Northern Ireland senior men’s team manager Ian Baraclough has been discussing the merits of performance analysis with students on a degree course run by Ulster University in partnership with the Irish Football Association.
The BSc Hons Football Coaching and Business Management degree is usually delivered on a fast track part-time basis at the National Football Stadium at Windsor Park, however during the Covid-19 pandemic it is being delivered remotely.
And in an online session the Northern Ireland boss discussed various topics with students on the course, although the main focus was on how coaches and players utilise performance analysis in their day to day roles.
'It was a fantastic insight into football at the top level of the game which touched on so many of the learning outcomes across a number of modules the students are studying'
Course director Kyle Ferguson said: “We were delighted Ian made himself available to speak to all the students on the degree course. The partnership between Ulster University and the Irish FA provides unique opportunities for our students to hear from experts such as Ian throughout their studies.
“It was a fantastic insight into football at the top level of the game which touched on so many of the learning outcomes across a number of modules the students are studying, such as performance analysis, strategic business management and coaching.
“It was also an inspiring session for the students which is so badly needed at the minute given the individual pressures everyone is facing due to Covid-19. In particular Ian discussed the importance of not setting a ceiling as a player or a coach. For students studying football this was an invaluable lesson.”
Northern Ireland senior men's manager Ian Baraclough on the video call with students from Ulster University
Student Thomas Moreland was impressed by what he heard from the international manager.
He said: “The session re-energised me. I have already arranged to connect with the youth team I run and set challenges for them.”
Co-designed by Ulster University and the Irish FA, the BSc Hons Football Coaching and Business Management offers a pathway for experienced coaches, current players and those aspiring to progress within the football industry.
The innovative degree allows students to combine theory and practice with the completion of professional UEFA coaching qualifications along with an undergraduate degree.
