Daniel, a former deputy head boy at Ballymoney High School, achieved the highest possible grade while studying Level 3 Extended Diploma in Sport and Exercise Sciences.
In September, he plans to study a degree in Health, Physical Activity and Sport (Hons) at Stranmillis University College – joining his brother Adam, who is already a final year student there studying a BEd (Hons) degree.
Daniel shared: “At the College’s Open Day, the lecturers outlined modules we would study for the Level 3 Diploma which sold the course to me.”
In addition to studying a wide range of topics which give an overview of the sports industry, students who study the course have an opportunity to achieve recognised coaching qualifications in a variety of sporting disciplines.
These courses include the Irish Football Association (IFA) coaching and Futsal Referee Awards. The programme also includes guest speakers and visits with local sports development programmes.
During his time at the College, Daniel returned to his former school to volunteer in the PE department.
“The course gives a great insight to the sports industry and is a pathway to many different career opportunities. Our assignments were all based on realistic workplace activities and demands, highlighting the importance and relevance of the theory we were being taught in class,” he said.
Due to Covid-19, classes were delivered online for prolonged periods of time, with Daniel saying he really appreciated the guidance and support from his lecturers.
“Lockdown was frustrating, but our lecturers were great. Independent learning was encouraged but support was always there when it was needed. I experienced a steep learning curve, but even with all the challenges we faced due to Covid-19, the course is a great preparation for going on to university,” he explained
A talented footballer, Daniel has played for Coleraine FC and was a member of the College’s award-winning soccer team that made it to the final of the NI Schools Cup 2020. The final, which was scheduled to be played on March 19, 2020, was one of first casualties of the pandemic and the cup was awarded jointly to Northern Regional College and Our Lady and St Patrick’s College.
Looking to the future, when he completes his degree, Daniel hopes to do a Postgraduate Certificate in Education with the long-term goal of becoming a PE teacher.
Congratulating Daniel on his outstanding results, Gregory McGovern, co-ordinator of the Level 3 Extended Diploma in Sport at Coleraine, said: “Daniel is a talented footballer and one of our top students. He is a great ambassador for the College, and I wish him every success in the future.”