George’s journey at SETU turned ambition into achievement, combining top-level coaching with academic excellence for an exceptional coaching career from SETU to Leeds United and Portsmouth FC.
From daily training on the pitch to academic success in the classroom, George’s journey at SETU from the Bachelor of Arts (Hons) in Sports Management and Coaching (Football), Bachelor of Science (Hons) in Sport and Exercise Science to the Master of Science in Strength and Conditioning.
George knew he was stepping into something unique. The course offered the perfect blend of high-performance training with a foundation in academic theory. The SETU learning environment mirrored a professional football academy, meaning students could get real-world experience while earning a degree.
“I always knew I wanted to work in football”, George recalls. “This was the only course of its kind at the time in Ireland.”
Turning setbacks into opportunities
George’s first application to the programme was unsuccessful, but his determination pushed him to try again. After a year at Coláiste Ide Finglas, he reapplied and earned his place through a mix of on-field sessions, and a one-to-one interview.
Experiential learning and professional development
George thrived in SETU, where access to top-level facilities and opportunities in the real-world enriched his learning. Describing his favourite parts of the course, George said, “The structure allowed me to complete my coaching badges alongside my studies, and I was trained daily like a professional.” The inclusion of rugby and GAA into the academic course further strengthened George’s confidence and skills for a career in football.
“I found my experience at SETU highly rewarding and would readily endorse it to prospective students.”
George Bell.
George said, “I developed my analytical skills through video analysis work with FAI international teams, along with working on sports tours to the UK. I also got to experience coaching in schools and clubs, and got to provide support to ‘Football’s Next Star’ and Special Olympics Ireland initiatives.”
“The friendships, the mix of theory and practice, and the professional environment made my time at SETU unforgettable,” George remarked. “Looking back, the experience completely changed the direction of my career,” he concluded.
Advancing in the Game
George noted that the experience gained during his studies formed the basis of his professional career. After graduating in 2017, he spent a year with Bray Wanderers, followed by seven years at Leeds United and almost two years at Portsmouth FC.
“The skills acquired and professional networks established contributed to my current position at Portsmouth FC.”
George Bell.
Foundations for success
George’s progression from student to professional coach exemplifies the chances SETU offers driven students. His time at SETU was a strong academic experience and laid the ground for his professional career.
