Matthew Dudley, who graduates with a first-class degree, came to Leeds Trinity to pursue his passion for radio and sports journalism. But while studying on the sector-leading course he saw the opportunity to support young people struggling to get into the industry and co-founded Sports News Blitz with writer and journalist Simon Wilkes, Managing Editor at Sip Media Solutions.  

“When you start, the path into the industry is difficult, but seeing someone who's just finished university already doing it is a brilliant way to get in,” Matt said. “Mentoring young students is really fun. The talent out there is fantastic, and I feel like I also learn from them.”  

Simon deemed Matt as being “up there with the elite” of students he has mentored throughout the years. “Matt and I co-founded Sports News Blitz, as we were both keen to create a platform that would give students a chance to gain writing and video experience in a pressure-free environment.”   

On the success of Sports News Blitz, Simon explained: “Both Matt and I are aligned in our values, ethos and beliefs, and we have established a core culture which now runs across a variety of brands covering film, music, travel and football transfer news.  

“Matt has a bright future ahead of him in the digital media and sports journalism industry, he has all the traits required to forge a successful career.”  

Matt had a childhood dream of studying dance, but he pivoted to broadcast journalism, inspired by his work experience in hospital radio. And he said he has “no regrets”.  

“I chose Leeds Trinity for its Journalism course which is the best in the country,” Matt explained. “There’s been no downside to my course, if I’m honest. What sets it apart is the amount of practical work experience offered. From my first year, I was working in newsrooms and building those contacts. I’ve worked with Radio News Hub, Global, the BBC, and Planet Sport, where I started the Sports News Blitz initiative after meeting Simon who was working there at the time.”  

Having completed his degree, Matt’s plan is to go freelance full-time, adding to his current gigs at Radio News Hub, BBC Nottingham and William Hill Radio. In the long term, his dream is to be able to work from anywhere in the world, as a journalist, writer and content creator.  

Leeds Trinity University is ranked first for Journalism in the UK by the Guardian University Guide 2025. To find out more and apply, visit the website.