Sebastian Moyes

Tell us a bit about yourself

I'm 16 and I moved to the country in 2014. I study Fitness and Personal Training, and I play basketball as part of the Newcastle College Eagles Academy.  

How did you hear about Newcastle College? Did you attend any open days before starting, and if so, did you find them useful? 

I came to an open day to see how I could continue playing basketball. I played in the Under 16 Eagles Academy before I came to college, so I was happy to find out I could continue with the Eagles pathway at Newcastle College. I didn't want to do traditional academic subjects, I wanted to do something involving sport because even if basketball doesn’t work out, and I don't go pro in the future, I can work in a profession where I can stay close to it, like working as a personal trainer or a strength and conditioning coach. I'm currently looking to become a physiotherapist, and my course is helping me stay on track for that. 

How do you describe the advice and the support that you've received from the college and your tutors? 

I always get great support from my tutors, If I don't understand something, or I'm not sure how to do something, there's always someone I can turn to for support. My teachers and coaches are great; there's always someone that can help me. 

Did you ever look into any sort of financial support that's available from the college?

I’m in the process of getting my bursary sorted now. Originally, I didn't think I needed it, but then I see how much it has helped some of my friends, so, I've been looking into it. 

What would you say you enjoy most about the course?

I think I enjoy the physical aspects of my course the most. It’s great seeing myself and others getting fitter and stronger, seeing what our bodies are capable of.   

How do you feel the course is benefiting you? 

I have a lot more knowledge now. My understanding of the body and how it works, its overall anatomy, has really improved. Now, if I get an injury, I can work out what’s wrong and share that with my coach and my physio in more depth, so they have a better understanding. 

When did you first join the Eagles Academy? 

I went to the summer trials when I was in year 10 and I was selected for the Under 16s team. I played that for a year then I got picked again this year for the 16-18 College League. 

How often would you say you train a week? 

We train pretty much every day and then we have games on either Saturday or Sunday every week. Sometimes we even have games on both days at the weekend, but that’s rare.  

How has the college helped you with managing your time? 

The college has really helped me a lot. I chose Newcastle College because the course gives me enough free time so that I can train, go to the gym, and have time to relax, all while staying up to date with the course.  

How did you find out about the Eagle Academy in the first place? 

I joined North Shields basketball club because it was right next to my house. It was just once a week for an hour. I was a bit taller and bigger than everyone else so my coach said he thought I should go to the Academy trials 

What's it like to play in the Eagles Vertu Motors Arena? 

It’s really nerve wracking! I still get a bit anxious before every game, no matter how many games I've played but I think of it as my body telling me that I care a lot about how I play.  

What are your ambitions for the future? 

I would say my main ambition is to go pro in basketball. I just really want to be able to make enough money to sustain myself and my family and be able to live comfortably doing what I love.