Football icon and Alex Ferguson’s right-hand man Mike Phelan shared his coaching tips in an exclusive session with students at Burnley College.
Students studying sport coaching and sport science across all levels engaged in an enlightening masterclass led the former Premier League coach.
The afternoon kicked off in the college’s sports hall with an inspiring session on careers in professional sport where Mike shared his journey from playing to coaching at the highest level.
The learners gained invaluable advice on how to succeed in the challenging and competitive industry.
Next, students took to our advanced 4G pitch for a real-world coaching session, where Mike led drills based around the same ones which allowed him to coach a team to legendary level. He also shared tactical insights and gave real-time feedback.
His team was particularly impressed with Burnley College and Fitness Evolution’s facilities:
“They are exceptional; equivalent to academy level facilities.
“The strength and conditioning focus is perfect and the college uses the right technology for improvement and development.
“The students get an immersive experience as to what an industry setting is really like in professional football.”
To end the day, the students participated in an informative question and answer session, gaining a deeper insight into the mindset, discipline and passion required to succeed in an elite sport.
Come see us at our next Open Event: https://www.burnley.ac.uk/whats-on/events/burnley-college-sixth-form-centre-open-evening-18-nov-2025/
