Mini athletics, big ambitions!

Eric Thogo, 20, studied sport at the College, a passion he has had since he was young.  As part of the course, he got to spend time in Spain, getting to see how other cultures see sport, and taking part in coaching sessions.  Although at the time he didn’t think anything of it, a few months after his return he began considering his career options and realised that coaching was something that he would like to pursue.  

Thanks to the links Barking & Dagenham College’s sports department has with Mini Athletics, the College put forward Eric’s name when they heard the company was looking for more coaches.  Mini Athletics runs weekly sessions for children aged 2-7 to encourage participation of sports and additionally build confidence, social and cognitive skills.  

Eric was asked to attend one of their classes to see how he would get on.  It soon became clear that Eric had what it takes to become a coach and he was offered a job with the company.  A month after joining as an assistant coach, Eric is now a Lead Coach and enjoying every minute!  

As Eric explains: “My sports course gave me experience in all areas of sport, not just playing it, but also other possible career opportunities, like coaching.  Although I never went to college thinking coaching was what I wanted to do, I really love it. I’m looking forward to continuing my career as a coach and seeing where it takes me!”  

Errol Parker, Head of Sport at Barking & Dagenham College added: “It’s fantastic to see that Eric is enjoying his new role as a coach. It’s a great opportunity for him and one I’m sure he will be fantastic at.    

“As a College we are really keen to ensure that our students are given every opportunity to gain not only experience of different career sectors but also access to real job opportunities. This is just one example of that and we have great plans for more employment opportunities for September 2021!”