Football is the most popular sport on the planet. FIFA estimates that there are 3.5 billion fans worldwide. It comes as no surprise that for many students, football plays a real part in deciding where they wish to study. In this series, we are going to be looking at some of the top footballing universities in the UK and worldwide, this week featuring Leeds Becket University.
Leeds becket university football club (LBU) currently has 120 members competing in one of the 4 men’s or 3 women’s sides. The club is run by both students and coaches and was founded in 1993, making it one of the most established clubs at the university. This has led it to it producing professional football talents, such as women’s UEFA player of the year and runner up of the Ballon D’or, Lucy Bronze.
This really is a university footballing organization that wants to see its members reach professional status. This is demonstrated by the schedule they give to their players. On top of university work, players are involved with the club every weekday. Sessions involve; team training, analysis, game days, recovery, strength, and conditioning workouts. This roughly equates to between 15-20 hours of football work a week. All this training can be tough on the body, which is why members of the club have access to the sports treatment centre. Here they can receive injury treatments as well as sports massage.
Furthering the chance to play professionally, LBU players have the opportunity to join the Carnegie International Soccer Academy (CISA). This is run alongside premier league side, Leeds United. The academy describes itself as allowing young players to enhance their football skills, whilst studying at LBU. CIS gives 4 promises for athletes in its ranks:
- A minimum of 15 hours a week dedicated to football activity that follows premier league coaching, training, and philosophy.
- Coaching from the professionals. This includes Leeds United premier league coaches.
- Coaching from guest coaches. Previously have seen the likes of Nigeria’s international player, Enoch Showunmi.
- A guaranteed full football season, comprised of matches and training between September and April.
Aside from performing on the pitch, the university offers many opportunities to work in a football setting. These include coaching, performance analysis, strength and conditioning, injury prevention/treatment, and sports psychology.
Ruth Brazier began her LBU career originally as a player and student, completing her Bachelors’, Masters and Ph.D. at the university. From there she has gone on to take up the role of head of football at the university. She was voted as sports personality of the year and has brought the same passion and energy into her new coaching role. Students looking to become involved in the LBU family may wish to reach out to her about joining the squad. Her email is posted below.
Ruth Brazier email: [email protected]
Other than football, there is plenty Leeds has to offer. The city has a thriving nightlife. There are many bars and clubs that cater to all. If you’re a fan of classy cocktail nights, then Merrion Street is the place for you. For those that want to have a dance, the city has several exciting clubs such as Mint club, Canal Mills, and Beaver works.
For those not into the drinking culture, Leeds is home to Trinity kitchen. Perfect for foodies, this venue rotates its independent eateries every month, meaning there’s always something new to try. The city also has many shopping destinations and showcases many designer stores and boutiques. Trinity centre is located in the heart of the city and offers students up to 50% discounts, making it a hot spot for student shopping.
To summarise, Leeds is an amazing place to study and grow, especially for those looking to further their footballing careers. If you would like to further look at the university, there are two links to explore.
Leeds Becket University Football Club
Carnegie International Soccer Academy
