Northern Ireland manager delivers 'fantastic insight' to university students

‘How coaches and players utilise the process of assessing performance’ was the main focus of an online session the manager staged for students on a degree course run by Ulster University in partnership with the Irish Football Association.

The BSc Hons Football Coaching and Business Management degree is usually delivered on a fast-track part-time basis at the National Football Stadium at Windsor Park; however, during the pandemic it is being delivered remotely.

In the online session, the Northern Ireland boss also discussed various other topics with students on the course. Course director Kyle Ferguson said: "The partnership between Ulster University and the Irish FA provides unique opportunities for our students to hear from experts such as Ian throughout their studies.

"It was a fantastic insight into football at the top level of the game, which touched on so many of the learning outcomes across a number of modules the students are studying, such as performance analysis, strategic business management and coaching."

Co-designed by Ulster University and the Irish FA, the BSc Hons Football Coaching and Business Management offers a pathway for experienced coaches, current players and those aspiring to progress within the football industry.

The innovative degree allows students to combine theory and practice with the completion of professional UEFA coaching qualifications along with an undergraduate degree.

Ulster University's Jordanstown Campus also houses the IFA's Elite Youth Academy, which receives backing via UEFA's HatTrick programme. Learn more about the initiative here.