Louis Bodrozic
Louis details his journey from applying to Newcastle, to his role at Saracens RFC.
Performance Analyst for Saracens RFC
I graduated from Newcastle in 2021 with a first class degree in Sports and Exercise Science with Placement year. Honestly, coming to Newcastle was a bit of a gamble as I had never visited the city and didn’t attend any open days so had no idea what the course nor the city would be like. My only insight into what studying Sport and Exercise Science at Newcastle would be like was the brief read through of the course synopsis online.
At first, I was a bit apprehensive about what the course would look like and how it would all take shape, but the course is fantastic. It engages, challenges and stimulates interest in all aspects of the sport and exercise science world. The practical aspect of the course it ensures we have a well-rounded understanding and skill set for all the main areas within the field. The staff on the degree are excellent, always making time for you whenever you have any queries. They also ensure you have all the necessary tools and resources to succeed.
The course also offers the opportunity to complete a placement year or a year studying abroad. Between my 2nd and 3rd year of study, I worked as a performance analyst with the professional rugby side, Ealing Trailfinders Rugby Club, in London. As part of the analysis team we were responsible for the daily filming and coding of team/unit training sessions. We created training reports, dashboards and presentations for the coaches based on training and game data. We also undertook opposition analysis, filming and coding games. If you want to work within the sporting industry then I can’t recommended a placement year highly enough. It was invaluable to work alongside elite level athletes. We used the best technology and software available in the industry too. The skill set, opportunities, and connections you gain offer a great stepping stone into a career in the elite sporting world.
Despite not being at university for my final year there was still ample access to online support via staff and degree material to help my personal growth and development in the working environment. The staff throughout my time at Newcastle were exceptional, always extremely helpful and approachable. I now work as a Performance Analyst for Saracens RFC, and although the degree didn’t cover any aspect of analysis, the skills which I learnt and acquired throughout my time studying Sport and Exercise Science at Newcastle have proven to be invaluable.
Louis graduated in 2021 with a BSc in Sports and Exercise Science.
