Cup final glory for Huddersfield graduates and students

Three people with cup Simon Dent (left) and Luke Greaves (right) with their hands on the Challenge Cup. Photo:Luke Greaves

It was a Challenge Cup Final day to remember at Wembley for graduates and current students of the University of Huddersfield’s Sports Journalism course.

Ten were working at rugby league’s traditional showpiece, for media companies including the BBC, ITV, Daily Mirror and League Express, while a Broadcast Journalism graduate covered the event for Radio Yorkshire.

But perhaps the best experience of all went to 2016 graduate Simon Dent and Year 2 student Luke Greaves, who got their hands on the trophy as part of the media team at winners Hull FC, who beat Wigan 18-14 to retain the cup.

Luke also co-hosted the club’s homecoming party in front of an estimated 25,000 fans with another Huddersfield graduate, James Clark.

He said: “These three days have been absolutely unbelievable. It’s moments like these that motivate me to put as much effort in. I’m coming back next month with some real experiences!”

Luke added: “Going on the pitch at Wembley, back into the dressing rooms, staying in the team hotel, and co-hosting the homecoming. It has been an experience I could only have dreamed of. There’s a Grand Final at Old Trafford on the horizon too.”

Professional work experience is an essential part of the practical journalism courses at the University of Huddersfield, and the BA (Hons) Sports Journalism course has a long association with rugby league.

Employability from Sports Journalism is consistently high, with the latest official statistics putting the figure at 95% of graduates in work or further study within six months of completing the course.