Sam Cook studied for a BA in Modern History and International Relations at Swansea. He went on to complete his History MA at the University in 2017.
During his time at Swansea, Sam was selected to captain the University’s rugby league team. He also volunteered to coach the women’s rugby programme.
Most recently he has worked within professional sport at Scarlets RFC where his job involves sales and relationship-building, fundamental in the partnership with the University and the rugby club.
What does an Account Manager at the Scarlets do?
My role when I first arrived at the Scarlets a year ago was Business Development. This meant pursuing new commercial sponsors for the club and helping increase commercial revenue. The job has recently moved towards account management which involves working alongside current partners and sponsors of the Scarlets to grow and develop their commercial relationship with the club.
Why work in elite rugby and why the Scarlets?
Rugby has always been a big part of my life and a big passion of mine. Likewise, working within the rugby industry has always been a dream for me. When the opportunity came to apply for a role at the Scarlets it was something that I couldn’t pass up - the club has such a long, proud history and I jumped at the chance to be a part of such a well-established organisation. The job itself is great, and the different scenarios day to day offer a challenging but rewarding work environment.
Why do you think it’s important for the University to partner with local sports clubs?
I think it’s really important. Not only is it good for the overall development of the game and its players, but it helps give the University exposure throughout our region and further afield.
What are your views on players studying at the same time as playing top-flight rugby?
We’re seeing more and more emphasis on player development in the modern professional game and I think education plays a key part in that. The more a player prepares with their studies, the better the chance that individual will have succeeding once their playing career is over.
The University’s excellent TASS (Talented Athlete Scholarship Scheme) gives aspiring athletes the chance to balance sport and studies enabling them to fulfil their potential in both aspects.
Why did you choose to study at Swansea?
I first visited the University on one of the open days. I was immediately taken with the facilities and its location. The history of successful sports teams coming from the University was something that resonated with me and made studying here an easy decision.
Your girlfriend works for the Cardiff Blues. Is there any friendly rivalry?
As I’m sure you can imagine this can create a bit of friendly rivalry, but thankfully nothing too serious. You can imagine things before a Scarlets/Blues game! One of us tends to go a bit quieter after the game, but thankfully Scarlets currently have the bragging rights in our house.
