People interested in pursuing a career in sport are being invited to attend an open evening this week hosted jointly by Velocity Football and Ignite Sport UK.
The open evening will take place at the Velocity Stadium in Marston, Oxford, from 6.30pm this Wednesday (October 20) and provide a practical insight into the higher education courses, apprenticeships and adult education both organisations provide.
CEO of Ignite Sport UK and Director of Velocity Football Justin Merritt will start the evening by discussing all avenues people can explore with input from coaches Ross Jenkins and Lauren Haynes.
Justin said the evening will help people better understand the career options and opportunities available through Velocity and Ignite.
“After more than a year of COVID-19 uncertainty, it’s great to finally be able to host an open evening in person and welcome guests to our base,” said Justin. “Velocity Football provides students with a proven development pathway to either a career in sport or further education via apprenticeships or university.
“Students combine their studies with full-time training sessions which enable them to access the latest technology and reach their full potential both on and off the pitch.
“We also specialise in the provision of sports and teaching-based qualifications via Ignite, delivering apprenticeships from Level 2 intermediate up to Level 5 higher. It means we can offer an apprenticeship to everyone, including those currently employed looking to upskill and develop their existing qualities.
“We look forward to seeing everyone later this week and hope they find the open evening informative and useful.”
Current Velocity Football students and Ignite apprentices will also be in attendance through the open evening to provide a first-hand insight into their experiences.
They include Velocity student Noa Ben-Adel, who this year received the call-up to represent Oxford City U23s in the FA Youth Cup after developing his playing ability via Velocity with the support of the programme’s experienced and qualified team of coaches.
Noa said: “Football is my passion, and to combine playing and training with an education towards a sports-based qualification is perfect.
“I would love to play football professionally. But Velocity make it very clear about the importance of working towards a qualification and having a back-up plan should things not work out.
“After graduating from Velocity, I plan to further my education at university with the goal of becoming a sports coach.”
Visitors attending Wednesday’s open evening must pre-book their space. Booking can be confirmed by calling the Velocity Football team direct via 0300 303 0809 or emailing [email protected].