Srikanth Sanka

Head Coach, International Academy of FC Internazionale Milano, Hong Kong
Graduate Diploma in Sport and Exercise

He enjoys working with young athletes, says Srikanth Sanka who is the head coach at the International Academy of FC Internazionale Milano in Hong Kong.

“Inter is the most decorated youth set-up in Italian football history, with an excellent reputation and historical success. FC Internazionale Milano and Master have teamed up as technical partners to offer the programme at football academies in China and other countries.

“It gives me a great sense of satisfaction to see the young athletes excel and gain confidence in themselves. I see it as a privilege to play a role in their development phase. It pleases me a lot whenever I get to apply the skills I learned during my studies at AUT. I get to practise these skills on a daily basis at work, and they enable me to deliver as a coach while offering me a significant advantage over my colleagues.”

Fond memories
He still has fond memories of his time at AUT, says Srikanth who completed his Graduate Diploma in Sport and Exercise in 2016.

“The combination of coursework offered by AUT through this programme appealed to me greatly. I cherished the time spent at AUT’s library and thoroughly enjoyed using the university sports facilities.”

His studies have immensely benefitted his coaching career.

“I had been working as a football coach for six years in Mumbai before moving to Auckland, and getting to learn about long-term athlete development during my studies changed my perspective towards sports training forever.”

Advice for other students
Srikanth has some great advice for other students considering university study.

“Pick up as many insights and impressions as you can by taking an active part in the coursework and by interacting with your fellow students.”

He wouldn’t hesitate to recommend the programme to other students.

“I’d certainly recommend the programme to others – it provides an excellent platform for sports enthusiasts to obtain theoretical know-how as well as practical skills.”