Around 20 young people attended the event, where they had the opportunity to explore the course, tour the facilities and hear directly from former Premier League striker and FC United of Manchester player Adam Le Fondre, who will lead the programme as Head of Football for the relaunched FC United Academy. Attendees described the evening as inspirational, gaining first-hand insight into how the course will combine academic study with elite football coaching in a professional performance environment.
The strong turnout reflects the growing excitement around the two-year, full-time course, which launches in September 2026 and is designed for 16 to 19-year-olds aspiring to progress into semi-professional or professional football, sports coaching, sports science, or further study.
Due to the positive response, The Manchester College and FC United of Manchester will be holding a second Open Evening on Thursday 12 March, from 5.30pm to 7.30pm, at Broadhurst Park Stadium. Full booking details will be published shortly. In the meantime, anyone seeking further information is encouraged to contact Adam Le Fondre directly by email at adam.le.fondre@fc-utd.net
The course forms part of a wider partnership between the College and the club, rooted in shared values of opportunity, community and ambition for young people across North Manchester and beyond. Delivered at FC United’s Broadhurst Park Stadium, the programme offers students access to high-quality facilities, expert teaching, personalised support and clear progression routes within the sports industry.
Applications for the Level 3 Sport and Physical Activity (Sports Coaching) course are now being accepted via The Manchester College website: Physical Activity & Sports Coaching | Level 3 Diploma | FC United Partnership, with the first cohort beginning their studies in the 2026/27 academic year.
For aspiring young footballers and sports professionals, the upcoming Open Evening offers another chance to see how education and elite football development can come together in a unique and inspiring environment.
