University of Central Lancashire Sports Journalism graduate, Emma Norris, talks about her journey from UCLan to City Football Group, where she works as the Communications Manager for Manchester City Women F.C.
Emma was interested in journalism from a young age and is a huge sports fan, so the BA (Hons) Sports Journalism at the University of Central Lancashire was the perfect way for Emma to combine her two passions in life and study something she enjoyed.
Throughout her studies, Emma worked for various organisations on a freelance basis, including her childhood club Bolton Wanderers F.C. This gave her worthwhile industry experience to get on the career ladder. After graduation, she continued freelancing for the club covering games at weekends whilst working full-time as a copywriter for JJB Sports. Then, due to redundancy, Emma moved on to a similar role at JD Sports.
Emma’s freelance work for Bolton Wanderers F.C. paid off when she was offered a full-time job at the club as a Social Media and Communications Assistant. She then progressed internally to become Media and PR Manager before taking up her next and most recent opportunity at City Football Group.
Emma is currently the Communications Manager for Manchester City Women F.C. and is the main point of contact for all internal and external media requests for Manchester City Women's team.
In her role, Emma liaises with staff and players regarding interviews, press conferences and media appearances, all while gaining as much positive coverage for the team as possible. On matchdays, Emma assists the press throughout the day and facilitates interviews, press conferences and other obligations for the Head Coach and playing squad. A highlight of Emma’s career is when she won Sports Trader’s League One Programme of the Year award in the 2016/17 season.
Reflecting on her time at UCLan and the impact of her experience on her career, Emma said: “Alongside the talented, approachable and experienced tutors, UCLan allowed me to learn all the key aspects of becoming a sports journalist as well as finding some of the best friends that I could ever wish for.”
She added: “It really is true when people say that university can change your life. UCLan definitely did that for me. The support and experience from the tutors, coupled with the numerous opportunities offered in terms of gaining valuable experience outside of university life, has proven to be the catalyst in my route into the industry.”