Opportunities to play football in Australia, USA, New Zealand

The scheme is run in partnership with Future Elite Sport and could offer students the chance to play abroad in countries such as the USA, Australia and New Zealand.

From September, the new football programme based at the college’s Brooksby Campus, will enable students to excel academically, physically and technically.

Students will study a sport science degree programme whilst also participating in a football training programme, which includes daily sessions with UEFA-qualified coaches, strength and conditioning sessions, and analysis sessions.

Future Elite Sports’ Greg Josling said: “We believe that working with like-minded people is important for any new project to be a success, and therefore we are extremely excited to be working in partnership with BMC to provide a high level football academy from September 2021.

“From our first meeting it was clear that the BMC shared our vision of offering students the unique opportunity to focus on playing football at the highest possible level, whilst also pursuing a degree, which will enhance their employability once they graduate.

“The combination of outstanding facilities, coaching and teaching means that any student that joins the academy will have a first-class experience both on and off the field.

“The goal from a football standpoint is to continue to develop players so that they can play at as high a level as possible. Once students complete their studies, they will have opportunities to complete their post-graduate degree in the USA on a soccer scholarship, play football in Australia or New Zealand, or gain access to clubs in the UK.”

James Thorne, head of faculty for Sport at BMC, added: “We are extremely happy to have created a unique and exciting partnership with Future Elite Sports, where we share the same vision and aims, and therefore have created a supportive and vibrant programme for higher education students who want to achieve in both sport end education.”

He added: “Through our excellent teaching and learning that enables students to gain a BSc (Hons) degree in sport science, elite performance facilities to train and develop their athleticism, and top football coaching, we are providing an opportunity for students to progress in their sport, education and life.

“In addition, students will gain work experience within the Sport Science industry so that they leave the programme as employable, knowledgeable individuals who are well positioned to play or work in high level sport.”