COVENTRY University students teamed up with Birmingham City’s first-team squad to put them through pre-season tests.
Most of the blues squad went to campus on June 20 to start preparing for the new season.
Students collected blood samples, tested players’ strength, and put them through their paces before reporting back to the playing and coaching staff.
The Birmingham squad has used Coventry University’s facilities in the past.
Birmingham captain Troy Deeney said: “Obviously the facilities here are great, but anywhere can boast state-of-the-art facilities – it’s really all about the people and I feel like Coventry University has got the culture and the environment spot on here.”
“I feel as though there’s a real fine mix between learning, enjoyment and a pathway to being professional and obtaining a job at the end of it.
“It’s good for the students and the players alike and everyone is striving for excellence and perfection so I think it’s mutually beneficial.”
Dr Jason Tallis and Dr Rhys Morris were the driving forces behind making the opportunity a reality and Assistant Professor Dr Emma Eyre played a crucial role in delivering and overseeing the testing alongside students.
Sports and exercise science student Dan Kiernan, who has just completed a placement year with Coventry City, said: “Experiences like these for anyone aspiring to work in elite professional sport are vital.
“To be able to hone our skills, work effectively and efficiently under pressure alongside established professionals and trust ourselves to deliver is a really empowering and important opportunity.”
