The collaboration brings together the three leading institutions to create a new football academy offering quality education and guidance to Hackney Wick’s emerging talented footballers.
As part of the agreement, members of the academy will have the opportunity to enrol onto Loughborough College’s BTEC Level 3 National Extended Diploma in Sports Coaching and Development, delivered from Loughborough University London, on the iconic Queen Elizabeth Olympic Park.
Founded over seven years ago by Bobby Kasanga, Hackney Wick is one of the most recognised community clubs in world football and provides opportunities and empowerment that extend far beyond sport. Through multiple community impact projects, Hackney Wick are renowned for the positive effect they have on its local area.
The club works with over 150 players on a weekly basis, with qualified coaches delivering enhanced training sessions to better the players’ prospects. Hackney Wick takes pride in supporting others, especially those from more marginalised communities.
The partnership will also see Hackney Wick Academy regularly attend the University’s East Midlands campus for training camps and matches.
Jo Simpson, Commercial and Facilities Director for Loughborough Sport said: “I am immensely proud to launch this new partnership with Hackney Wick FC. It showcases the power of sport to change lives and build stronger and more vibrant communities.
“When I first met the team behind Hackney Wick, I was inspired by their story and the positive impact they have had on their community. This new Academy brings together the best of Hackney Wick and Loughborough Sport, allowing their players to develop as dual career athletes with dedicated education support and access to opportunities across the sporting world.
“I am very excited to see the first cohort benefit from this new pathway as they join the academy programme later this year.”
Bobby Kasanga, founder of Hackney Wick commented: “We are delighted to collaborate with Loughborough University and Loughborough College to create this ground-breaking new academy. This is an exciting opportunity for our students to be associated with this programme. The pathways and outcomes are endless and we can’t wait to open the doors to the Hackney Wick FC Academy.”
Matt O’Dowd, Head of Elite Sport and Sport Development for Loughborough College said: “Loughborough College provides education support to young performers to enhance their career both on and off the pitch. This new programme, in partnership with Hackney Wick FC and Loughborough University, will provide a unique opportunity for young people to fulfil their dreams and reach their potential”.
For more information on the Hackney Wick Academy, visit its dedicated website here: https://www.loucoll.ac.uk/the-hackney-wick-fc-academy.