Throwback Thursday: Ben Rowlands

This week we’re catching up with former Winstanley student Ben Rowlands, who has spent the last four years completing an academic and sporting journey in the United States. Ben is now just months away from graduating with a degree in Sports Management.

Ben says:
“I joined Winstanley College from Byrchall High School and studied English, Sport and Biology between 2022 and 2023. I really loved my Winstanley experience—it went by so quickly. Being part of the Winstanley football team played a huge role in shaping the direction I’ve taken, and the college supported me every step of the way.

After leaving Winstanley, I secured a football scholarship at Union University in Kentucky, USA, which was an incredible opportunity. Then in 2024, I transferred to the University of Lynchburg in Virginia on an academic scholarship to study Sports Management. I’m now just four months away from finishing my degree and I’ll be graduating in May 2026. Alongside studying, I work on campus in the mail room, helping to manage the receipt and dispatch of all mail items, which has been a great experience and given me a steady routine alongside my course.

I’ll be returning to the UK in May and will be looking to begin full‑time employment, and I’m also considering undertaking a master’s in Sports Management. I’m keeping my options open, but I’ve got a good idea of the direction I want to go in.

I always tell future Winstanley students to take every opportunity they can while they’re there. Those two years go by so fast, but they can genuinely change the course of your life. The College gave me the platform for the opportunities I’ve had and helped me get to where I wanted to be. Work hard—it absolutely pays off.

My time in the USA has opened so many doors for me. I’ve been lucky enough to meet amazing people from all over the world—fellow students, lecturers, work colleagues—and during breaks like spring break and Thanksgiving, I used that time to travel across the country. I’ve made so many memories. I’ve really loved my four years in the States, and I’m excited to see what the future holds.”

Thank you, Ben for sharing your story. If you are a former student, we would love to hear from you, check out our alumni page: Alumni - Winstanley College