Cindy Abu

Meet Cindy. Impressed by Herts' sporting reputation, Cindy came to the University to combine her love of sport with the chance to make a positive impact in her career. She is now a Player Care Officer at Brentford FC.

Combining theory with hands-on experience

Cindy wanted to study a degree that combined her love of sport with the chance to pursue a career that made a positive difference. After visiting campus for the first time, she realised that Herts lecturers genuinely cared about students’ success and wellbeing.

Cindy says, 'I enjoyed how practical and applied my course was, and I had opportunities to gain hands-on experience, including on placement, and connect the theory I was being taught to real-life sporting environments.' Her placement was with the academy at Stevenage FC, a team in the third tier of English football based close to Herts.

One of Cindy's favourite memories at Herts was delivering a speech at her graduation, inspiring her peers entering the workforce alongside her. She describes it as 'a proud and unforgettable moment, and the perfect way to close an important chapter in my life.'

Ambition to shape player care nationally

Cindy is now a Player Care Officer at Premier League club Brentford FC, working with their U9 - U16 academy players and supporting the U18s. 'I focus on the holistic development of younger players, helping them grow as footballers and people. This includes life skills education, personal development programmes, safeguarding and wellbeing support.'

She aims to continue developing her player care skills and work in the Premier League to nationally shape academy player care standards.

Outside work, Cindy is passionate about giving back to the community. She hosts netball events, oversees youth activities at her local church, and mentors young people in their personal growth. She explains, 'these experiences keep me grounded and give me fresh perspectives, which feed directly into my job.'

Cindy's advice

Her advice is to 'get involved in as many opportunities as possible, whether that’s placements, volunteering or leadership roles. You'll never know which experience will open the next door.

'Just enjoy the journey and make the most out of the support available at Herts.'