Neil Cox conducts Q&A session with North Lindsey College students

While Neil Cox, his staff and players can't directly get out into the community as they did prior to Christmas, due to the lockdown, the Iron manager did give an hour of his time to North Lindsey College students to conduct a virtual question and answer session with the learners.

Over 40 students at the local college joined the Zoom chat on Thursday afternoon, with the Iron manager first answering a number of questions about the industry, his career and the skills required to work in professional football.

All of the learners were from across three courses at the college and are working towards either a Level 1 Sport and Uniformed services qualification, a Level 2 Sports programme or a Level 3 Sport and Exercise Science cerificate, with the Iron boss putting across his experience in coaching, management and working with professional footballers.

The exit route options for many of these students could involve work in the professional sports industry, with a number going onto university to further their learning and qualifications. Jobs include sports scientists, nutritionalists, sports coaches and strength and conditioning coaches, all of which are paramount to a football club's backroom operation. To find out more about the course at North Lindsey College, click here.

Following the session, Programme Tutor Stuart Beevers said: "Thanks, Neil! Neil spent an hour of his busy schedule to speak to our learners about working in professional sport and an insight into what skills and qualities are needed.

"It was also great for our learners to speak to him and ask questions about the highs of his career. An insight to working in professional football! A fantastic opportunity for our learners at North Lindsey College!"

Meanwhile, Curriculum Leader in Sport, Uniformed Services and Animal Management Ian Hamilton added: ""It was a great way for the students to finish for half term.

"The students asked some great questions linking to employability and the sports industry. I'd like to thank Scunthorpe United and Neil for taking time out of his busy schedule to speak to the students."

The Iron would also like to thank North Lindsey College for the ongoing use of some of their facilities while they are closed to students, which has helped provide space for rehabilitation of our injured players and provided an alternative venue during the period of inclement weather.