Lori-Louise Boyton

Sport and Leisure Management BA (Hons)

I chose to study Sport and Leisure Management BA (Hons) because I liked the idea of learning more about the sport industry. I did look at similar courses elsewhere but when I visited the open day at Chelsea School I felt very welcome and knew instantly I was supposed to be a student there. The University of Brighton was originally my second choice and I only attended the open day once I had accepted the offer. A slight risk I know, but it paid off and I believe things happen for a reason. The biggest appeal about the course at Chelsea School was the three month work placement in year two.

The placement really opened my eyes to what opportunities are out there. I wanted a placement that would be specific to my future career and that is football. I worked really hard at finding a placement within football at a top London football club. It was a struggle due to the current economic climate, however once I had been offered the position at Crystal Palace football club it was a chance for me to shine and to show my enthusiasm.

I have many highlights from the placement as the experience was so positive. To name a few, The Player of the Year Awards, Going to Soccer AM, working on match days and organising a children’s football tournament.

I can honestly say I have learnt so much from my time at the club. My time was split into working with two different areas of the club. My main role was for the clubs charity, the CPFC Foundation and my other role supporting the marketing and corporate team. I also worked on match days as I wanted to gain as much experience as possible. Match days for me is what its all about, I get such a buzz from being there on the day and being a part of the huge atmosphere which is created. As well as learning about the club, the placement gave me a great insight into the football industry as a whole.

I already knew before the placement that I wanted to work in football. I wanted to further my knowledge of the industry and wanted to use the placement as key experience which will set me up for my future career. By working at Crystal Palace football club it has confirmed what I already thought, working in football is definitely for me.

I have been offered a summer job at the club which I am more than delighted at. I am excited to really push myself and gain more experience working at a Championship football club. My role for the club is a new one for the Foundation and allows me to be creative. My role is media and marketing officer for the CPFC Foundation. I have so many ideas and cannot wait to put them into action. The entire placement experience has been everything I hoped for and more.