Port Talbot have shown creativity in their approach to reinforce their backroom staff.
The Genero Adran Premier side, who currently sit seventh in the table, have given the opportunity to three Swansea University students to join the Steelwomen as performance analysts.
Rory McKenzie, who is the club’s assistant coach and head analyst, is a former student at Swansea University.
McKenzie expressed that he utilised his links to the successful university to provide opportunities at Victoria Road for James Wright, Rebecca Jones and Lucy Smith
“I studied at Swansea University a few years ago and know the difficulties that students have in gaining experience within the sporting industry," said McKenzie.
"It can be invaluable for them in securing work on completion of their studies.
“I still have a very good relationship with the Sports Science department at Swansea University, who helped advertise the role of a performance analyst with us at Port Talbot.
“We had an overwhelming response in students applying for the role which I think shows that they are crying out for opportunities such as this.
“Due to the number of students applying for the role, we decided to provide three students with work experience placements as opposed to the one that we originally advertised for.
“The students can be a great asset to the coaching staff and team as a whole, and have already helped a great amount with the work that goes on behind the scenes.
“I look forward to mentoring the students for the duration of the season and am intrigued to see what new ideas they can bring to the analysis.”
The work at Port Talbot doesn’t stop there however, as the club recruit for a social media officer to boost their profile across all channels, as well as a player recruitment/junior liaison lead.
The Steelwomen are founding members of Wales’ top-flight, finishing no lower than seventh in all of their campaigns in the league, as well as reaching the semi-final stages multiple times of both the FAW Women’s Cup and League Cup.
With the club playing at Victoria Road, a ground with a capacity of 6,000, the club are offering a fantastic opportunity for those looking for their next step in the game.
If you’d like to be involved in a club with a unique, family-like team spirit, you can contact porttalbotladiesfc@gmail.com.