Gabriel Akinwande
BSc Sport & Exercise Management 2022
Sports have always been Gabriel Akinwande's passion. As the International Teams Operations Coordinator at Volleyball Ireland, Gabriel combines his love for the game with managing logistics and supporting national squads. With a BSc in Sport & Exercise Management, Gabriel has built a career around what he loves. When he's not immersed in the world of volleyball, Gabriel can be found enjoying new films and TV shows, spending quality time with his fiancée, family, friends, and pets. At the core of everything he does is his Christian faith, which has shaped who he is and keeps him grounded in his every day and in his career.
We asked Gabriel to share a few thoughts on his experience studying Sport & Exercise Management at UCD and asked how it has influenced his career so far. Read on for more!
What led you to studying the BSc in Sport & Exercise Management?
I was led to study Sports and Exercise Management because of my deep love for being involved in sports, whether playing or watching. It felt natural to turn one of my biggest passions and personal strengths into a career, and pursuing a BSc in Sports and Exercise Management was the perfect first step towards achieving this goal.
What was your favourite part of the SEM course?
The highlight of my Sports and Exercise Management course was definitely the Sports Media module. It gave me the chance to create an online blog where I combined two of my biggest passions — fitness and my Christian faith. I also got to integrate my YouTube channel, which I had been posting on just for fun. This module really opened my eyes to the power of different media platforms in promoting sports and fitness, while also pushing me to think outside the box and get more creative in how I share my own passions. It not only sharpened my creative skills but also broadened my career prospects by showing how media can be a game-changer in the sports industry.
What advice would you give to someone considering studying this course?
I have a couple of pieces of advice. First, get involved as much as possible in any sport you're passionate about, and apply what you learn in real-life situations. Make the theory practical! Even if it's a sport you're less familiar with, take the opportunity - sometimes you won’t end up in the sport you want most, but those experiences can be just as valuable. Stay open to every opportunity that comes your way. Also, engage in your lectures as much as possible. Speak up, answer or ask questions, and don’t be shy - those discussions will help you grow in your learning.
What was your experience at UCD like? Any highlights?
I’d describe my time at UCD as fast paced. The course was three years, and with about half of it being online due to the pandemic, it felt like it flew by! However, despite the quick pace, one of the biggest highlights for me was meeting my now fiancée through the UCD Christian Union Society (UCDCU). The sense of community at UCD is incredible, and the variety of societies and clubs allows you to connect with people who share your interests, as well as expanding your experiences by joining new societies and meeting new people. Whether it’s through sports, academics, or something more personal, the community aspect really made my UCD experience unforgettable.
Did you participate in any sports teams while at UCD?
Yes, I was part of UCD Rugby, where I played for the U20 team as well as the second and third senior teams. It was an intense, highly competitive environment that really pushed me to grow as an athlete and as a person. I had hoped to try out for other sports like volleyball, but the pandemic cut that short, and afterwards, I was enjoying a lot of other extra-curricular clubs, societies, and events. Still, being involved with UCD Rugby was a great experience and gave me a chance to compete at a high level while balancing my studies.
What is your current job?
I currently work at Volleyball Ireland as the International Teams Operations Coordinator. As the title suggests, I handle the day-to-day operations of our national squads, which include the senior men’s and women’s teams, U20 and U18 squads, and our regional development centres. My role involves coordinating flights and accommodation for international events, organizing new kit and equipment, booking training facilities with coaches, promoting the visibility of our Irish teams, and providing support for fundraising. In addition to these responsibilities, I’m also driving the development of our online shop and working to grow the Volleyball Ireland YouTube channel by managing live streams - two exciting aspects that go beyond what my title might suggest!
How do you feel the Sport & Exercise Management degree prepared you for this role?
In the job description for my role, having a sports management degree was essential, and it truly laid the foundation for my career. The knowledge I gained from various modules, especially in sports media and event management, has been invaluable in preparing me for this position. Through my studies, I not only gained confidence but also developed key skills in coordinating teams, engaging stakeholders effectively, and managing projects. Additionally, effective communication is crucial in my role, and collaborating on SEM module projects was essential in developing those skills. Group projects tend to get a bad reputation, but I encourage everyone to take advantage of them, as they provide a fantastic opportunity to enhance your communication abilities and learn how to work effectively with others, which is invaluable in any career! These experiences prepared me to communicate clearly and efficiently with colleagues, ensuring we work seamlessly together on various projects. My degree equipped me with practical tools and insights that I apply daily in my work, allowing me to contribute meaningfully to the success of our national squads.
Describe your typical workday.
Describing a typical workday in my role can be a bit tricky since it varies, but here's a glimpse into what it usually looks like. My day typically starts around 9am with a quick check of any emails or messages that came in overnight. Addressing pressing issues can take a couple of hours, depending on what’s urgent. Once that’s sorted, I might prepare our weekly newsletter, which goes out midweek, or fulfill some orders from our online shop.
Depending on the day, I’ll have a weekly team meeting with the rest of Volleyball Ireland, along with one-on-one sessions with my CEO, who I report to. A big part of my day involves supporting our national teams with logistics, such as booking training sessions, accommodation, and flights. I also handle procuring new kits and keeping track of player fees.
I usually take a break around 1 or 2pm before diving back into logistics or promoting our tournaments and fundraising efforts on social media. There’s also shop administration to manage, which involves selling volleyballs, nets, and kits to clubs. On days leading up to an event that I need to live stream, I spend a significant amount of time preparing. I aim to wrap up my day around 5 or 6pm, in order to maintain a good work-life balance. Prioritizing this balance helps me stay focused during working hours, knowing that I have time to unwind and enjoy life outside of work commitments.
You’re involved in a lot of sports – volleyball, tennis, swimming, rugby, to name a few! If you had to, could you pick a favourite and explain why?
As someone who loves all sports, this is honestly a tough question! While I work in volleyball and have recently taken up playing it, my sports background is quite diverse. I’ve coached tennis and padel, taught swimming for over a year, and played rugby since I was in 4th year of secondary school - arguably the sport I’m most competitive in and skilled at. However, if I had to choose just one, I’d probably go with football. It’s called the "Beautiful Game" for a reason! I’ve been playing football since I was in 3rd class in primary school, and I fell in love with it right away. Playing is incredibly fun, and I’m a huge fan of the Premier League. I love watching the matches and following the teams. I’m also quite obsessed with Fantasy Premier League (FPL). If you looked at my screen time data, you’d see the time spent in the FPL app just behind WhatsApp, YouTube, and Instagram! I can’t forget to mention athletics, specifically sprinting, which was the first sport I ever participated in and one I still enjoy watching. Each sport has its unique charm, but football holds a special place in my heart.
What does good health mean to you, in a nutshell?
In a nutshell, good health means individual balance to me. I refer to it as individual balance because health is highly specific to each person - what works for one may not work for another. Factors such as how much you exercise, the intensity and type of exercise, your eating and drinking habits, and the kinds of foods you choose all play a vital role. It's a personal journey that reflects your unique body and lifestyle, so I wouldn't say one size fits all. Of course, there are general guidelines for good health that can serve as helpful benchmarks. For example, drinking at least 2 litres of water daily and focusing on eating good foods are solid recommendations. However, it's also crucial to consider mental health and overall well-being. Balancing physical health with mental health is essential, especially during college when the demands can be overwhelming. Prioritizing self-care, maintaining a work-life balance, and finding time for relaxation and social connections can greatly enhance your overall quality of life. Ultimately, good health includes both physical and mental aspects, creating a harmonious balance that is essential for thriving in all areas of life.
What’s the proudest moment of your career to date?
One of my more recent achievements that I’m particularly proud of is live streaming the first-ever major European volleyball event in Ireland - the U20 Women's CEV European Championship. It’s incredible to think that I was part of such a historic moment, and I never imagined I’d have the opportunity to contribute to something so significant in the sport. Being involved in this event not only highlighted the growth of volleyball in Ireland but also allowed me to showcase our national talent on a European stage.
In your career and/or personal life, who have been the most inspiring or helpful mentors/advisors that you’ve had?
I’d say my older sister has been one of the most inspiring and helpful mentors in my life. She also studied at UCD, earning a degree in Mathematics, and has always been a constant source of support and motivation for me. From helping with my school and college work to giving me lifts to training and matches, she’s been there every step of the way. Her unwavering encouragement and belief in my potential have pushed me to strive for excellence in everything I do, both academically and in sports. I truly appreciate all she has done for me, and her influence has shaped who I am today.
What is life like outside work for you? Tell us a bit more about your current life, hobbies, or what you do to relax?
Outside of work, I keep myself busy with a variety of activities. As a Christian, I make it a priority to attend church on Sundays, and I love getting involved by helping out with Sunday school and leading services through singing. I’ve recently gotten into playing two-player video games, often spending an hour or two competing with my fiancée on my Nintendo Switch. I also love animals. I have a cat named Lulu, who I enjoy spending some time with, relaxing and playing with her. I also have a few goldfish, who are low-maintenance pets, which is perfect for my lifestyle. This season, I’m excited to try something new by playing volleyball for the first time - I’ll be joining a club this year to keep active. Although I haven’t been as consistent with my gym routine lately, I still try to carve out some time for workouts. I love trying new food trends. At the moment, I’ve been into making retro old-fashioned milkshakes, and enjoying it while watching whatever sporting game is on (Premier League, Rugby, etc.). I also make sure to spend time with friends and family. My older sister recently had a baby, and she is an absolute bundle of joy! I try to visit them whenever I can. On top of all this, I’m in the midst of planning my wedding! However, somewhere in all of this, I always find time to take a nap to recharge!
What’s the best piece of advice you’ve ever been given?
The best piece of advice I’ve ever received comes from Galatians 6:10: “Therefore, as we have opportunity, let us do good to all people.” This verse deeply resonates with me and serves as a guiding principle in my life. It inspires me to actively seek out ways to help others, whether it’s through small acts of kindness or supporting colleagues and friends. Living by this message reinforces my commitment to fostering a positive environment, both personally and professionally, and reminds me that we all have the power to make a meaningful difference in each other's lives.
Content added: October 2024