United Through Sport was delighted to attend Loughborough University Talk Sport 2026, one of the UK’s leading institutions for sport, and it was an inspiring day of connection, conversation, and opportunity.
Representing United Through Sport was Lauren Pitcaithly, joined by current Loughborough students and UTS student ambassadors Annabelle Satow, Alana Crooks, and Josh Bryan. Together, the team spoke with students and staff from a wide range of sporting and academic backgrounds, all eager to learn more about how sport can be used as a powerful tool for social impact overseas.
Lauren shared how her own journey shaped her both personally and professionally, she first volunteered with UTS in South Africa during her gap year, before returning as a Volunteer Programme Coordinator and now works with the United Through Sport UK team, alongside her studies. Lauren described the programme as “The perfect balance of culture, personal growth, impactful coaching, and unforgettable travel, alongside an amazing group of like-minded people.” Her story resonated strongly with students who were exploring meaningful ways to combine sport, travel, and purpose.
Engaging with Students
From the moment the event began, there was a steady flow of students visiting the United Through Sport stand. Many were keen to hear first-hand what it is like to take part in an international placement, while others were curious about how volunteering abroad could support their academic studies and future careers. The team shared personal experiences, answered questions, and offered guidance on how students can turn their passion for sport into meaningful community impact.
Throughout the day, the team had the opportunity to share the mission of United Through Sport and showcase how students can gain hands-on experience through our international coaching and community development programmes. These placements allow volunteers to work alongside local coaches and professionals, delivering structured sports sessions while also supporting wider education and youth development initiatives. For many students, this was their first introduction to how sport can be used to address social challenges and create lasting change.
The Benefits of Volunteering Abroad
The event also provided a powerful platform to highlight the personal and professional benefits of volunteering abroad. From developing leadership and communication skills to gaining practical coaching experience, global awareness, and confidence, international placements offer far more than just time overseas.
Students from a broad range of disciplines engaged with the team, including athletes, coaches, and those studying sports management, physiotherapy, and psychology – a perfect fit to United Through Sport’s placement opportunities. It was fantastic to meet individuals from so many different backgrounds who were united by a shared interest in using sport for good
Volunteer Highlights
The presence of student ambassadors, who have all experienced our programmes first-hand, added a valuable and authentic perspective to the day. Annabelle Satow shared her experience of completing a three-month placement in South Africa, describing it as “the best time ever.”
Alana Crooks and Josh Bryan both completed placements in Saint Lucia, one year apart. Alana travelled as part of her psychology elective and shared one of her standout highlights, training and playing with and against the Saint Lucia national netball team, which she described as “an amazing but truly humbling experience.”
Josh, who volunteered most recently, was a driving force behind the success of Saint Lucia’s Miles for Smiles fundraising swim, helping to raise vital funds to support local youth and community projects.
Many students expressed strong interest in exploring opportunities to join programmes in Ghana, Saint Lucia, South Africa, and beyond.
Thank you to Loughborough University and Talk Sport
We would like to thank Loughborough University for hosting such a well-organised and engaging event and for creating space for meaningful conversations between students, staff, and organisations.
United Through Sport looks forward to welcoming many of the students we met into our global community and supporting them as they begin their own journeys in sport for social impact.