Join Loughborough Lightning

We pride ourselves on an inclusive performance offer and aim to be the number one destination for dual career footballers. We value education and football equally.

Your route in

We provide playing opportunities for undergraduate and postgraduate students from Loughborough University. Scholarships are available to our talented student-athletes.

Additionally, we operate similarly to a traditional football club, with players entering the team through talent ID events, our player development pathway, or a recruitment strategy. Please see entry route examples below:

 

Playing options

Undergraduate student-players
We want to recruit and develop the best young talented footballers who want to focus on their University education. We can provide you with a controlled hybrid training approach, supporting you in both on the football field and in the classroom. A fantastic opportunity to study and play your football all in the same place.

Postgraduate student-players
We want to recruit UK-based and international players, coaches or wider support staff who are interested in studying for their MSc or Phd whilst playing or coaching for Lightning. We welcome applications and interest from prospective dual-career footballers from all around the world.

Traditional player route
We also have players in our Lightning squad who are in full-time employment in various roles. These players would typically access our evening football programme alongside our student-players.

Loan player route
We are also open minded and happy to have conversations with clubs to discuss possible opportunities to support talented young players with playing experience.

Prospective students 

If you are interested in joining the Lightning Football Programme, please follow the steps below:

  1. Complete the sign-up form

    Fill in your details using the Loughborough University Sign-Up Form. Please provide accurate information.

  2. Download the aiScout App
    aiScout on the App Store
    aiScout on Google Play

  3. Sign in
    Log in to the aiScout app using the same details you provided in the sign-up form.

  4. Complete the trial
    Locate the 'Loughborough University Trial' within the aiScout app and complete the required drills.
Player sign up form