Performance Related

• Training and games led by UEFA-qualified coaching staff
• Strength and conditioning sessions
• Diet and nutrition guidance*
• Sports psychology *
• Individual and small-group technical sessions built around students’ academic timetables
• Access to physiotherapy for injury assessment and rehab referrals
• Minimum of 20 competitive matches per year — with additional fixtures expected
• All games recorded when possible
• Men’s Team: Competing in the Hellenic League, Herefordshire League (Saturday), and British Universities League (Wednesday)
• Player evaluations conducted twice per year with coaching staff
• International tours (optional; additional costs may apply)

* Delivered as a series of sessions throughout the year

UDA High Performance Squad

The UDA High Performance Squad (HPS) will be made up of top-performing student-athletes from both the University of Chester (UoC) and the University of Gloucestershire (UoG). Selection is based on a combination of on- and off-field attributes, with players expected to meet UDA standards across four key areas:

• Physical: Meet required fitness benchmarks
• Technical: Demonstrate strong technical ability
• Tactical: Show a solid understanding of game principles and positional play
• Social: Exhibit strong character, professionalism, and a positive mindset

Selected players will participate in four training camps per year and compete in showcase fixtures against professional academies.

Additionally, players may have the opportunity to travel abroad for further training and matches against professional clubs. While UDA will subsidize part of the cost, individuals selected will be expected to contribute toward the expenses for this international experience.

Facilities

• New match day home: Viney St Swithins Sports Club — a growing, community-centered facility undergoing infrastructure investment as part of a 10-year partnership with UDA
• On-site clubhouse, changing rooms, and matchday facilities with planned upgrades including floodlights and enhanced spectator experience
• UoG Oxstalls Campus — used for technical training, performance sessions, and individualized coaching during academic hours

Playing & Training Kit

• Full Capelli-branded training and matchday kit provided
• Uniform for games, training sessions, and team events

UDA Student Support

• Dedicated UDA Support Officer to assist with social and emotional well-being
• Academic guidance and monitoring in collaboration with UoG’s international student services
• UDA Program Director as primary contact for all program-related questions and support
• Parent Advisory Committee — providing a direct channel for family feedback, updates, and collaboration throughout the student-athlete journey

Transportation

• Round-trip transport provided for all scheduled training and matches at Viney St Swithins from designated UoG residential pickup points

SPARC (Strategic Professional ARC)

• Access to UDA’s career and development program, a three-year related program, provides students with the best opportunity for a career in their chosen field.
• Access to UDA’s “Circle of Success” (Career connections)

360Player Access

• Communication platform for parents and students for program-related needs.
• Pre-season training program, fitness testing
• Hosting of game reports.
• Soccer curriculum developed by all UDA coaches within the UDA organization.