2020 has seen the world change before our very eyes, the Coronavirus has managed to shutdown parts of the world simultaneously – resulting in grief across the globe.
Sport is no exception to this grief, as competition for various athletes had been put on halt, and the stands at stadiums have been left abandoned.
Below the professional game, University and grassroots football has felt the full force of this devastating pandemic.
Zak Sallows recently took over as president of UEL football, looking to carry on the amazing work done by his predecessor Mohammed Sheiknor.
Unfortunately, Zak’s progress with the UEL teams has been drastically impacted by the effects of the virus.
In a recent press conference Zak discussed the challenges the University faces during the pandemic and current lockdown.
Togetherness at UEL
“Making sure the groundwork is in place for the return of football is crucial, communications must be strong”. Zak stressed the importance of ensuring the administration side of the game was in order during the pandemic, without Zak and his staffs relentless work off the field the team’s structure may weaken.
Zak who is completing his third year at the University, is privileged to have head of football, Ryan Gordon for support. Gordon’s experience at the highest level, has aided Zak in keeping the teams spirits up.
Ryan is no stranger to pressure, having worked within the professional industry at clubs such as Norwich City and Arsenal FC.
The effects of the virus have caused numerous difficulties for UEL football with most notably matches and training being put on hold.
Season Ambitions
However with the latest lockdown ending on December 2nd Zak is excited about what the future holds: “The perfect scenario would be for us to get some training in before the end of term. Hopefully if the restrictions are lifted, we can enter our BUCS league in January, and all three of our teams can win the league, that’s the aim.”
Players were given training programs at the beginning of the academic year to follow, with regular check-ups on their physical and mental health. Football and sport in general are a freedom of expression, with players not able to compete, Zak and his staff must keep the student athletes motivated.
The 21 year old, mentioned the players are licking their lips at the thought of competition returning. “The first team love the away games, playing the very best teams from the West makes them happy. Our 2nd team have developed a rivalry with the Essex team over the years, a strong local rivalry.”
Despite no physical competition, there are positives to be taken away from this challenging year for UEL football. “The players have shown an ability to adapt to change, players and managers have accepted the new norm and look to overcome it.”
Cleaning of facilities and equipment is crucial in ensuring the safety of staff and players. “Everything is regularly cleaned, and checks are regulated, us staff must prepare to ensure our players are prepared.”
Players Appreciation
Zak and Ryan’s tireless efforts have not gone unnoticed, first team player, Fergal Hale-Brown stated, “The team builder activities have helped during the lockdown, logging in online lets us see everyone’s development in the team, Zak and Ryan have been pivotal in keeping us going.”
Finally, despite lockdown restrictions being lifted in December, the BUCS league have remained tight-lipped on any news of competition. Zak mentioned during the presser, “Time plays a huge part with how many games we can play, we will hear on news from the league and act on it accordingly.”
Hopes remain for competitive competition to go on until April, the UEL football team need all the support they can get, get down to football game of theirs whenever you can!
