analysis. I am able to confidently communicate with coaches and players, while exploring and thinking critically about how best respond to their requests. Developing my Tableau skills has also been vital to my work.