Semester Two Coming to a Close at UOG

As we round out the second semester and first full year at the University of Gloucestershire, we wanted to reflect on the past semester.

In January, the second term began with training. At the end of the month the boys had a tremendous opportunity to be coached by a former Premier League coach, Richard O’Kelly. 

Richard was keen to emphasise the importance of discipline, dedication  and team work and I’m sure that his enthusiasm and passion for the game will have rubbed off on  everyone there. ​

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Following the training session the former Aston Villa number two held a Q&A where he was asked who was the best player he had coached. He answered, without hesitation, that it was Jack Grealish, not only for his incredible talent, but also for his hard work and dedication to the game, noting that Grealish would be out on the practice pitch long after his team mates had left. ​

​Following the trip to see Manchester City in the Champions League in November, UDA UoG completed a hat-trick of top team fixtures this Semester.

In February there was a second visit to the Etihad, this time to see a Premier League game against Brentford, with City winning to remain top of the league. This trip was combined with a visit the National Football Museum.  

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The top flight hat-trick was completed with an FA Cup Fifth Round tie at Anfield between Liverpool and  Norwich, a chance to experience the atmosphere of this iconic stadium and to see the team who will  challenge Man City for the Premier League crown at the end of the season.

​The boys were sat with the Norwich supporters who sang and chanted throughout the game, providing a taste of the sense of humour of British fans. Liverpool won the game and will be playing Chelsea in the Final at Wembley in May.

Finally, there was a packed fixture list for UDA in the new semester with games against Hartpury College,  Gloucester City, Cheltenham Saracens, Ashton Keynes, Kidderminster Harriers, Cheltenham Town U19, the University BUCS team and Gala. There were also opportunities for the boys to play for Gloucester City U21 as the UDA strengthens its links with the local National League club. 

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We look forward to you all returning after the Easter break and continuing your academic and football success!