UoG student leads the way as new appointment to national football leadership programme

A University of Gloucestershire student is a groundbreaking new appointment to an award-winning initiative delivering positive change in the football industry.

Abi Nicol, who is studying BSc (Hons) Sport and Exercise Sciences, has become the first student from the University to be selected for one of the limited number of places on the FA and BUCS Women’s Leadership programme.

The globally recognised programme, which the Gender Equality Project Award at the 2021 FISU Gender Equality Awards, aims to positively impact the gender diversity of the paid football workforce within England.

It supports female and non-binary students who aspire to work within the football industry by developing the leadership skills, confidence, professional networks and industry knowledge needed to succeed after graduation.

Abi (pictured above), who is captain of the University’s women’s football team, said: “I applied to the BUCS programme to gain valuable insight into the gap between the women’s and girls’ game and the roles women can have within sport as a whole.

“To be accepted into such a small cohort really means a lot to me and to be the first to represent the University adds even more value. I hope that at the end of it, I have developed my connections and I help make a difference for the women and girls game.”

Alongside Abi’s academic studies at the University, the programme will provide opportunities for her to develop skills, behaviours and confidence, and to explore and understand the diverse opportunities that exist in football. It starts in September and lasts for nine months.

Kate Gumm, Head Coach of the women’s football team who works within the University’s Sport and Active Life team, said: “Everyone at the University is immensely proud of Abi’s selection for the national leadership programme, although her superb achievement will come as no surprise to anyone who knows her.

“Abi has consistently gone above and beyond the call of duty as the captain of the women’s football team, leading with boundless enthusiasm, professionalism and genuine care for her team-mates both on and off the pitch.”

Matt Tansley, Head of Sport and Active Life, added: “Alongside captaining the women’s football club so brilliantly, Abi represents the University as a Student Ambassador, supporting prospective students and sharing her experiences of University life.

“She has demonstrated an outstanding commitment to the University community while dedicating many hours to strengthening the women’s football club and enhancing the experience of its members.”