The Pool Academy teacher with a key role at the LA28 Paralympics

Between the student volleyball clubs and the annual Sports Day, one Pool Academy teacher has picked up a job on a very different stage. When the Paralympic Games head to the United States in the summer of 2028, he will be part of the team running one of its sports.

Matt Rogers, the school’s Applied Curriculum Lead, has been appointed Assistant Technical Delegate for Sitting Volleyball at LA28.

📷Matt Rogers shares LA28 plans with students

What the role involves

Matt will represent World ParaVolley, the sport’s international federation, and work with the LA28 organising committee to help plan and deliver the Sitting Volleyball competition at the Games.

He has fitted the appointment in around his day job at Pool Academy, and says he is aiming for the best possible conditions for everyone involved, from the players and coaches to spectators and viewers watching around the world.

From London 2012 to the school sports hall

The appointment recognises a long record in international sport and major events. Matt worked as a Sport Manager at London 2012 and at the Birmingham 2022 Commonwealth Games, and spent 10 years running international events for the European Volleyball Confederation (CEV).

World ParaVolley Sport Director Batyr Kadyrbaiuly said: “Matt Rogers brings extensive international experience and a strong understanding of Sitting Volleyball and major event delivery. His experience from previous Games and long-standing contribution to World ParaVolley make him a valuable addition to the LA28 team as Assistant Technical Delegate.”

📷Matt Rogers shares his love of volleyball with students

Volleyball for every year group

Back in Pool, Matt supports the school’s student volleyball clubs and runs volleyball activities for all year groups on Sports Day. Each year he also provides training in volleyball and sitting volleyball for the PE department and for trainee teachers.

“I am thrilled to be able to take on this role around my school commitments and look forward to making the LA28 Games another pinnacle of the sport that I love,” he said. “The Paralympic Games provide a global stage for both sporting performance and event delivery. I am committed to providing the best conditions and experience for players, coaches, spectators, and those watching around the world.”

📷Pool Academy students develop their volleyball skills

A window on jobs in sport

Matt plans to bring the experience back into the classroom. “I look forward to sharing this experience with my students and opening their eyes to the wide range of jobs that exist internationally in sport,” he said.

Tegen Thompson, headteacher at Pool Academy, said: “We are hugely proud of Matt and delighted to see his expertise recognised at this level. His passion for volleyball has made a real difference to our students, and it is fantastic to see him take that experience to the LA28 Games.”

📷Students practise volleyball with Matt Rogers