Elite Sports Programme Shines in New Commemorative Football Book
Thursday 31st August 2023
Having been dubbed the sporting ‘talent factory’ by The Telegraph, and producing international superstars including Jude Bellingham, Jill Scott, and Ben Chilwell, Loughborough College is continuing its role in footballing history, as part of a new commemorative book.
Authored by renowned and respected sportswriter, Harry Harris and produced in partnership with the Professional Footballers’ Association (PFA) and publisher St James’s House, 50 Years of the PFA Awards charts the evolution of footballing greatness for over five decades, with Loughborough College playing a large part in the development of home-grown talent.
Featuring an interview with Principal and CEO, , who currently serves as a member of the FA Council and the FA’s National Game Board, the feature shines a light on the flexible first-class education offered to sports learners at Loughborough College.
Championing the ground-breaking dual career pathway and commitment to players’ needs that ensures their development before, during, and after their sporting careers.
Speaking with Harry for the article, Jo shared, “Elite sport is in our DNA. We have a long history within football, putting education at the heart of what we do so that we can help footballers transition through their career and ensure their education keeps pace with their career development.”
Representing the College, and more than 1,500 footballers supported by our programmes, Jo attended the launch of the book at this year’s PFA Awards held in Manchester alongside the College’s Dean of HE, Chris Cockerton.
Reflecting on the book launch, and awards event, Jo continued, “Loughborough College is synonymous with sporting excellence, and it is an honour to have attended this incredible event which celebrates hard work, talent, and dedication in professional football.
“We are thrilled to see Loughborough College’s name feature alongside legendary players, and we hope to continue our own legacy of producing exceptional sportspeople to play a key part in the world of football over the next fifty years.”
The PFA Awards recognises footballing excellence across the Premier League, Championship, and Leagues 1 and 2. Former College learners who have won PFA award titles include 2023 Merit Award Winner, alumna Jill Scott, and Players’ Player of the Year 2016, graduate Izzy Christiansen.
50 Years of the PFA Awards is now available for pre-order with St James’s House.
