What sport do you take part in?
Handball
My favourite thing about studying at Newcastle and Stafford Colleges Group is how I can apply what’s being taught into my own life, for example learning about nutrition and using that to improve my performance.
Michael Kusi, Level 3 BTEC National Foundation Diploma in Sport student
How and when did you first get into it?
I got into handball in Year 10 as an after-school club through BTEC Sport, as it was one of my GCSE options. This was in 2022.
What level are you currently competing at?
I competed at national level for the U19s National Academy Boys North under the England Handball Talent Pathway, and at league level for North East Manchester Hawks. I am now looking to start the 26/27 season playing for Birmingham Bisons.
What is your best sporting achievement?
My best sporting achievement so far is playing with the North East Manchester Hawks senior men’s team at the age of 17.
Have you competed in any competitions and what were the results? Or do you have any upcoming events?
I competed in the England Handball Premier League Men’s Final 4, which is a tournament where the highest performing teams from the North and South leagues play against each other for medals and trophies. We played against Islington and Nottingham, and after some challenging matches, we came 4th place.
What are you working towards at the moment?
Right now, I’m working on gaining my confidence back and being resilient when playing handball, as there were setbacks last season. It’s always important to be resilient and not give up.
What is your favourite thing about your sport?
My favourite thing about handball is the mental side of the game. It really tests your ability to play under pressure and ability to stay focused.
What is one thing about your sport that would surprise people?
A lot of people would be surprised by how much contact there is in handball. It’s a very physical sport.
Who inspires you? Do you have a sporting icon or someone in life you look up to?
My Year 10 handball coach Rebecca Barnes has inspired me the most. She motivated and pushed me to become who I am today which I’m grateful for.
What is your favourite memory from your sporting career so far?
My favourite memory is scoring my first ever goal for North East Manchester Hawks, it was spectacular.
What is your favourite thing about studying at NSCG?
My favourite thing about studying at Newcastle and Stafford Colleges Group is how I can apply what’s being taught into my own life, for example learning about nutrition and using that to improve my performance.
What are your plans for life after college?
After college I plan to go to university and study a PE coaching degree while continuing to work towards a career in sport and SEND, helping to create an inclusive environment for people of all abilities.
What are your long-term career goals?
My long-term goal is to coach people of all abilities and potentially run my own sports business in the future.
How has NSCG helped you with your sport?
NSCG has helped me by giving me the flexibility to balance my sporting commitments with my studies, as well as opportunities such as the True Athlete Scholarship Scheme.
What advice would you give to someone their first day at NSCG?
My advice would be To be yourself, not letting what anyone says put you down, and to make most of the opportunities you get because they’re there for a reason. Always aim high.
Any extra information that you’d like to share?
I’m have successfully completed the Diploma in Sporting Excellence (DiSE) programme with Loughborough College, delivered through England Handball, which supports my development both academically and as an athlete while preparing me for a future career in sport.