INSide the LLS fitness and football expos: Real-world experience, Elite networking and career pathways
Last week, we proudly welcomed over 90 ambitious students to our annual Fitness and Football Expos — four action-packed days designed to give aspiring professionals real insight into the sports industry. Every student who attended has ambitions of working in either the fitness or football sector, and these expos provided invaluable hands-on experience, expert advice and powerful networking opportunities.
The LLS Fitness Expo: Training Like a Professional
The Fitness Expo kicked off at the Underground Training Centre (UTS), where students experienced elite-level training environments first-hand. They took part in Hyrox training, strength and conditioning sessions, and professional fitness testing, gaining practical insight into performance training methods used across the industry.
Students also had the opportunity to speak directly with UTS trainers about their career journeys, learning what it takes to succeed in the fitness industry. A standout moment was a Q&A session with former LLS tutor Richard Steele, who shared his expertise in health, nutrition and his experience within competitive bodybuilding. The day concluded with a social media and LinkedIn workshop, highlighting how personal branding and digital presence can help students secure careers in sport and fitness.
On day two, students travelled to Liverpool Hope University for further fitness testing, experiencing university-level facilities and expectations. The afternoon then pushed both physical and mental limits at HotHiit, where students completed an intense UnoMass session in 45-degree heat, focusing on movement and breathwork. Recovery was just as important, finishing with guided ice baths and breathwork — reinforcing the importance of recovery in elite sport.
The LLS Football Expo: Pathways Into the Professional Game
The Football Expo focused on the many career pathways within football. Students heard from professionals at Everton FC, who delivered insights into physiotherapy and sports conditioning careers. They then visited the prestigious AXA Training Centre, home of Liverpool FC’s training facilities.
At the AXA Training Centre, students met staff from Liverpool Academy, including experts in nutrition, player care and coaching. One of the coaches being Flint graduate Rhys. They observed a live coaching session with the Liverpool Academy Under 9s, offering rare behind-the-scenes access to elite youth development.
The experience continued with an evening football tournament involving all 60 attending students, followed by talks from respected figures in the game. Former player and coach Sammy Lee, ex-professional Phil Jevons, and former LLS student turned LLS Tutor and Llandudno First Team Manager Jordan Hadaway shared honest advice and personal experiences from their careers. Students then took part in coaching sessions led by Phil Jevons, Jordan Hadaway and Jay Woods, developing practical skills for both playing and coaching pathways.
Creating Real Opportunities in Sport
The LLS Fitness and Football Expos once again demonstrated our commitment to providing students with real-world experience, professional networking opportunities and direct access to industry leaders. These four incredible days have strengthened ambitions, built confidence and opened doors that many students may never otherwise have accessed.
A huge thank you to everyone who contributed to making this year’s expos such a success. Planning for next year’s LLS Expos is already underway — and we can’t wait to make them even bigger and better.
