Personal Statement
I am writing to express my strong interest in securing a place for a Sports Psychology/Sports and Exercise Science course for the 2024/2025 academic year. As an aspiring athlete and coach, I am deeply passionate about football, and I believe that this would provide me with the invaluable opportunity to continue pursuing both my academic and athletic goals, while also furthering my commitment to coaching and sports psychology.
My journey in football began at the age of 7 when I joined an all-boys team and I have been dedicated to it ever since. Football has not only been a source of personal enjoyment but also a way for me to develop essential life skills such as discipline, teamwork, perseverance, and leadership.
At the age of 16, I achieved a significant milestone in my football career by playing in the National League of Ireland. This experience not only exposed me to a higher level of competition but also taught me valuable lessons about the commitment and dedication required to excel in the sport.
Currently, at the age of 17, I am proud to be a part of DLR Waves in the Under-19 National League of Ireland. Representing my team on a national level has been an incredible honor and a testament to my hard work and dedication over the years.
In addition to my playing career, I am also dedicated to coaching and mentoring young football enthusiasts. I have completed multiple FAI courses and am currently enrolled in the UEFA C license program. These courses have equipped me with the knowledge and skills necessary to work with young kids at Arthur Griffith Park Football Club's academy. I have witnessed the profound impact that coaching can have on the development of young athletes, not only in terms of their football skills but also in building their character and discipline.
Armed with the knowledge gained from these courses, I aspire to make an even greater impact in the lives of young athletes. I envision using my coaching expertise to nurture and inspire the next generation of football stars, helping them develop not only as players but also as individuals with strong values and a passion for the game.
Furthermore, I am deeply interested in sports psychology and its potential to enhance an athlete's performance. By studying sports psychology, I aim to gain a deeper understanding of the mental aspects of sports, such as motivation, concentration, and resilience. Armed with this knowledge, I hope to help athletes, including myself, reach their full potential on and off the field.
In conclusion, I am excited about the opportunity to be considered for this course I believe that with this course I can further develop my potential as an athlete, coach, and sports psychologist, making a positive impact both within the university and beyond. Thank you for considering my application, and I look forward to the possibility of becoming a valuable member of this program.
Sincerely,
Ava O'Kearney