FIFA Master Alumni - Where are they now? - Erik Leus
Erik Leus
Current Position: Sports Policy Advisor for the Municipality of Hilversum (since 2022)
Year of Graduation: 2004 (4th Edition)
Nationality: Dutch
What does your current role involve?
In my current role, I am responsible for the municipal policies on getting more people from Hilversum actively involved in sports or obtaining a more active lifestyle. The goal of my work is achieving a physically and mentally more healthy society by using sports. For example, we work together with local partners like schools, health professionals, sports clubs, event organisations and local initiatives in achieving our goals.
We have a unique sports infrastructure in the Netherlands. Most sports are organised by volunteer run sport clubs in basically every sport and for all ages and levels of competition. One of my more substantial tasks is supporting these sports clubs and its volunteers with different programmes, workshops and masterclasses on different themes such as PR & communication, marketing, youth trainer and referee courses. Another example, are the 3x3 basketball communities in Hilversum. Over twenty youngsters finished their "3x3 Unites - leader course” and are now building their own basketball community with weekly basketball gatherings and several tournaments during the year.
How has the FIFA Master helped you in your career?
The FIFA Master helped me greatly in my career. It provided me with a broad understanding of both sport and wider society. It also taught me skills in building a successful network. It gave me a head start in joining the bureau responsible for the organisation of the Baseball World Cup back in 2005.
Also, the international contacts I have made from both my edition (4th) and the other editions of the course have proven their value ever since.
What advice would you give to future students?
Make the investment of applying for the Master in yourself and it will prove its value on multiple levels. In addition, I would like to quote our Professor Manfredi from SDA Bocconi at the time who said above all, “have fun, have fun, have fun”.
