Ashton United FC

Over recent weeks Ashton United has been working with the University & College of Football Business (UCFB), Burnley to introduce students to the football environment. A team of four students from UCFB will be joining the backroom team at Ashton to learn about the machinations of football at Non League level.

Director Steve Hobson, who will be mentoring the students said, 'Who knows this project may well see a future Premier League Club Chief Executive learn his or her craft at Hurst Cross? UCFB recognises the huge benefits of their students learning about football at our level of the game. In working with the students through an internship at our club we will help them with their education and at the same time reap the benefits of support from the University, and all its infrastuctural support to its sytudents'

The students will experience all areas within the club from commercial activities through, matchday hospitality to secretarial duties and even washing the kit. Work has already begun with the student 'Team Leader' Michael Brown contributing to articles in the match day programmes. Here Michael introduces himself to fans:
Name: Michael Brown
Age: 19
Degree: Football Business & Media

I started studying for a degree in ‘Football Business & Media’ at UCFB in September, 2011. I have been provided with opportunities to work within the football environment that money can’t buy. Being able to consult for Ashton United and support the staff and volunteers within the club is one of these.

I am very grateful to both my university and the football club for this chance to put my learning into practice; as well as combining it with my active interest in football and sport as whole.

I am a local boy from Oldham so I understand how important football is to the local community. It is what people look forward to at the weekend and being in the North-West, it has a number of clubs around the region, making football both popular and very competitive.

Football fans are very proud of their clubs, and Ashton United supporters are no exception. This is why I am going to make sure I give 100% to the club, as well as learn from staff that have run Ashton for many years.

I look forward to seeing some of you around Hurst Cross, come on you Robins!

Over the coming weeks we will introduce you to the other members of the team and keep everyone updated with the student's are up to and their progress within the club.