Sports Scholars programme welcomes athletes for 2026/27

The University of East London’s Performance Sport team officially welcomed more than 100 new and returning Sports Scholars at the annual Sports Scholar Induction Event, held on Friday 18 September.

The event brought together an exceptional group of student-athletes who will represent UEL, East London Phoenix and partner clubs throughout the 2026/27 season. This year’s cohort includes Paralympians, Commonwealth Games medallists, professional football, basketball and volleyball players, former Great Britain senior and junior internationals, and graduates of NCAA Division 1 and Division 2 collegiate programmes.

Among the talented athletes joining or returning to the programme are former GB U20 basketball player Louis Grante-Halliday, professional basketball players Annika Shah and Sara Ahmadpour of the London Lions, England U20 volleyball player Victor Jalloh, Commonwealth Games silver medallists Lea Smith and Jodie Waite, former Bayern Munich academy player Philipp Herrmann, and Dominican Republic Futsal International Dimar Blanco.

The diversity of sporting talent is matched by the breadth of academic study across the University. Sports Scholars are pursuing qualifications across a wide range of disciplines, including Professional Accounting, Cyber Security & Networks, International Law and Practice, Global Sports Journalism, Sports Management, Sport and Exercise Science, and Physical Education and Development.

Throughout the year, UEL athletes will compete in weekly BUCS fixtures and represent East London Phoenix and partner clubs in national league competitions across multiple sports. The programme provides student-athletes with the resources, expertise and support network needed to perform at the highest level both on and off the field of play.

A highlight of the induction event was a keynote address from UEL alumna and Hall of Fame inductee Vanessa Wallace. Drawing on her experiences as both a student and elite athlete, Vanessa delivered an inspiring and engaging message, encouraging scholars to embrace every opportunity available to them during their time at UEL and to strive for excellence in all aspects of university life.

Will Ashby, Head of Performance Sport, spoke about the significance of this year’s intake and the continued growth of the programme:

It was fantastic to welcome such an outstanding group of student-athletes to UEL. The calibre of talent within this year’s Sports Scholar cohort is truly exceptional, with athletes competing and succeeding on national and international stages across a range of sports. What makes the programme particularly special is the diversity of our students, who are studying across disciplines from accounting and law to journalism, cyber security and sport science.

Our aim is to provide an environment where student-athletes can thrive both academically and athletically, supported by expert staff, dedicated services and a strong sporting community. We are excited to follow their journeys throughout the year and look forward to seeing them represent UEL, East London Phoenix and their respective clubs with pride.”

The Sports Scholar welcome event marks the beginning of what promises to be another memorable season for performance sport at UEL, showcasing the University's commitment to supporting ambitious student-athletes as they pursue excellence in education and elite sport. Students, staff and the wider UEL community are encouraged to follow the progress of the University’s teams and athletes as they compete across BUCS and national league competitions.