Sports student plans to use international experience as a springboard to career success

Sport and Exercise Science student Wil Baker, will soon have the honour of representing England internationally in lacrosse.

After impressing his coaches over the last year, including in the European Championships, Wil received the news of a call-up to the Men’s Under 20 World Championship squad which is set to take place in Jeju, Korea in August

His experiences at the European Championships are something that he enjoyed, despite the team not winning the tournament. Wil said: “Getting to meet and compete against people from different countries is such a great experience and one that I never thought I’d have.”

Speaking about how he got involved in lacrosse, Wil added: “My passion for sport started with football really like most of my classmates. However, I wanted something a bit different. A few years ago, a friend of my Dad’s introduced me to lacrosse, and I was hooked immediately.”

Wil quickly discovered that he had a natural talent and started playing competitively soon after.

How this experience helped Wil to thrive at college

Wil’s achievements on the field not only demonstrate his dedication and talent but have also complimented his studies at the College, providing him with valuable teamwork and leadership skills, along with a high level of discipline, which he has applied to his course..

Speaking about his time at College, Wil said: “The course and the College have made me a lot more confident. This has helped me in my sporting adventures."

Speaking about his longer-term sporting ambitions, Wil also works at a local golf club, coaching younger players and eventually sees himself becoming a professional golfer.

Ambokile Bell, course leader for Sport at the College, spoke about Wil’s journey to get to this stage: “Wil began his journey with us as a Level 2 Sport student and has demonstrated outstanding commitment and growth throughout his time at our college. An obvious passion for sport has enabled him to progress onto the Level 3 programme.

“Alongside his academic achievements, Wil has continued to develop his sporting career in lacrosse, a sport not commonly played by his peers. His involvement in lacrosse has brought a unique perspective to classroom discussions and practical sessions.”

Lacrosse is growing in popularity with an ever-increasing number of people playing in schools, colleges, universities and clubs. An estimated 46,000 people are now said to be regular participants.

Studying Sport at The Manchester College gives you the skills and understanding required in the sports industry. There’s still a chance to apply for this September.