======= Date Modified 16 49 2010 22:49:52 =======
Evening everyone,

I'd like to pick your brains as I'm in a bit of a problematic situation at the moment. I'm currently studying an MSc in Sports Coaching and looking to graduate next summer. I don't have an undergraduate degree as I was able to get on the MSc due to an ex-professional playing background.

Basically, at present I am in a role with a bank which I hate and have started this course so that I can get back into football which I'm extremely passionate about.

I have a problem though where my CV will show a financial services background and not any relevant sporting experience. Now, I have been offered a voluntary internship at a professional club but my employer is reluctant to allow me flexible working to accomodate this. Would you all agree that this experience I have been offered is invaluable? I am considering going off sick and recieving full pay whilst I do this internship. What I'd like to know is, would long-term sick in a financial position really bother a potential employer in the sports industry?

Also, I am looking to apply for a funded Phd for next September, can anyone tell me what typical grade I need to be achieving in my masters to be able to achieve funding? And do you think I'd even be considered without an undergraduate degree?

Thanks all for taking time to read this. Look forward to the responses.

RC7

:-)