Attention: You are using an outdated browser, device or you do not have the latest version of JavaScript downloaded and so this website may not work as expected. Please download the latest software or switch device to avoid further issues.
| 1 Apr 2026 | |
| Written by Radha Balani (Balani) | |
| Alumni Stories |
My time at HRSFC revolved around playing, studying, and watching sport - and getting involved in as many teams as possible. I was lucky to be there during Ann Hemming’s tenure, an exceptional teacher and coach whose energy and commitment created opportunities for everyone.
With sport at the centre of everything I did, Loughborough University was the natural next step. I studied Sports Science and English, then spent a year as the elected Athletic Union President. An injury - ironically sustained in an old girls’ match against the HRSFC team - ended my playing days.
But this opened a door to a career focused on sport driving both societal impact and business value. Since then, I’ve worked with the Football Foundation, Women in Sport, and London Sport. I’m now an Expert Partner at Think Beyond, and moved to New York in January 2023 to re‑open and grow our North America office.
My job today didn’t exist when I sat in Ms Hemming’s Sports Studies class, but the passion for this industry certainly did. I’m grateful for how HRSFC nurtured that interest and set me on this path.
Radha Balani, March 2026