UEL students enjoy Q&A with West Ham United players
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Published
10 March 2025
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West Ham United Foundation BSc Sports Coaching and Performance students at UEL had the opportunity to learn from three West Ham United first-team players, during a 90-minute Q&A session at the University’s Docklands campus.
James Ward-Prowse, Wes Foderingham and Andy Irving provided valuable insights on their experience as professional footballers, with the topic of the Q&A focused on winter training.
The students presented their suggestions to the room, enabling the coaches, players and students to discuss their ideas and areas for improvement.
Alife Crickmar, the Higher Education Manager at WHU Foundation, was full of praise for his students.
The players shared valuable insights into maintaining peak performance, adapting to challenging weather conditions, and the importance of recovery and injury prevention during the winter period. Their experiences and professionalism gave students a real-world perspective on elite-level preparation, complementing their academic studies with practical understanding.
The session was highly engaging, with students able to ask questions and gain expert advice on training methodologies, matchday preparation, and the resilience required to perform at the highest level. This experience undoubtedly enriched their learning and provided invaluable inspiration for their future careers in coaching and sports performance.”
These discussions were relevant to our Year of Health, as we aim to leverage sport to inspire our community to lead healthier lifestyles.
Joe Carpenter, who is in his second year of studies, had many positive things to say about the experience.
Seeing our class so engaged with the players was really inspiring. They were excited to get feedback on their winter coaching practices from professional football players.
It was fantastic to witness the interaction and the valuable insights shared by the players. This hands-on experience is invaluable for us and provides a unique perspective on elite athlete training and preparation. We're all thrilled with how the event turned out and look forward to more opportunities like this in the future.”
Concluding the incredible experience, players offered students photos and autographs, and chatted with students about everything from their university experiences to ambitions for the future.
The BSc Sports Coaching and Performance degree is a partnership between the UEL and West Ham United Foundation, offering students unique insight from a Premier League Club and wider industry related opportunities.
The players' visit came as part of the Football Club’s Players’ Project, which sees men’s, women’s, and academy players advocate for initiatives that promote social mobility, youth, inclusion, and health and wellbeing. This support encompasses the Foundation’s work, which consists of more than 35 programmes spanning east London, Essex, and international areas. It has seen the likes of Jarrod Bowen and Kristie Mewis.
The Foundation is set to open its redeveloped hub later this year - a stone’s throw away from the Docklands campus – which promises to be a global community beacon in the heart of East London.
