Ake took part in a classroom-based session that focused on the importance of educating students and aspiring footballers about nutrition, touching on what nutrition is key to their diets when they are playing.
Ake discussed with students what he eats before games to ensure he has the energy and nutrition to help him perform.
Commenting on the day, the Dutch defender said: “Most of the time I eat chicken, proteins, things like that.
“If we have a game very quickly after the last one, most of the time we eat rice and stuff like that to make sure we recover and have the fuel again for the next one [match].”
After a Q&A session, Ake also participated in a fun nutrition focused quiz with the group of BTEC students from across the four colleges CITC work with.
CITC’s BTEC programme aims to be totally inclusive, offering places to both male and female participants without trials.
Coaches deliver a holistic education of football, supporting those who want to develop their skills and abilities on the pitch as well as receiving a classroom-based education.
The programme provides an opportunity for students who are passionate about football and their education, to combine the two as part of this course.
One participant from Connell College said: “I think it is amazing how we can combine the football course and the education, because it really makes me look forward to college knowing that I am also getting the qualification, but I can have fun at the same time.”
As well as discussing his own nutritional plan with BTEC students, Ake took part in a quiz based around important nutrients and the best things to eat before playing football.
The curriculum provides students with an insight into what life would be like coaching in an academy setting through the way in which CITC staff deliver sessions.
The team currently delivers in four sixth forms and colleges – Oldham College, Cheadle College, Ashton Sixth Form College, Connell Co-op College.
Coaches are able to adapt their approach, the content and physical activity session in order to best meet the requirements of the college/group that they are working with.
The Charity’s reporting for the year started in September 2022 and since that date CITC have reached more than 300 participants across more than 700 sessions.
For more information about CITC’s BTEC programme email Jonathan.pauley@cityfootball.com or attend one of the open evenings and days the colleges offer and meet some of the team.
Ake’s video forms part of CITC’s month long spotlight on its Inspires and BTEC programmes, helping to celebrate International Day of Education.
City in the Community moves with city youth to empower healthier lives through football. To find out more, visit www.mancity.com/CITC or follow them on social media @CITCmancity.
