The University of Wolverhampton has entered its tenth consecutive year of partnership with Wolverhampton Wanderers Football Club.
The iconic team was formed almost 150 years ago in 1877 as St Luke’s FC, then changed its name to Wolverhampton Wanderers two years later before becoming one of the founding members of the Football League in 1888.
The partnership between university and football team is a celebrated arrangement that creates opportunities for students and fosters a mutually beneficial relationship between education, football, and the city of Wolverhampton.
Russell Jones, general manager of marketing and commercial growth at Wolverhampton Wanderers (Wolves), said: “Football and education intertwine seamlessly in our successful partnership. Beyond the pitch, Wolves operates as a multifaceted business with departments spanning retail, hospitality, media, and more, offering diverse opportunities for students with varying skill sets. Likewise, the university’s high-end facilities, particularly in the Screen School, elevate the quality of content produced by the club, demonstrating the innovative nature of our collaboration.
“Looking ahead, the partnership opens doors for both institutions locally and internationally. From collaborative courses in India and Sri Lanka to supporting women’s football and grassroots development, our joint efforts continue to expand horizons and drive positive change.”
During the past decade, the university and Wolves have joined forces on various initiatives, including hosting the first live esports event in the city at the university’s Arena Theatre. The Premier League club has also made use of the university’s cutting-edge facilities, including using the Screen School to film their home and away kit launches for the 2023/24 Premier League season.
Professor Ebrahim Adia, vice-chancellor at the university, said: “Our enduring partnership epitomises the strength of collaboration between two significant institutions anchoring the city of Wolverhampton.
“Together we champion community vibrancy, economic prosperity, and global reach, and I know our students thrive through invaluable placements and work experience.”
The collaboration extends to Wolves’ football development department, currently engaged with the university’s thriving sports programmes. The partnership has paved the way for dozens of students to access coaching pathways, spanning from grassroots opportunities to elite international engagements.
Russel Smith, football coaching lecturer at the university, said: “The partnership with Wolves works exceptionally well due to our on-the-ground connections.”
TV presenter Suzi Perry, University of Wolverhampton alum, honorary fellow, and Hall of Fame inductee, commented on the enduring partnership: “I’m a Wolverhampton girl and a proud graduate of the university. The significance of both institutions to our city cannot be overstated.
The significance of both institutions to our city cannot be overstated.
“They are the beating heart of Wolverhampton, serving as beacons that attract people from near and far. Whether it’s students coming to the university or away fans descending on Molineux (Wolves’ stadium), these institutions promote Wolverhampton’s spirit and identity on a grand scale.”
University of Wolverhampton students can of course take full advantage of the partnership, via work experience or even paid roles at the football club. From journalism and reporting opportunities to marketing and video production, students are securing access to vital experiences to take them to the next step in their careers.
Jakub Wisniewski, football coaching and performance student and football development coach at Wolves, said: “Thanks to the partnership, I’ve landed a role as a football development coach, bridging grassroots teams to the academy.
“The support and guidance from my lecturers, coupled with practical experience, has accelerated my journey from student to professional coach.”
Ibraheem Oyetunde, football coaching and performance student and pre-academy coach at Wolves, added: “The university’s support has been invaluable, from settling into student life to gaining practical experience.
“I never thought I would have a coaching role at this stage in my career. I’m incredibly grateful to the university and the partnership at Wolves for allowing me to have this experience.”
