The sports department at Leigh College hosted an exciting day long sports careers event for its students and local high school pupils which attracted a plethora of high calibre sports professionals.

They brought together a host of exciting guest speakers from a range of professional sporting backgrounds, all offering a unique insight into their backgrounds and job roles.

The online event was designed for students to learn about different career pathways, find out about what each role involves and hear real life experiences from the speakers.

Included in the talks were Leigh Centurions owner, Derek Beaumont and Assistant Coach, Mickey Higham as well as professional sports therapists, sports analysts and the Head of Education and Quality from the local sports coaching sector.

Derek Beaumont gave a fascinating careers talk journeying through his business experiences. He focused on what motivates him, what makes a team successful and the importance of analysing the market place.

He also shared his goals and ambitions for Leigh Centurions saying: “We hope to apply for a Super League academy so that we can link junior clubs and the college together so we produce our own players from within the town. This is my vision and a long term investment which would hopefully bring success in the future.”

Mickey Higham talked to students about his career in rugby league and playing at international level as well as setting up his personal training business.

He highlighted that having a good work effort was one of the main reasons to a successful career. Mickey fielded a wide range of questions from our students including what motivates him, the biggest challenges he has faced in rugby and the skills/qualities needed to work at his gym.

Blackburn Rovers Ladies Lead Sports Therapist, Jakub Galis talked about his main responsibilities and provided an insight into what a typical training day looks like. He also explained different pathways available in the industry.

Head of Department Sport and Public Services, Gareth Hayes added: “The event offered students an inspiring and interesting outlook on the different career pathways they can progress into once they have finished their education.

“I can’t thank the guest speakers enough for providing an honest insight into what it takes to be successful. The messages around hard work, resilience and networking is something the students can aspire too and will develop the next generation of coaches, therapists and business owners.”

There was also the possibility of work experience opportunities for the learners (when lockdown rules permit) courtesy of Cathy Robinson, Wigan School Games manager.

She explained what the organisation does to get young people active in sports and competition across the borough as well as highlighting the skills required for her particular role.

Applications for sports courses, based at the Centre of Excellence in Sport at Leigh College are open for school leavers.