5 minutes with...

Arlo White

University of Derby Honorary graduate, Ted Lasso star, sports presenter and commentator Arlo White is using his industry expertise to guide aspiring sports journalists. We caught up with him about his time at Derby on a recent visit he made to the University.

What was your experience at the University of Derby?

I didn’t come from an academic background. I was the first in my family to do A levels, and the first to go to university where I studied American Studies and Film Studies. Having been born and raised in Leicester, Derby was convenient; far enough away that I could be independent, but close enough that I could take my washing home if I needed to! I enjoyed coming to the city; there was a real buzz about it in the early ‘90s.

I didn’t quite achieve academically what I wanted, but I threw myself into the sporting side of university. I got a lot out of being a member of the football team - I was second team manager at one stage, and we had some success, winning the league title. I’m still in touch with most of those guys, we were a real close-knit group who got on like a house on fire and had a great time. I made lifelong friends and had a very positive experience coming here.

How did it feel when you were made an Honorand of the University?

It was honestly one of the proudest moments of my life. To be acknowledged, and to have the opportunity to speak in front of graduates was very special to me. It’s not just a case of being an Honorand and then disappearing; it’s a continuation of the relationship. It cements and formalises it, and it’s something I’m very grateful for.

I continue to work with students at the University of Derby. Not just for a couple of hours every six months or so, but if students need advice or mentoring I am available for them. To see their enthusiasm, obvious talent and curiosity is impressive, especially knowing that’s a huge part of success in the industry. You can see already that there are broadcasters, writers and commentators in the making, because they have that desire and dream to be in the industry and are making the most of their opportunity.

What has been the most memorable moment in your career so far?

During lockdown, which was a tough time for everybody, I saw the first episode of Ted Lasso, knowing that I was part of it but not really knowing to what extent. Then I saw how it turned out and that I hadn’t made a complete fool of myself, which was good as I realised then that it was going to be massive. That was pretty cool and provided a boost at a very difficult time.

Also, while commentating at the Rio Olympics for NBC, seeing Neymar score the winning penalty kick for the gold medal at the Maracanã Stadium in front of 80,000 screaming Brazilians. Other than a World Cup final, it doesn’t get better than that. That moment will stick with me forever.

Why would you recommend the course to someone seeking a similar career to yours?

It’s a direct route into the industry. You are not only getting the classroom experience, but you are getting hands on job experience by going to events and the links with football clubs, St George’s Park, and the Football Association. It’s absolutely invaluable.

Back when I first got into the industry I learnt on the job at the BBC, and that was stressful at times, because I was thrown into crazy situations like being face-to-face with Chris Moyles taking the mickey out of me for 10 minutes. It was a baptism of fire, and I wouldn’t necessarily have been in that situation if I had had a course like this. It’s a direct route into the industry and that’s absolutely priceless.

Do you have any words of advice for working in the industry you’re in?

To be successful takes hard work, preparation and sacrifice. It’s often staying in at weekends, doing that extra bit of research, and throwing yourself completely into it and seeing where it takes you. Grasp the big moments when you can, remember that this is what you want to do, and do what you need to do to get there. That will separate the people who really want it and those that aren’t quite as motivated as the others.

Also seek out help, guidance and support when you’re struggling. Leaving home and the support network that you have around you is a transition. If I were to change one thing about my own experience, I’d seek more guidance to keep me on track and achieve what I should have achieved.

Students at the University of Derby have such a fantastic opportunity – if they make the most of it then they’ll go far.