Sixth Form student Isaac recently spent two days gaining valuable work experience at Stockport County Football Club, thanks to Old Pocklingtonian Alex Cowdy (94-97), Head of Football Operations.

Based at both the club's Training Centre and Edgeley Park Stadium, Isaac met staff from across recruitment, scouting, data analysis, commercial operations and community engagement, gaining a real insight into how a professional football club operates both on and off the pitch.

A particular highlight was working with the player recruitment team, where he learnt how clubs identify potential signings using scouting networks, data platforms, apps and specialist software. He also discovered how recruitment decisions are shaped by budgets, squad needs and close collaboration between coaches, analysts and scouts.

Isaac spent time with the club's data analysts, seeing how performance statistics are used to support decision-making and player recruitment. Alongside these football-focused departments, Isaac explored the wider business operations of the club including safeguarding, ticketing, hospitality, community engagement, commercial sales and stadium operations.

The placement helped Isaac appreciate the wide range of careers available within the sports industry and reinforced the importance of gaining experience, building networks and being proactive about future opportunities.

"The experience really showed me that football clubs are businesses as well as sports organisations," Isaac said. "There are so many different roles that contribute to making the club successful."

Reflecting on the experience, Isaac said: “It made me think much more seriously about my UCAS application and future career plans. The quicker you start building experience and making contacts, the better your chances are. Experience can help set you apart."

Alex Cowdy praised Isaac's approach throughout the placement: "He found it very useful and conducted himself really well throughout the two days. He is a polite and engaging young man, and it was a pleasure to welcome him to the club and see his confidence grow."

Thanks go to Alex and everyone at Stockport County for providing Isaac with such an informative and rewarding experience.

Opportunities like these demonstrate the value of the Pock Connects network, helping students benefit from the knowledge and experience of OPs and members of the wider School community as they prepare for life beyond Pocklington.

Whether you’re a student curious about your next steps, or an OP or Pocklington School community member willing to share your expertise, Pock Connects is here to make those conversations happen and build a network that supports every Pocklingtonian at any stage of their career journey. To find out more contact the OP Office, or join the Pock Connects group on LinkedIn.