Aneke is one of the few professional footballers with a University Degree.
He graduated from the Ebonyi State University with a degree in Political Science.
Edeucation has improved my career - Aneke
By Ojeikere Aikhoje
naijapremierleague,net
Nigeria’s rave-of-the-moment, Jude Aneke, has revealed that education
has contributed immensely to his development as a professional
footballer.
The Political Science graduate of Ebonyi State University, who plays for Kaduna United, reached the zenith of his career as a footballer in Nigeria’s top flight when he became the first player ever to hit the 20-goal mark.
Aneke made history in style as he scored a hat-trick against
Niger Tornadoes to take his tally to 20. Interestingly, it was his
second hat-trick this term after scoring against Lobi Stars in their
4-2 win back in August.
“My success in football is a combination of the application of
principles learnt at the University and on the field. I didn't want to
waste my talent in football, but I worked for my degree first.
“I now understand the psychology of my teammates and even opponents on
the field. I know when to make a run and when not to. It has also
helped my positioning which enables me to be at the right place, at
the right time.
“Education has made me a smarter footballer because you’ve to use your
brain to make decisions which will determine the next action.
“I never missed lectures in school. In fact, I loved the routine since
I have to wake up early for trainings and then head for lectures. My
football trainings in the morning also me made brighter in class
because my brain worked better,” he told naijapremierleague.net
Football in School:
Aneke represented an amateur team, Mgbo Ambassadors, during his time
in school.
“It was a small club that played in the amateur league and grassroots
competitions, in Ebonyi State. I wasn’t concerned about money then
because I’ve always been passionate about football.
“I joined the club when I was in 200 Level and played till my 300
Level, but I took a short break because of the pressure in my final
year. I had a lot to do especially my project defence.
"Besides, I wanted to graduate so as to concentrate on football later
school,” he said to naijapremierleague.net.
Although he never made it to the Nigerian team for the World
University Games (FISU), the West African University Games (WAUG), and
his school failed to qualify for the Nigeria University Games (NUGA),
Aneke said he enjoyed his time playing football.
“The University of Nigeria Nsukka (UNN) ensured my school never made
it to NUGA. Ebonyi State University was always eliminated during the
zonal play-offs by UNN, but I was fulfilled representing my school.
“My lecturers and colleagues were always impressed with my
performance. We also played in the Nigeria University Football League
(NUFOL),” Aneke stated.
Career Breakthrough:
Aneke got his breakthrough in football even before he graduated as the
state owned club, Ebonyi Angels, then campaigning in Nigeria’s second
tier football class had identified him as a transfer target.
“The coaches in Ebonyi Angels scouted me when my team, Mgbo
Ambassadors played against them in the finals of the state FA Cup.
After my graduation, I joined Ebonyi Angels,” he stated.
The forward’s football development took another curve when Ebonyi
Angels was disbanded.
“The club was sold to Anambra United and I was one of the players that
eventually joined the new club.
“I was playing for Anambra United when Kaduna United scouts noticed
me. The coach, Maurice Cooreman liked my performance and gave me a
deal.
"My former classmates are exicted wiith my progress in football,” he
said to naijapremierleague.net
NPL Career Goals:
NPL
2009/2010: 12 goals
2010/2011: 20 goals
Hat-trick:
vs Lobi Stars
vs: Niger Tornadoes
Brace:
Week 3 vs: Crown
Week 22 vs: Kwara United
Week 30 vs Zamfara United
Week 32 vs 3SC
