Ian Buckman, Brighton and Hove Albion Academy Manager, has graduated from UCLan
A sports coach who oversees the development of young Premier League footballers has graduated from the University of Central Lancashire (UCLan).
Ian Buckman, the Academy Manager at Brighton & Hove Albion Football Club, swapped his sports kit for an academic cap and gown after completing his MSc in Elite Coaching Practice.
The 47-year-old, who has held five coaching positions during his 10 years with the south coast club, said: “I'm very proud to have completed my Masters. Coaching and youth development have been passions of mine, and it has been an incredible learning opportunity.
“I have really valued the experience as I know that I will continue to use my new knowledge as I grow throughout my career.”
Ian joined the Seagulls from Portsmouth Football Club in May 2013 and during that time he has worked with hundreds of players including Arsenal’s right back Ben White, Irish international striker Evan Ferguson and young midfielder Jack Hinshelwood.
"I'm very proud to have completed my Masters. Coaching and youth development have been passions of mine, and it has been an incredible learning opportunity"
— UCLan graduate Ian Buckman, the Academy Manager at Brighton & Hove Albion Football Club
The dad-of-one started on the UCLan course around the same time as he was appointed Head of Academy Coaching in February 2019.
In his busy role, he oversees the under 7s through to the under 21s academy and subsequent multidisciplinary teams.
The former Ryde High School pupil, from High Salvington, said: “It was a challenge to invest as much time as possible across the duration of the course as I have a very demanding and time-consuming role, where no week is the same and often includes evening and weekend work, but it’s been worth it.
“I have always worked in youth development and this course provided an ideal opportunity to explore my craft. It has had a positive impact on my career and has encouraged me to continue to develop my expertise in this field. I have become more self-aware, reflective and able to apply critical thinking within my work at the club.”
Ian, who was one of nearly 2,500 students who took to the graduation stage in Preston, added: “I value and appreciate the opportunity that UCLan has provided for me. The support has been invaluable and it has given me the platform to complete this stage of my journey.”
