As a University of East London (UEL) Alumnus, entrepreneur and professional footballer, Amadou Kassarate understands first-hand the pivotal role his environment played in propelling him to excel in academics, business, and elite sports. With a desire to offer invaluable insights to the next generation of students from Haberdasher students therefore, he took the initiative to craft an immersive experience day at UEL.
The Haberdashers X UEL Experience Day proved to be an exhilarating and insightful journey for the participating Year 10 and Year 12 Haberdashers’ Hatcham College students. Students were given a blend of academic insight and practical exposure, in an event that left a lasting impression on the young minds who were eager to explore the life of an undergraduate elite athlete.
Hosted at the vibrant Docklands campus of UEL, I kicked off the event with a warm welcome, setting the tone for a day filled with learning and discovery. The students were introduced to the East London Sport Talent Pathway programme through a comprehensive presentation, shedding light on the opportunities and challenges of pursuing excellence at Uni through academics and sports.
One of the highlights of the day was the tour of the state-of-the-art sports facilities, where the students got a firsthand look at the cutting-edge equipment and resources available to elite athletes. From high-tech sports labs to the Aqua East strength and conditioning centre, every aspect of the facility is designed to optimise performance and support athlete development.
Under the guidance of professional coaches, the students immersed themselves in a series of rigorous training sessions at the strength and conditioning centre, pushing their physical limits and honing their skills. The experience extended beyond the field. The students had the opportunity to interact with physiotherapists and explore the sports therapy and rehab centre, gaining valuable insights into injury prevention and recovery strategies such as the Avant pool ice bath.
A lifestyle workshop provided a holistic perspective on athlete development, emphasising the importance of balancing performance with well-being. Discussions ranged from nutrition and sleep, to time management and mental health, equipping the students with essential life skills beyond the realm of sports.
The culmination of the day took place after lunch. The group witnessed the BUCS premier division quarter-final basketball clash between UEL and Newcastle University, a thrilling spectacle that showcased the intensity and passion of university sports. Immersed in the electric atmosphere of the game, the students were captivated, gaining a deeper appreciation for the dedication and teamwork required to excel at the highest level.
Overall, the Haberdashers X East London Sport experience day was a resounding success, inspiring the next generation of Habs students who want to pursue the dual pathway of education and elite sport to pursue their dreams with passion and perseverance. By bridging the gap between academia and athletics, the event demonstrated the transformative power of sports in shaping lives such as my own and fostering community spirit.
Amadou Kassarate, member of the Freedom, and Haberdashers’ Hatcham Alumnus
