Joshua Ogbonna | My Journey with Team Warwick American Football
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Can you tell us about your journey into your sport and what inspired you to get involved with Team Warwick?
I’ve been involved in sports for as long as I can remember. I started with football in primary school and then played basketball and rugby in secondary school. I’ve always loved competing at my best, but what truly motivates me is the team aspect of sport. For me, there’s no greater feeling than stepping onto the field alongside teammates I’ve trained and bonded with.
I’m a degree apprentice and I first heard about the American Football team through a colleague at work who recommended I give it a try. I went to a training session and was immediately drawn to the structure and feel. I knew it was the perfect environment for me to grow, develop, and compete alongside my teammates
What does your typical week look like as part of Team Warwick?
Typically, the team trains twice a week on Tuesday and Thursday. These are intense and focused sessions; the coaches really push us to be the best we can be leading up to match day on the Sunday.
We currently play in the BUCS Premier North Division and its always tough competition, so we have to prepare well. Usually there will be 1 or 2 social events a week including NFL Sundays where the team comes together to watch the NFL games that weekend.
How do you balance your academic commitments with training and competitions?
Training and competitions never clash with any academic commitments, so outside that, it’s all about time management. I know that every Tuesday, Thursday and Sunday I'm training or playing a game, so I make sure I complete my academic work outside of those windows. I don't find it too difficult now, especially as I have been doing it for 2 years.
What kind of support have you received through Team Warwick and what difference has it made to your experience?
Team Warwick has given me access to great facilities, which I have used for training sessions. Team Warwick staff are helpful when answering any questions I have in my role as President, and I am grateful for the support they have given me.
What has been the biggest challenge in your sporting journey, and how did you overcome it?
I started training with the American Football Team a couple of weeks after the taster sessions, so I missed the initial sessions and felt I was playing catch-up. Fortunately, the coaches were very supportive, and I dedicated time outside of training to understand the sport so that I could make an impact.
Early on, I made an impact in games and developed more to become a bona fide player. Although it was challenging at first, consistent hard work and the support of my coaches helped me overcome the initial late start and grow into my role on the team.
How has Team Warwick helped you develop professionally and what opportunities has it given you?
Team Warwick has given me the opportunity to play a sport I now love, whilst also allowing me to benefit from professional development. As President, I have gained many skills which I will benefit from further into my career.
What role have your teammates, coaches, or support staff played in your journey?
My teammates have always been supportive and have made the sport for me. I have been so proud to stand alongside them, whether it was the BUCS Final or a Sunday training session.
The coaches and support staff have been pivotal in my journey and have shaped and developed me as a player from day 1. The support staff, such as Nick, the head camera operator, have also helped the team and my own development.
How has your sporting experience shaped your wellbeing and sense of belonging at the University of Warwick?
Sport has given me a great outlet to relax and take my mind off any stress. Sport has not only given me a sense of structure outside of academics, but also a support structure which I can rely on. The sense of belonging within the team has made me want to work for a purpose alongside everyone else.
What are your current sporting goals and how are you being supported in reaching them?
I currently want to keep improving in my sport and aspire to win not only with my team at Warwick, but my club team that I play for in Coventry. My coaches around me also support me in my personal development as well as my teammates who push me every day to be better.
What advice would you give to someone thinking about joining a club, performance team, or applying for a scholarship at Warwick?
Joining the Warwick Wolves American Football team was one of the best decisions I have made, not only at university but in my personal life. As a new student, it is the perfect place to meet good people and make friends.
The Wolves attract genuine, respectful people and provide a great social environment. The coaching staff are nothing short of phenomenal, both as coaches and as people.
Did Team Warwick influence your decision to study at the University of Warwick? If so, how?
Team Warwick did indeed influence my decision to choose Warwick. The strength of the sports community and the opportunity to join a high-level team were key factors that made Warwick stand out to me. Knowing I could combine a strong academic environment with a vibrant sports culture made Warwick an ideal choice and the perfect environment to incubate my sporting and academic interests.
Charlie Nova Content Contributor, Warwick Sport
Charlie is passionate about fitness, health, and wellbeing. He enjoys climbing, lifting, running, football, and is always eager to try new sports.
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