Rédaction Africa Links 24 with Guardian Nigeria
Published on 2024-04-18 04:31:38
Nigerian aspiring footballers looking to pursue both their athletic and academic ambitions now have a unique opportunity thanks to Coventry City Football Club, an English Championship side. In addition to their upcoming FA Cup semifinal match against Manchester United, the club has partnered with various universities in the United Kingdom to nurture young talents and guide them towards a successful football career.
Brooke House College, Loughborough College, and Coventry FC are the key partners in this initiative. Sports Lawyer and Educational Agent, Johnny Ogbah, revealed that a growing number of Nigerians are currently in the UK, studying and receiving firsthand experience in football. This project aims to provide a platform for parents and young athletes to strike a balance between sports and education.
Ogbah emphasized the benefits of this partnership, particularly Brooke House College’s collaboration with reputable universities and Coventry FC, which offers a promising opportunity for parents seeking to support their children in pursuing both academic and athletic goals. The project includes full degree programs with academic sessions beginning in September, as well as flexible study schedules lasting three, six, or nine months for certain students.
Coaches from the UK regularly visit Nigeria to scout talented young players for scholarships. Many of these students have gone on to represent Nigeria in various age-grade teams and have even secured spots in youth teams for prestigious clubs like Manchester City and Leicester. Former junior internationals, including Success Makanjuola and Habib Makanjuola, have also benefitted from the educational and sports programs offered by Brooke House College.
Furthermore, Coventry University is actively collaborating with private universities in Nigeria to facilitate the transition of talented players abroad while continuing their education. Ogbah noted that while the cost of tuition may be a concern for some families due to exchange rates, payment plans have been structured to ease the financial burden. Moreover, talented players may be eligible for scholarships, providing a solid foundation for their future in both academics and athletics.
In conclusion, the collaboration between Coventry City FC, Brooke House College, and various universities in the UK presents a valuable opportunity for Nigerian footballers to pursue their sporting dreams without compromising their educational goals. By offering a supportive environment that prioritizes both athletic and academic development, this initiative is paving the way for the next generation of successful and well-rounded footballers.
