Fulham's Under-15 and Under-16 Academy teams shared a wonderful away day experience at St Mary’s University last week.
The players benefited from the Academy partnership with St Mary’s University, spending time away from Motspur Park and enjoying the use of their elite facilities. After a tour around the campus, where staff and players got a glimpse into University life, our young players were put to work by Academy Head of Performance Gill Myburgh.
Training outside in the glorious sunshine on the Mo Farah athletics track, the players worked on agility in small groups, as well as explosion over short distance running.
Both age groups then divided for some smaller group work. Whilst one age group got to experience the performance-suit gym and work on individual technique, the other group were based in the university Nutrition labs ready for a cooking masterclass with Academy Nutritionist Alex Levington. The players worked in pairs to cook Hungarian salad and Egg Shakshuka.
With a taste test concluding the lesson, some players were celebratory and triumphant in their final product, whilst others needed slightly more practice! After swapping workshops, all players were able to impress Alex and all the MDT staff with their efforts and independence in the kitchen.
After lunch, the players headed off for a bespoke lecture on Higher Education. The Under-16s and Under-15s, who are embarking on their GCSE’s, got to think about additional long term career pathways and transitioning out of football, which may include going on to degree-level study. The players heard about a range of sports-based careers and degrees, which prompted much thought and reflection.
The day was rounded off with a 6V6 futsal tournament, where competition was rife. The mixed age groups battled it out in St Mary’s sports hall until champions were crowned.
At the end of a fantastic day, staff from both Fulham Academy and St Mary’s University formally shared their knowledge and experience with each other, further developing our own practice.
Mike Gilham, subject lead at St Mary’s University for Football and Performance Analysis added: "Hosting Fulham FC Academy was a fantastic opportunity to work closely with one of our key partner organisations.
"We were pleased to be able to offer the Academy players the use of our facilities for the day, and the knowledge exchange event with St. Mary’s and Fulham FC staff was very productive for all. We look forward to continuing to work with Fulham as our partnership goes from strength to strength. Thanks to the Fulham players and staff for a great day."
