Football partnerships lead to brilliant careers

Released: 20.02.17

Flourishing football partnerships are creating genuine career opportunities for the next generation of football lovers.

The University has signed a deal with Devon Football Association (Devon FA) and Plymouth Argyle to give those studying the university’s new football degree real-world experience of working in the industry.

Chris French of Devon FA said: "We’re delighted to support students through placements, guest lectures and events in this rare opportunity to be involved at the heart of professional organisations and clubs such as ours, which significantly improves their CVs and career prospects.”

Argyle Community Trust is a shining example of great jobs for graduates as Manager Mark Lovell explained: “Almost half our workforce have completed courses in football and coaching at Marjon which is proof a degree leads to a great job”.

Many staff at Argyle Community Trust have played at professional level. One example is graduate Dan Hart, a product of the Home Park Academy and once a target for Arsenal who said: “I believe the door is open for future graduates to succeed and sharing my knowledge with young people who are experiencing football at a professional level for the first time is very special. A degree was the crucial piece in a jigsaw that began with my own love of football and I’ve used that experience to forge my own career in the game.”

Phil Brown, Marjon’s BA Football Development and Coaching Programme Leader, said: “We’re thrilled to support best practice and equip students with practical experience alongside their qualifications to help them get ahead in an exciting global football industry”. 

Dwain Morgan, Social Inclusion Manager with Argyle Community Trust and former Marjon student added: “I loved my time as a student. As a football fan and a lover of all sports it made complete sense to pursue a career in the field of my passion and it fills me with great pride to reach out to all sectors of the community and make a positive impact.”

Places on Marjon’s Football Degree are still available for 2017. Email Phil Brown for more information pbrown@marjon.ac.uk or 01752 636700.