West Brom extends partnership deal with university

West Bromwich Albion is to extend its partnership with the University of Wolverhampton and continue to offer internships and work placements at the club.

The collaboration, which began in 2013, has given students opportunities in photography, marketing, sport and hospitality and will now offer taster sessions in football education and coaching.

Former Birmingham City and Tottenham Hotspur footballer, Kerys Harrop, who now teaches at the university, said it would be "fantastic to have the Albion on your CV".

Seven university graduates now work at the club's academy having previously completed work placements, the university said.

Kieron Squire studied physical education teaching and coaching at the university and said he was now under-9's lead coach for the club's academy.

He said he did not realise coaching could become a full-time career but coaching men and women at the university gave him new skills.

"It's great to be working alongside current university students, some of them working in analysis, who watch and code some of our games," he said.

"We are then able to provide feedback to the players to ensure they have the best tools to perform."

Ms Harrop, now lecturer in football coaching and performance, said the partnership would allow football coaching students to gain knowledge and experience that would help them develop.

"For students to have the Albion on your CV, if you have completed a placement, volunteering opportunities, or taken on part-time or full-time work, it would be fantastic for them.

"Having a partnership with West Bromwich Albion is a selling point for the university and prospective students.

"I believe it's an attraction for students knowing we have partnerships with professional clubs in the Midlands, including the Albion."

Rachel Rankin, head of marketing and equality, diversity and inclusion at the club said she had graduated from the university in 1998.

She said for anyone starting their career, they needed "to work hard and take opportunities when you get them".

"The university provided me with plenty of opportunities, and you just have to be brave in taking those opportunities when they come."

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