Each month, CITC is spotlighting its work and programmes through the voices and stories of its participants across Manchester.
In the latest story, we hear from Hafsa and Katie, who both study on the BSc (Hons) Sport Coaching Degree in partnership with Manchester Metropolitan University (MMU).
The programmes bring together CITC’s community football coaching knowledge with Manchester Metropolitan’s academic expertise, to offer the best of both worlds and an integrated path to rewarding career goals.
The degree combines classroom - and practical - based teaching at MMU’s newly launched Institute of Sport with work-based learning at the state-of-the-art Etihad Campus.
Hafsa and Katie sat down with a member of the CITC team to discuss their journey and involvement in sport, as well as why they think it is important for women to get involved in the sport industry.
Hafsa:
“In a world where sports have been dominated by men, it’s inspiring to see an increase in the involvement of young women breaking barriers and pursuing their passion for sports.
“As a young woman from an ethnic minority, entering a sports industry with limited representation is challenging.
“It makes me feel determined and motivated to break barriers, challenge stereotypes, and pave the way for other ethnic minorities like me who have the same career aspirations but lack a role model.
“The degree programme offers a range of exciting opportunities; access to first class facilities, expert coaching and mentoring, networking with the industry professionals etc.
“This will further enhance my coaching ability and ensure I have the correct leaderships skills in order for me to become an expert in the field.
“Ambitions for the future include becoming an expert in the coaching field; pushing myself outside my comfort zone to enable me to grow and learn as a person, as well as being a role model for young girls and women, advocating for diversity and inclusion in the sports industry.
“The future of the sports industry holds promise for young girls and women. The increase in young girls brings fresh perspectives and come with a drive to challenge status quo.
“The increase of the support and recognition means that we can expect to see more female athletes and coaches making their mark.”
Katie:
“I have always been passionate and interested in sports since I was little. I grew up playing football from the age of four and have always loved it and been passionate about it.
“When I came across the degree programme it looked perfect for me and seemed like a great opportunity for a pathway into a career in football.
“It feels good to be a breaking into the sports industry as a young woman, especially when you can see all the opportunities for us in the industry and you get to see it first-hand around CITC whilst on this programme.
“I think that if the current women in sport continue to be great role models for young girls and continue inspiring them to play and get involved in sport then I envisage a positive future.
“I’ve seen it first hand with the City Women’s team with being a season ticket holder. On match days three years ago one side of the stadium would be open.
“Whereas now for most games all four sides of the stadium are open, and the attendance is so much bigger than what it was, which is great for young girls to witness.”
Keep an eye out for more female stories in the coming month as CITC celebrate International Women’s Day on March 8.
City in the Community empowers healthier lives with city youth through football.
To find out more, visit www.mancity.com/CITC or follow the charity on social media @CITCManCity.charity on social media @CITCmancity.
