Behind the scenes with YCCC: Sport Management students join pre-season launch

A competition was run for students in the Sport Business Management subject group. Five students—Erin Morris, Lauren Manley, Ellis Hanger, Harry Doyle, and Maxim Noronha all won seats at the exclusive pre-season launch and got to experience the inner workings of a professional sports organisation first-hand.

The students had the chance to meet players like Ben Coad and George Hill, who offered personal insights into the life of a professional cricketer and reflected on the club’s culture of resilience and growth. These candid conversations gave students a closer look at what it means to succeed both on and off the field.

From discussions on leadership strategies to financial planning and operational management, the event brought textbook theory to life. “The leadership approach of focusing on long-term success really echoed what we’ve been studying,” said one student.

Students learned about the club’s involvement in The Hundred and future collaborations with the Sunrisers franchise, both of which have the potential to elevate the club’s commercial footprint. “This event helped me realise how diverse careers in sport can be,” one student noted. “It's not just about being a player or coach, there are exciting roles in operations, marketing, and beyond.”

Many students said mentioned the speech from Chief Executive Sanjay Patel as their standout moment. Patel shared insights into the club’s strengthened financial position, thanks in part to new investment from IPL partners. His focus on sustainability and long-term growth left a lasting impressions on them. 

The event left a lasting impact on the students', “Opportunities like this are invaluable,” said one student. “They expose you to real-world challenges and solutions in sport management. My advice: network, be open-minded, and stay passionate.”

The YCCC Season Preview Lunch wasn’t just a celebration of a new season, it was a glimpse into the exciting future of cricket in Yorkshire and an unforgettable learning opportunity for the next generation of sport professionals. 

Dr Jo Clarke, Senior Lecturer in Sport Business Management, who accompanied the students to the event said, “Attending the YCCC Pre-Season Launch was a fantastic opportunity for our students to experience the professionalism and energy of a top-tier sporting organisation. Their curiosity, enthusiasm, and engagement with industry professionals were outstanding. With over 250 guests, including executives, sponsors, and players, this event provided a unique learning experience that will undoubtedly shape their future careers in sport management.”