Richard graduated from the University of Bedfordshire with a BSc (Hons) Sport & Exercise Science and a Master's degree in Sports Performance. During his studies his path into tennis began after he was selected to be a University Tennis Coordinator as part of the Lawn Tennis Association’s University Tennis network.

After graduating, Richard continued his career as a Research Officer at The International Tennis Federation – the world governing body for tennis – and was based in Valencia, Spain, where he oversaw the Federation’s international coach education resources, publications and coaching conferences. He is now an Education Project Manager for the International Tennis Integrity Agency – the body responsible for combatting corruption and doping in all professional tennis globally.

Psychology knowledge is essential in every role out there and has helped me understand people's needs, motives and behaviours. My psychology degree has opened my eyes, helped me at every stage in my life, personally, but also professionally.

My current role requires coaching and sales skills, a psychology background and communication skills. All of them I had a chance to practice during my university time.

The entire university experience has been amazing. I met many people from around the world, mastered the English language, gained incredible work experience within the field, and increased my confidence. These 3 years definitely pushed me out of my comfort zone, but I loved every bit of it.

I am now a football analyst for FIFA, where I collect and interpret data using FIFA’s footballing language to understand trends across men’s, women’s, and youth football. Working alongside technical experts like Steve McClaren and Arsène Wenger, I help produce insights that deepen understanding of the game and enhance both performance and the fan experience. It’s a dream role, built on a strong academic and practical foundation.

My journey began with a HND in Sport and PE at Tresham College before progressing to the University of Bedfordshire for my top-up degree in Applied Sport Science and Coaching. The course gave me access to elite-level facilities and equipment, while units such as work experience, performance coaching, and coaching in context introduced me to the world of performance analysis. Guest lectures, including one from Luton Town Football Club, provided the inspiration and direction I needed to pursue this career. My dissertation, which focused on GPS data collection with the college football academy, gave me real applied experience and confirmed that analysis was the path I wanted to follow.

Bedfordshire’s supportive tutors and career-powered teaching gave me the confidence to specialise further, leading me to complete a Master’s degree in performance analysis. The combination of academic grounding, applied learning, and professional exposure helped me find my pathway in sport. For anyone considering a top-up degree, I would say take every opportunity available, the University of Bedfordshire offers the skills, experiences, and support that can turn ambition into achievement.

One of the main requirements for my job is that you had to have a masters in either a psychological or health field. I use models and theories which I learnt during my degree on a daily basis. One of my favourite techniques which I use is motivational interviewing, it's becoming a second language.