Just having a casual sit on cloud 9.
Starting the new year off in a fantastic fashion by landing the University Football Activator role for the University of Central Lancashire. My first paid job in football which will run alongside my current volunteer work and studies. To work with UCLan, Lancs FA and the Preston Soccer Centre to development the growth and sustainment of football within and around the university. Not only playing, but to development volunteers and referees, to set up a student management team and publicise the Football Futures Programme.
I'm sure I will wake up from this dream soon.
I don't think I've ever been so nervous over an interview, action plan and phone call. A point at which I fell silent after being offered the job. To my disbelief, excitement, relief and every other feeling you can think of; a smile from ear to ear appeared on my face which still hasn't gone away. After phoning my parents I couldn't think of anything better to do than email a number of people who have played pivotal roles within my FF and football journey so far. The responses have been unbelievable and have made me realise quite the journey I'm on and the impression which I have left in the eyes of others.
My entire application and interview was built around my experiences within the Football Futures Programme. My involvement within football so far and the events I have been to. This along with my action plan got me the job. Once again proving how brilliant the FF programme is.
You might be forgiven for thinking all of my Christmas' have come at once. However, back down on planet earth I am starting to understand the job in hand and the year ahead. With the incentive of a second year in the role, I really want to make the right impression and fulfil the role to its capacity.
Lets just remember, this is the first step on the ladder which will hopefully end at a full time job in football. A ladder which I have secured with all of my experience and now I'm starting the journey to see how high I can climb, [Stu].
Of course there is a long way to go. This year I have really woken up the journey which I am on. What I have already achieved in terms of my coaching and voluntary work, but also I've learnt to enjoy the moment - life is a climb so make the most of the view from each step,[Amber]. I might have plans for the top of the ladder, but for now I need to gain my balance and get comfortable on the first step.
Looking back over the last few years, you'd be forgiven for thinking I've got a typical success story written. All the hours I've put in have counted, personal development as well as professional. The skills I've gained and continue to enhance have allowed me to access amazing opportunities, which have offered me the first step on this ladder.
Lucky? Not a chance. Does hard work pay off? Certainly.
I've still got a buzz running through every bone in my body. After today's meeting I've got plans to make, ideas to think about and a football mystery tour ahead. I'm struggling to see how I will ever think of a job in football as work. Being given a polo shirt and track suit bottoms as uniform, I don't think it will ever be a job.
This is only the first step on the ladder, but a moment in which I will revel for the next few days. Every minute of travelling and getting soaked has counted, you get chances and opportunities when you deserve them [Tina], and as I was told today.. It's about time I got paid for my work in football.
Thank you for everyone's support so far to the stage of getting this job, I will endeavour to keep you updated via my blog and twitter (@sarahnickless). Feels fantastic to see all of my hard work paying off and to know I am being noticed. A long trek ahead, but I'll enjoy every moment; success and learning curve.
