Tom Hitchings

In pursuit of his dream as a Performance Analyst within elite football, Tom is currently undertaking a Studentship at Hartpury University, gaining an MSc in Applied Performance Analysis in Sport whilst working as a Performance Analyst for the Hartpury University FC.

“Working in elite sports and football and in an environment where high performance is expected, all while getting a Master's qualification, allows me to strive in the areas I'm most passionate about.

After my undergraduate degree in Physical Education and Coaching, and my placement with Cheltenham Town FC working in performance analysis, I decided that performance analysis is what I wanted to do as a long-term career. Seeing Hartpury, it was clear to me that the facilities are second to none. I was immediately sold after speaking to the programme leader and working with Hartpury University FC. I haven't looked back.

Hartpury truly has everything you could ask for and more. The software I use for performance analysis is typically used only by top clubs. Doing a studentship whilst studying at Hartpury is a brilliant prospect for anyone looking to get into football, performance analysis, or any other area of sport. My advice to anyone considering this pathway would be whatever you get the opportunity to do, do it. Be a sponge and try as many things as possible; it will all be worthwhile."

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Postgraduate studentships

Our Studentship Scheme enables students to complement postgraduate study with real-world research within a paid position. Develop specialist subject knowledge and skills whilst gaining experience and transferable skills for the world of employment. Graduates have progressed into lecturing, academia, performance analysis, senior coaching and sponsorship roles.