WFA and UA92 Forge Partnership to Foster Inclusive Educational Opportunities

The Wheelchair Football Association (WFA) are delighted to partner with higher education provider UA92 to enhance pathways into sports, media, digital, and business industries for its community.

Founded by the Class of ‘92 and Lancaster University, UA92 stands out for its commitment to making higher education more accessible, championing the principles of social mobility and inclusivity through a range of degree and higher education courses that are led by industry insights. In its drive to modernise and innovate within higher education, UA92 collaborates with over 80 industry partners to ensure its curriculum remains contemporary and relevant, equipping students with a deep understanding of potential career paths via mentorships, guest lectures, and work experience opportunities.

Through this partnership, The WFA and UA92 are set to offer real-world experiences such as guest lectures, workshops, mentoring, and work placements. These opportunities are designed to equip students with the skills needed for careers in sports management, coaching, media, and other relevant fields. UA92 students will get directly involved with WFA projects, gaining insights into the practical aspects of sports management. 

This collaboration also opens doors for WFA players and the wider Powerchair Football community to access UA92’s innovative and accessible educational offerings, aligning with our goal to support career development in sports, education and beyond. 

Dean Williams, WFA Chairperson, said: 

“We are thrilled to announce a groundbreaking partnership with UA92, a collaboration born from a shared dedication to fostering opportunity and inclusivity. This alliance was sparked by Spencer Fearn’s introduction, leading us to discover our mutual commitment to empowering individuals. At the WFA, creating opportunities for all is our cornerstone, a vision that UA92 embodies by providing its students with unparalleled access to education and growth.

This partnership will see us combine our expertise in Powerchair and disability football with the innovative educational approach of UA92. We are set to enrich the student experience by integrating practical involvement in WFA projects and events across various departments, further aligning with our mission to bring our sport to a wider audience. For our athletes with aspirations in sports education, UA92 presents an exceptional and accessible pathway.

I am filled with anticipation for the potential this partnership holds. Together, we are set to not only achieve our respective goals but also to make a profound impact on the lives of many. The future of this collaboration promises to be a beacon of inclusivity, opportunity, and educational excellence.”

Sara Prowse, CEO of UA92, said:

“Our founding principles are accessibility, social mobility and inclusivity; we’re committed to making higher education accessible to all, no matter the background, and offer support and financial packages to underpin these commitments, making the career of dreams attainable to many.  Our values are perfectly aligned with The Wheelchair Football Association and we are delighted to be working in partnership.

“Already we have collaborated on course development and guest lectures, and we are only just getting started.  I can foresee some very unique and leading-edge developments coming from our work together and it is exciting to imagine what a difference we will be able to make in many people’s careers and dreams.”