This year sportH.E was invtied back to BUCS conference to record another live episode. In this special edition, I was joined on stage by 4 inspiring students who shared their insights and advice on how to build a great sporting experience.

We got to hear their views on our sector, the work they are doing within their own Universities and what they would do if they were a Director of Sport or BUCS CEO for a day!

It was a truly fascinating dive into the student experience. We hear about the challenges of cost, opportunity and equality of access. However, more importantly, we get to witness the passion, commitment and boldness of young people to find solutions, start new initiatives, challenge convention and embrace the amazing power of sport and physical activity.

Through their own words, they reinforced that whilst our sector faces some tremendous challenges, little else can create the same sense of belonging, break down barriers, develop life skills, tackle loneliness and improve learning.

In this conversation, Phil Malatesta shares his unique journey into the world of H.E sport, from an original apprenticeship, then stints in the private sector, and a number of stops both in the University and Student Union side of H.E. We discuss his career path and the resilience and tenacity this has instilled in him.

We also get the opportunity to discuss the recent developments at the University of Southampton, including new facilities and initiatives aimed at increasing student participation and improving the overall experience. He also touches on the importance of collaboration with student unions and local organizations, as well as the value of co-designing programs with students to ensure their needs are met.

Throughout the discussion, Phil offers valuable insights and advice for aspiring professionals in the field of higher education sport and recommends 'The Geopolitical Economy of Sport' by Simon Chadwick.

In this conversation, Danielle Farrell shares her journey from growing up in Ireland and pursuing a career in sports education to becoming the Head of Sport at UA92. She discusses the challenges and opportunities she faced along the way, including her experiences as a sabbatical officer and the importance of student voice in higher education. Danielle highlights the unique approach of UA92, emphasizing its commitment to character development and flexible learning structures that cater to diverse student needs. The conversation also touches on the impact of sports on personal development and the importance of community in fostering connections among students. We explore Danielle's journey in building a sports program at UA92, highlighting the challenges and successes of integrating new students, establishing a unique brand, and fostering a thriving sports community. She reflects on the growth of the institution, the importance of networking, and the role of the Class of 92 in supporting the university's mission.

In this conversation, Mark Munro, Director of Sport & Active Health at the University of Edinburgh shares his extensive journey in sports management, detailing his experiences from grassroots development to high-level governance in athletics. He discusses the challenges faced during his tenure at UK Athletics, including financial instability and leadership changes, and reflects on the importance of collaboration between national governing bodies and higher education institutions.

Mark highlights the economic and soicla impact study they have recently completed and the need for effective communication and partnerships to enhance the sector's impact.

We talk about the importance of collaboration between various departments, the value of sport in education, and the need for clear communication and integration within the university's strategy. Mark also highlights the challenges faced in the sports sector, the significance of measuring the impact of sport, and the importance of mentorship and personal growth. He concludes with valuable advice for emerging professionals in the field.

Mark recommends Finding Ultra by Rich Roll as a source of inspiration.

In this conversation, Keith Morris, Director of Sport at the University of York, shares his journey in sport management, detailing his experiences from his early career. He discusses the challenges faced in higher education sport, the importance of building a constructive culture, and the need for flexibility in managing diverse teams. Keith emphasizes the significance of passion in sport, the necessity of clear communication, and the lessons learned from past mistakes in leadership.

We also discuss the importance of navigating difficult conversations, self-reflection, and the need for effective management within university sport. We explore the significance of collaboration between departments, building relationships with student leaders, and the lessons learned from the COVID-19 pandemic.

Lastly, Keith shares insights on the influences that have shaped his perspective and offers valuable advice for aspiring sports professionals, emphasizing the importance of integrity, understanding one's role, and fostering a positive environment.

Keith recommends 'Surrounded by Idiots' by Thomas Erikson.

In this conversation, Vicky Ackerley shares her journey from a passionate athlete to the Director of Residences and Sport at the University of Manchester. We discuss the evolution of sport education, the challenges of managing a broad portfolio that includes both sports and residences, and the importance of advocating for the value of sport in higher education.

Vicky emphasises the need for a shift in mindset regarding health and fitness, highlighting the long-term benefits of physical activity and the role universities play in fostering a culture of health among students. We also explore the future of H.E sport, addressing the volatile environment and the need for continued advocacy, emphasising the need for recognition of higher education sport and the challenges faced in the sector.

Vicky refers to the Harvard paper on Level 5 Leadership, which you can find here: https://hbr.org/2001/01/level-5-leadership-the-triumph-of-humility-and-fierce-resolve-2

In this conversation, I had the immense pleasure of being joined by Paul Bedford from Retention Guru to discuss all things health & fitness, sales and retention. Paul shares his extensive background in leisure and fitness, emphasizing the need for support for new exercisers and the common mistakes made by health clubs.

We explore the balance between sales and retention, the significance of member engagement, and the challenges posed by budget gyms. Paul also provides insights on measuring retention effectively and the unique value that university facilities can offer to students. I also quiz Paul on his thoughts on the emerging trends in the fitness industry, emphasizing the importance of strength training and the concept of 'active healthcare' as a proactive approach to wellness.

We discuss the need for fitness professionals to engage with healthcare providers and the significance of managing anxiety for higher-education students. Paul also shares valuable advice for aspiring sports and leisure professionals, focusing on the importance of mentorship, layered learning, and time management.

Paul recommends the following podcasts for his own inspiration:

Future of Fitness - Eric Malzone

Lifts - Matthew Januszeck

You can find more information about Paul and his work on retention by checking out - https://www.retentionguru.com/

In this conversation, Euan Smith shares his career journey to the Director of Sport at the University of Glasgow. He discusses his ambition, the importance of understanding people in sport, and the impact of coaching on personal and professional development. Euan emphasizes the significance of business coaching as a leadership tool and reflects on his own experiences with coaching, highlighting the importance of reaching out for support and the fulfillment derived from helping others. Euan shares his journey through coaching education, the challenges he faced balancing responsibilities, and the importance of support from colleagues and mentors.

He discusses valuable lessons learned from coaching experiences, the significance of visualization in achieving goals, and the resources available for aspiring coaches. Euan reflects on the concept of life energy, emphasizing the need for balance and self-care in a demanding career. He concludes with advice for those entering the coaching field, highlighting the importance of hard work, celebrating successes, and maintaining kindness in professional relationships.

We discuss a number of resources in this episode, and you can find more information below:

The Coaching Habit - Michael Bungay Stanier

Power of Moments - Dan & Chip Heath

Coaching for Leaders Podcast - Hosted by Dave Stachowiak

In this conversation, Gavin Ward, a senior lecturer in physical education at the University of Wolverhampton, discusses his research on race and equality in sport, particularly focusing on the experiences of non-white participants in the BUCS ecosystem. The conversation delves into the complexities of racial terminology, the findings of the research, and the implications for H.E.

Gavin emphasizes the importance of creating spaces for dialogue about race and the need for protocols to address racial abuse in sports settings. We discuss the complexities of addressing abuse in sports, the importance of data and accountability in universities, and the need for mediation and social justice. The conversation also touches on the power of sport in creating a sense of belonging and the significance of understanding values and behaviors in sports. Finally, Gavin offers advice for aspiring sports professionals and reflects on the importance of self-awareness regarding identity and biases.

Gavin recommends Winning by Clive Woodward as an inspirational resource.

You can find more information on the Race & Equality research and working group, here: https://www.bucs.org.uk/resources-page/race-and-equality-research.html

In this conversation, Phil shares his diverse career journey leading to his role as Director of Sport at the University of East Anglia. He discusses his experiences in Saudi Arabia, his early career in the private leisure sector and the nuances of the Director of Sport role. Phil emphasizes the significance of teamwork and the transferable skills between sports management and other sectors, while also reflecting on personal development and lessons learned throughout his career. We take a specific deep dive into Phil's reflections on leadership throughout his career, emphasizing the importance of adaptability, emotional intelligence, and team dynamics.

Phil recommends the following resources:

The Happiness Advantage, Shawn Achor

No rule Rules: Netflix and the Culture of Reinvention, Reed Hastings, Erin Meyer

You can find more information on the 'Value of Sport' work here: https://www.bucs.org.uk/resources-page/demonstrating-the-value-of-higher-education-sport.html