Record numbers enrol with Velocity Football – Oxford City Football Club’s educational academy

A new wave of students aspiring towards a career in sport have enrolled onto Velocity Football, Oxford City Football Club’s full-time educational academy.

The revamped programme which offers students multiple development pathways via qualifications, apprenticeships and specialist education programmes launched its second year this week with Virtual Learning UK.

A record number of students have signed up to combine daily on-field training sessions with study towards completing an industry recognised qualification.

Courses are open to male and female students aged 16 to 23 and are led by a team of experienced and qualified coaches including former Watford midfielder Ross Jenkins, Oxford United Women’s captain Lauren Haynes and Oxford City fans’ favourite Josh Ashby.

Students can develop their playing ability via weekly competitive matches at National League and Tactics League level while work experience programmes covering multiple career pathways are also available to complement the academic framework.

Justin Merritt, Director of Velocity Football, said it was great to welcome so many fresh faces to the programme after the summer break.

He said: “It’s been great to welcome everyone back on-site and we’re pleased so many students have decided to study with Velocity Football and Virtual Learning UK to enhance their knowledge and understanding of the sports sector.

“Creating a fun and enjoyable environment where everyone has the chance to reach their full potential on and off the pitch is a core part of our focus. It’s therefore pleasing to see our coaching team already establishing strong working relationships with our new and existing students.

“We’re not naïve to the facts concerning how many young players achieve their dreams by becoming professional players. What Velocity Football provides is a platform for students to chase their ambitions while gaining a relevant qualification suitable for a career in sport or furthering their education at university.” 

Students new to the programme wasted no time getting their skills and fitness up to speed.

Through the summer holidays, students were able to attend free coaching sessions and spin classes delivered in partnership with Oxsrad Sports and Leisure Centre.

Now the first term has started, students will combine their training with daily classroom activities.

Lauren Haynes, Head Coach of Velocity’s female programme, said: “Studying at Velocity allows young people to excel as a student-athlete and explore the options of a playing career or one within the sports sector.

“The facilities at Oxford City Football Club are outstanding and training and learning in a professional environment sets our students up for a bright and positive future.

“Importantly, we’re not just a football academy – we cater for players of all abilities. If sport is your passion, then I cannot recommend the programme enough, it’s a great way to learn, train and establish strong industry contacts.”

Spaces on Velocity Football’s 2021-22 term are still available. For further information and to enquire about enrolling, please email [email protected] or call 0300 303 0809.

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