Why a placement year can transform your career
2 min read
Sports Management BSc (Hons) student Luca, shares how his placement year as Assistant Coach & Commercial Intern at Villarreal CF transformed his academic journey into a professional reality.
Completing a placement year is one of the most powerful ways to enhance your employability, gain real-world experience, and clarify your career goals. My placement year at Villarreal CF has shaped my professional development, strengthened my skills, and confirmed my passion for football and sports management.
Choosing to Do a Placement Year
I decided to pursue a placement year before even starting my Sports Management BSc at Northumbria. From the moment I applied, I knew I didn’t want to miss the opportunity to gain hands-on experience in my chosen field. I think every student should have as many professional experiences related to their field as possible before graduation.
What Was a Typical Day Like at Villarreal CF?
My placement year combined office-based work with hands-on coaching at one of Spain’s top football academies.
My mornings involved (10am - 2pm):
- Communicating with tournament organisers in Asia and South America
- Establishing international partnerships
- Supporting the arrival of new international academy players
- Organising football-related activities and tours of the stadium and facilities
My afternoons involved (3pm - 7pm)
- Assisting with U16 and U19 training sessions
- Supporting head coaches
- Preparing training plans
- Ensuring sessions ran smoothly and efficiently
The Most Valuable Lesson from the Placement Year
One of the most impactful parts of my experience was learning from my mentor, Kristopher O’Hare, a sports psychologist and assistant coach at Villarreal. Through this mentorship, I discovered the importance of psychology in coaching, emotional intelligence in player development and communication and behaviour in training environments. I learned how a simple session can become highly efficient just by choosing the right words, showing the right behaviour, and making subtle adjustments. This insight helped me to understand that realism, reflection, and adaptability are essential in professional sport.
How my Degree Prepared me for Industry Experience
My degree helped me understand the importance of networking, collaboration, and versatility. Early in the degree programme, teachers mentioned the importance of participating in events, connecting with people, asking questions, and being versatile. Whether working in marketing, finance, sport, or leadership, I learned that teamwork and problem-solving are central to professional success.
The Highlight of my Placement Year
Meeting first-team players and coaches was truly a defining moment, I felt like a kid again. That feeling made me realise how deeply our degree and ambitions are rooted in passion. This experience reinforced my motivation to build a career in football and sport.
Career Prospects After a Placement Year
Following my placement, I have grown in confidence, feel more motivated and ready to take the next steps in his career. I’m excited to finish my degree programme and become part of a club where I can contribute to building a meaningful project. While Villarreal CF adds value to my CV, I'm aware of the importance of long-term development, learning from others, and progressing step by step.
Advice for Students Considering a Placement Year
Just go for it, don’t hesitate. A placement year might be the detail that makes all the difference when you start looking for a job. In competitive job markets, real-world experience can set graduates apart.
How to Find a Placement Opportunity
I secured his role through a personal connection and a strong CV, but my advice would be to take initiative.
My tips:
- Identify 2–3 types of roles you’re interested in
- Use your network and professional connections
- Don’t fear rejection — placements are about learning
- Apply through dedicated placement and internship websites
- Just take every opportunity you can and try your luck
Three Words to Describe the Placement Year
Exciting, helpful and rewarding.
My placement year at Villarreal CF demonstrates how industry experience can enhance academic learning, build confidence, and shape career direction. For students considering a placement year, I highly recommend as story it enables you to seize opportunities, develop professional skills, and turn passion into purpose.
