AFC Bournemouth
Each year Bournemouth University celebrate their role as the official higher education partner of AFC Bournemouth through the BU Big Match.
Each year Bournemouth University celebrate their role as the official higher education partner of AFC Bournemouth through the BU Big Match.
This year’s BU Big Match took place against Brentford on Saturday 24th April and ahead of the match players including goalkeeper Asmir Begovic warmed up in t-shirts bearing the partnership logo, with a range of activities promoted on social media.
BU’s logos adorned the advertising around the pitch and Cherries head coach Jonathan Woodgate wore a BU pin in support of the partnership.
On the afcbTV live stream, season ticket holders were shown an advert at half time, highlighting partnership activity and showcasing the university’s support of their local team.
Ian Jones, head of external engagement at Bournemouth University, said: “We’re delighted to be working so closely with AFC Bournemouth and supporting our local team for the benefit of staff, students, supporters and the local community.
“It was great to be able to celebrate the partnership through the BU Big Match this year and we wish the Cherries the best of luck for the rest of the season as they push towards the Premier League.”
Ahead of the BU Big Match, two Cherries players engaged with BU students to help them with their education.
Midfielder Jack Wilshere took part in a mock press conference with journalism and media students to give them the chance to practice their skills in an ‘as-real’ environment.
Multimedia Journalism student James Gray won the opportunity for his write up of the event to be featured on the afcb.co.uk website.
Winger David Brooks also took part in a Q&A with students, talking about how he looks after himself and works with the fitness and nutrition teams at the club.
Amy Marks, partnerships manager at AFC Bournemouth, added: “Our partnership with Bournemouth University is one that we are very proud of and being able to connect the club and the local student community through activations such as the BU Big Match is not only rewarding but beneficial to both parties.”
BU’s social media channels were full of pictures and videos highlighting partnership activity, including a special message from Woodgate. Highlights of the BU Big Match social media activity could also be found on Instagram.
For more information about BU’s partnership with AFC Bournemouth visit www.bournemouth.ac.uk/afc-bournemouth.
