Brendan Boyle

Graduate of our part-time Certificate in Sports Coaching

Donegal – Letterkenny

Brendan Boyle

Graduate of our part-time Certificate in Sports Coaching

Can you tell us your name, job title, where you are from and the course you studied at ATU?

Brendan Boyle, Primary School Teacher in Ardara, Co. Donegal

Can you share your career path to date?

In terms of coaching, I have been involved with my local club, CLG Ard an Rátha, for a number of years, especially since I retired from playing Gaelic football.

What does your current role involve?

I am currently coaching the Ard an Rátha U16 boys team, and I am also involved in coaching the Donegal U14 development squad.

What motivated you to start studying?

I was motivated to start studying because I want to improve as a coach, learn new methods, and better support the players I work with.

Why did you choose this course at ATU?

I chose this course at ATU because I felt it would suit my interests in coaching, built on my coaching experience, and offered practical learning that I could apply in real life. The online format was also important to me because it suited my work-life balance and allowed me to continue with my work and coaching commitments while studying.

How did you find the process of studying in a flexible manner? What elements did you find helpful? Were there elements you found challenging?

I was initially a little apprehensive about returning to study and trying to balance it with other commitments in life, but the experience worked very well overall. The online format added a lot of flexibility to the course, which made it much easier to manage. The lecturers were also very approachable and supportive throughout, which I found extremely helpful.

How did you balance work and study?

Balancing work and study was a bit daunting at first due to my other commitments, but it went smoothly thanks to the flexible online format and the helpful, approachable lecturers.

What advice would you have for anyone considering studying a flexible learning programme?

I would strongly encourage anyone considering this flexible learning programme, especially if they’re interested in improving as a coach. The course was very engaging, informative, and interactive with content that’s applicable across all sports. The interaction between fellow students and lectures was very enjoyable.

In what way has studying with ATU benefitted your career?

The course has made me much more knowledgeable about the different aspects of coaching a team, which in turn has significantly boosted my confidence as a coach.

Did you find that the elements you were studying had practical relevance in your day-to-day role?

Yes, I found the elements I was studying had strong practical relevance in my day-to-day coaching role. The course content directly improved my knowledge of team coaching aspects and boosted my confidence when working with the Ard an Rátha U16 boys and Donegal U14 development squad.