Case Study: Patryk’s Journey
Through Mansfield Town Community Trust’s Sports College programme, Patryk completed two years of BTEC Sports Coaching and Development, developing the skills and confidence to progress to degree-level study at the University of South Wales (USW).
Now entering his second year of the Foundation Degree in Sports Coaching and Development, Patryk has continued to build his knowledge and practical experience. Alongside his studies, he took on the responsibility of assisting the lead coach for the Trust’s CEFA team during his first year. He has also achieved his UEFA C qualification and completed additional training in first aid, safeguarding and introductory football coaching.
One of the biggest challenges Patryk faced was moving from coaching primary school children to working with an age group closer to his own. However, by embracing new situations and pushing himself outside his comfort zone, he has grown in confidence and developed his coaching abilities.
Reflecting on his progress, Patryk said:
“Compared to when I started the course to now I feel like a much more confident person, I feel like I have developed all my skill sets, made personal bonds with new people, gained a variety of new knowledge to help me in my future.”
His studies have also introduced him to new areas of sport, including sports science and research projects, while he achieved good grades throughout his first year, with his highest grade in practical coaching.
Having successfully completed his first year at university, Patryk is now preparing to take the next step in his journey by becoming lead coach for the Trust’s education programme. Alongside this new responsibility, he hopes to achieve higher grades, continue developing his coaching styles and work towards further qualifications, including UEFA B, to improve his future employment prospects.
Patryk also hopes to continue supporting the Trust’s holiday camps, including its Holiday Activities and Food (HAF) provision. His progression demonstrates how combining education with practical experience can help young people build confidence, develop valuable skills and take on greater responsibility within community sport.
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