Lynsey Edwards

Why Teesside University?

I grew up locally and knew about the University. I actually went to another university for a week before realising that I wanted to study at home and, to be honest, the Teesside University course sounded better. And I loved every minute of being at Teesside.

What were the highlights?

I was involved in the hockey club so had a great social experience with a sports team. And it led to me volunteering in sport which helped my career as well.

I also had a few opportunities to attend national conferences and events to present my work, including BASES Student Conference.

The University has such a wide range of extra-curriculum opportunities, which are really important to set you apart from other graduates. I definitely feel I took advantage of them and they helped!

How has uni helped prepare you?

I developed invaluable transferable skills through my undergraduate and master’s degrees – communication skills, relationship management and organising myself.

I had two internships with Teesside Sport, one supporting student volunteering and the other managing the focus sports. These two roles gave me the appetite to work in sports for development and the practical skills to help me get my first role at Badminton England.

When I started my course, I didn't know about sports for development or the sports charity sector and thought that elite sport was the only real career opportunity. I planned to work in elite sport as a strength and conditioning coach, but I enjoyed my internships so much that I went straight into sports for development.

What next?

I've been at Middlesbrough FC Foundation for a year now, so I still have a lot of ambitions for this role. It’s an exciting time with a new strategy, facility projects and continued work across the region.

It's a privilege to be in this role and able to give back to my home community.

Would you recommend Teesside Uni?

Yes definitely, the University offers so much through its courses – a broad range of topics, transferable skills and wider opportunities linked to the course. You can also benefit from volunteering, sport and extra-curricular activities to enhance your experience and skillset.

The University is an anchor across Teesside, connected to such a wide range of partners with so many other industry opportunities to get involved with.



* Course now known as BSc (Hons) Sport and Exercise Science