Sam began his sports career as Academy Football Operations Assistant at Norwich City, the club where he completed his placement and worked at up until his final year began. In this role he was able to apply a range of skills from his degree, including registering players, overseeing finance and logistics.

He was then offered an opportunity to return to Bournemouth to work for AFCB as Academy Operations and Admin Assistant, and within a year gained a promotion to become Academy Operations Manager. As he prepares to enter his fifth season with the Cherries, he has moved into the new role of Assistant Academy Manager.

Sam says: “Everything I learned on the course at BU is so transferable. I am really looking forward to continuing to develop at AFCB and also develop my role within professional football.”

Factfile

Name: Sam Gisborne
Age: 27
Job role: Assistant Academy Manager
Organisation: AFC Bournemouth
Course studied: BSc (Hons) Sports Management
Graduated: 2016

What their colleagues say

It is rare to find a young man with the commitment to the job, the ability to work with a varied workforce and who can gain recognition for getting the job done.

Sam progressed from internship to Academy Operations Manager, and such is my belief in his capability and humility, I have had the pleasure of promoting him to my assistant. I hope that this will eventually provide him with the opportunity to head an academy or secure another management position."

Joe Roach, Academy Manager, AFC Bournemouth