As a BA (Hons) Sports Business & Sports Law student, Raeece Ellington balances working towards his degree with training for UCFB Etihad Campus’ elite football academy. Having previously played for Bradford City AFC, he tells us how the academy restored his confidence after being released from the club and how it’s continued to develop and sharpen his game…

Tell us about the UCFB Etihad Campus Academy and what it involves. 

The Academy helps players who have been in and around the professional game by giving them another chance to improve their skills on a day-to-day basis, by being given access to a top team that includes coaching staff, strength and conditioning coaches and physio therapists as well as the technology that is used in football. Depending on the attitude of us as players, we can either take advantage of the facilities and coach’s time being offered to us or we can choose to mess around because we’ve played at higher levels. That’s one of the main things that has interested me, the professionalism from coaches such as Kev (Kevin Hodgson) and Walshy (Mike Walsh) every training session. I saw it as a great opportunity to stay focused and knew the academy would help me improve as a player, due to the experience of the coaches and the facilities provided. The mentoring you receive from these guys just shows how much commitment they have to the UCFB Etihad Campus Academy.

What have been some of the highlights of playing for the academy so far?

Due to the season being cancelled we had quite a few friendly games along with usual weekly training. I’d probably say my highlights so far have been scoring against the Stockport County youth side – a worldie might I add – and our team performance against Telford FC, a very organised National League side. I was so proud of the lads for showing such character and getting behind one another. Another aspect I have enjoyed is that we have had coaching sessions delivered by Premier League first team coaches, who have shared their knowledge which has also helped my development.

How did you find playing professionally for Bradford City?

It was an experience with some highs and lows. At 17 making my debut for my hometown club at the time felt like a massive achievement, but one of the biggest lows was being released from the academy at 17, two days prior to an operation. I think it's important for young people to remember that the academy system is just one avenue to becoming a professional footballer.

In what ways has the academy built on and improved your football performance?

As a player having a year out due to injury, and then going to play in Sweden but having to come back due to Covid-19, at times it has felt as if I have been playing catch up. But coming into the academy meant I’d be on the ball most days and Kev and Walshy have encouraged all players to be playing regularly at a club, and they have assisted us by reaching out to play for local teams. As I moved to Manchester, this has really helped me as Kev and Walshy have guided me to clubs that suit my style of play so that I can gradually gain the experience I need to move to the next level. Moving here away from home, I can’t thank them enough for how much they’ve helped me. We are also regularly provided with player reports which contains areas that we can develop and improve on and throughout the season, so we’re offered help to improve on anything we may want to develop.

How have you found training alongside your BA (Hons) Sports Business & Sports Law degree?

This year has been different due to Covid-19, but having come from a disciplined background I have not found it too difficult managing the training and coursework deadlines. I have found the law degree interesting as there is a lot of reading to do. 2021/2022 will be vital for my academic studies so I am looking forward to seeing what the year has to bring both with training and the degree.

What are your career aspirations when you graduate – football or law?

Football is my first love and I still have the desire to play at a high level, and those around me such as Kev and Walshy believe in my ability. Sometimes you need people backing your corner. However, having a degree in Sports Business & Sports Law will allow me to pursue other avenues in the world of football.

What advice would you give to anyone looking to study at UCFB through Clearing?

I would say to anyone that is considering to study at UCFB, choose the right course for you and do your research. UCFB have a lot of opportunities and also access to bursary funding that can help young people. Manchester is a great place to study and live with really good transport links and good places to eat.