In our "Meet the Team" series, we introduce you to the incredible people who drive Raw Stadia's success. Next up is Hugh Sugden, our Key Account Manager for the UK, who combines his extensive experience in sports coaching with a passion for innovation and performance optimisation. Let’s get to know him better.
Can you tell us a little about your background and what brought you to join our team?
I’m from Liverpool, a city deeply rooted in sports culture, and I’ve always been involved in playing various sports. I began my coaching career in football and progressed to working in sports operations and development. After over six years coaching football in the U.S., I realised that the environment sports create can be life-changing. When I discovered Raw Stadia’s mission and innovative approach, I wanted to be part of a team that shares that belief and fosters a dynamic environment.
Outside of work, what are some of your hobbies or interests?
I try to stay active and enjoy trying new hobbies. I’m an enthusiastic golfer, even if I’m not very skilled at it, and I want to play Padel more often. My wife and I love to travel and hike as much as we can, appreciating the outdoors together.
Is there anything unique or unexpected about you that you think the team would find interesting?
I’ve taken on two significant fitness challenges: I was one of six to complete the UK's longest triathlon, covering over 500 miles across Scotland, England, and Wales. I also participated in a 100-mile run within 24 hours, both raising money for charity.
Do you have any fun facts or anecdotes you'd like to share with your new colleagues?
My earliest memory of sport is playing football in the garden for hours with my mum, who would play as the goalkeeper. Her support sparked my desire to be involved in sports from a young age.
What excites you the most about your role here?
I’m excited about the opportunity to contribute to elite-level sports and be part of a leading company with true experts in the field. I’m particularly eager to see how Raw Stadia expands globally and supports different sports, as this presents an opportunity to make a significant impact on the performance and safety of athletes worldwide. Being part of this journey and witnessing the transformation that our technology can bring is what truly drives my enthusiasm.
What are some of your key strengths or areas of expertise that you bring to the team?
I excel in building relationships and understanding the needs of various environments within the sports sector. My experience has taught me how to effectively engage with coaches, grounds teams, and medical staff to identify their specific challenges and requirements. This ability to communicate and collaborate across different areas enables me to tailor solutions that support our clubs effectively. I am also adept at analysing data and leveraging insights to inform decision-making, which is crucial in developing strategies that enhance both performance and safety.
How do you envision contributing to the team's goals and objectives?
I aim to build on the great work and push into new markets and sports. By leveraging our data, I want to connect ground teams to coaching, performance, and medical staff, creating a more integrated approach to athlete management. This holistic perspective is essential for optimising player performance and ensuring their safety on the field. Additionally, I am committed to fostering strong partnerships with clubs and organisations, helping to raise awareness of Raw Stadia's solutions and the value they bring to the sports industry.
What do you hope to accomplish or learn during your time with us?
I’ve already learned so much from my colleagues and the challenges we face in the industry, but I’m eager to learn more about player-surface interaction and how data can actively enhance performance across different sports. Understanding these dynamics will enable me to contribute more effectively to our client's success. I also hope to expand my knowledge of sports science and technology, allowing me to provide even greater value to our partners and help drive Raw Stadia's mission forward.
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