With a keen interest in performance analysis, Matt chose to study Sport and Exercise Science at Loughborough College because of its proximity to home and its reputation for excellence in this field.

During his time at Loughborough, Matt was able to continue his development in performance analysis and meet like-minded individuals who were currently working or looking to work in elite and professional sport. Being one of the older members on the course, Matt found that he was able to help his fellow students with skills he had already acquired, and it also helped him become a better teacher for students in his current role when training.

He explains, “The Performance Analysis module on the course was the main reason I was so keen to study at Loughborough. It gave me the opportunity to study Performance Analysis further having had a taste of it at university previously.”

Harland was drawn to the program because of his passion for sports and his desire to understand the data behind it. He adds, “Studying at Loughborough College allowed me to pursue my passion”.

“Provided me with the tools needed to succeed”

Matt’s aspirations for the future lie in working in the Premiership, whether that is with his current club Doncaster or someone else. He believes that the role of performance analysis is changing in sport, with more and more analysts becoming coaches and vice versa, so the opportunities are endless.

Looking back on his time at Loughborough College, Matt found the small groups for specific modules much easier for learning and asking questions. The tutors were informative, welcoming, and relatable, allowing him to have the best experience possible. Matt believes that studying at Loughborough gave him access to Sportscode and other technology within sport to help progress his career.

If you are considering studying at Loughborough College, Matt’s advice is to definitely do it. He believes that it’s a great way to meet people who will help you progress in the future and that you get what you put into it – others will help you if you help them. Matt’s Loughborough College experience provided him with the tools needed to succeed and develop, and he is proof that with hard work, dedication, and the right education, anything is possible.