Premier League Academy graduates begin UCFB degrees to pursue alternative sports industry careers

Multiple Premier League academy graduates have been offered scholarships through UCFB to progress their education and career paths within the sports industry.

The newly formed partnership between UCFB and the Premier League displays to Premier League academies the many paths available through UCFB to sports industry careers.

The aim of the initiative is to ensure academy graduates, whether they become a professional footballer or pursue an alternative career path, are equipped with the skills necessary to thrive in their chosen field.

One of these graduates is Matty Downing, who is keen to keep pitchside, beginning a UCFB undergraduate degree in BA (Hons) Football Coaching (distance with attendance).

When asked about his time so far at UCFB, Matty said: “I’m really enjoying my course. It’s given me lots of in-depth knowledge and made me think further into everything that I do.

“If I was talking to any young footballer thinking of joining a UCFB course, I’d say definitely go for it.”

Eric Ameyaw, who was a player at Fulham FC, has taken a step towards the business side of the football industry, and now studies BA (Hons) Football Business and Finance at UCFB Wembley.

He said: “My UCFB experience so far has been amazing. The teachers have been so helpful, the courses have been very thorough. I’ve loved it so far.

“The opportunity the Premier League has given us is invaluable. Take it with both hands.”

Another Premier League graduate who has started a football business-related undergraduate degree course with UCFB is Iyiola Adibayo, who studies BA (Hons) Football Business and Marketing.

“My advice for an academy player,” he said, “is just because you’re going into university doesn’t mean your footballing dreams are over.

“Be open minded, because there’s a lot more to life than just football on the pitch.”