Memories from our time in Leicester will last a lifetime
It was barely three short months ago that twenty-five strangers from all over the world met, drawn together by a passion for sport, a thirst for knowledge, and the spirit of adventure. Fast forward to today, and the experience of living, learning, and enjoying the UK together has us, in many ways, knowing each other better than we know ourselves.
This month has been full of a diverse array of events – but each with a unique class of ‘25 flavour/zest to it.
This included the two traditional FIFA Master UK football fixtures: the James Panter Cup – the internal match for yearly bragging rights – and the annual FIMBA challenge match against students of the Football Industries MBA in Liverpool. This year’s Panter Cup saw teams coached by our two former professional footballers, Gregory Gomis and Geneva Decker, with Team Gomis coming out victorious after a stunning first half display. Having led 4-0 at the break, Gomis’ side prevailed 6-2 at the fulltime whistle. The fixture against FIMBA not only provided an opportunity to meet (and beat) our colleagues from Liverpool, but also saw the FIFA Master class prevail in a game played in great spirit.
We also came together to celebrate Friendsgiving, with each person bringing a dish, or, in some cases of multiple nationalities, two or three dishes, that represented their individual country or countries’ flavours. The spread of starters, mains, sides, and desserts from around the world included pão de queijo, lasagne, jollof rice, rösti, kakuni, raclette, palačinke, and malva pudding, to name just a few examples!
On the study front, we racked up many miles of travel this month with field visits far and wide to learn from experts and expand our networks. On our visits to Old Trafford and the Etihad Stadium, we were able to meet and learn from some of Manchester United’s and Manchester City’s top administrators. Our visit to the Professional Footballers’ Association provided insight into the professional players’ union in England, and on our visit to St George’s Park, we gained a glimpse behind the FA’s curtain as audience to England’s international facilities.
However, of all of these incredible experiences, for many, one stands head and shoulders above the rest – meeting and speaking to former Premier League manager Sam Allardyce. Big Sam’s openness, honesty, and generosity with his time during a deep-dive Q&A session left a lasting impression on the entire class.
With the Christmas break fast approaching and Milan on the horizon, our Humanities of Sport module at De Montfort University draws to a close, but the memories from our time in Leicester will last a lifetime.
By Jake Zappia
FIFA Master 25th edition student
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FIFA Master - International Master in Management, Law and Humanities of Sport, ranked Europe's No.1 course a record 12 times by SportBusiness.
Organised by CIES in partnership with De Montfort University (UK), SDA Bocconi School of Management (Italy) and the University of Neuchâtel (Switzerland).
