Oxford City players ended the first year of our successful partnership with the University of Oxford by completing the first 'Oxford Football Leadership Programme' with the world-renowned university.

This unique initiative – the first of its kind – marks a major milestone for both the club and the university.

Developed and led by esteemed lecturers from the University of Oxford, the ten-session course focused on leadership in professional sport, equipping our players with skills and insights that extend far beyond the pitch.

The course was just one part of the landmark partnership between the club and the world-renowned university that was formally announced in the summer.

Over the course of ten in-depth sessions, players engaged in interactive discussions and exercises covering key topics such as team dynamics, decision-making under pressure, communication, and resilience – all within the framework of elite-level football with the university's experts.

The programme also saw a range of specially selected guest speakers, talk of their unique experiences/examples of leadership in their respective fields, and at various locations across the university, such as Vincent's Club & Brasenose College.

The programme not only encouraged reflection on individual leadership styles but also fostered a deeper understanding of how leadership can influence team success at all levels of the game.

Upon completion of the course, the players were presented with official certificates from the University of Oxford in recognition of their commitment and achievements.

The ceremony, attended by club staff, university representatives, marked a proud moment in Oxford City’s ongoing investment in player development both on and off the field.

Oxford City owner Justin Merritt said: "You can see why the university is such a world-leading institute.

"I think it goes beyond the buildings and the history, it's about engaging people, having brilliant conversations and asking the right questions and through this course that's been achieved.

"I'm immensely proud of the players and also thankful for what they've put into the course, and also the university, the lecturers and everybody that's been a part of it." 

Professor Alexander Betts, the University of Oxford's Local & Global Engagement Officer said: "It's been amazing seeing the trust that's been built in the group and the confidence amongst the players once they've got into the course.

"The players really opened up and shared a lot of personal stuff, made themselves vulnerable and got to know each other on a personal level as players but also as human beings.

"It's been really nice to see how they've engaged when we've set them exercises, when they've had to stand up and speak, they've been willing to do that and really embrace the course and it's been great to see them flourish."