Sporty Little Obsessions
List · 4 items

Sporty Little Obsessions

Callum OgdenCallum Ogden · 0 likes
4 items
ListSports · People/Blogs

Sporty Little Obsessions

Callum Ogden
@ogden_builds
4Items
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When I’m not in the lab pretending to understand biochem, I’m either legging it to a match or convincing my mates that five-a-side definitely counts as cardio. These are the spots that are basically my second campus – from the Etihad (obviously) to the random places I end up doing ‘one quick session’ that turns into three hours. Proper mixed bag, all sound in their own way, and all within striking distance when you’re mad for it and your seminar just got cancelled.

The list

Rank
Sporty Little Obsessions — 4 items
NameTypeAddressCityVibeMy take
1Etihad StadiumFootball stadiumRowsley Street, Manchester M11 3FFManchesterSky blue, massive, loud when it mattersHome. I still get goosebumps walking up from the tram – treble flashbacks, dad on FaceTime, me absolutely howling every time we put four past someone. Even on non-match days it’s class just wandering round Sportcity feeling like a tiny speck in Pep’s univ
2Old TraffordFootball stadiumSir Matt Busby Way, Old Trafford, Manchester M16 0RAManchesterRed, historic, slightly haunted by away limbsLook, I’m City through and through, but as a football nerd I can’t pretend this place isn’t iconic. Going there as an away fan is pure adrenaline – bit hostile, bit touristy, very ‘theatre of dreams’ if your dream is nicking a scruffy 1–0 and legging it b
3Platt Fields ParkPublic park with courts and BMX trackMabfield Road off Wilmslow Road, Fallowfield, Manchester M14 6LPManchesterGreen, scruffy, always something going onMy brain: ‘go for a gentle jog round the lake.’ Me: ends up playing pickup basketball, watching BMX races and sitting in the grass eating cold pizza. On a sunny day it’s absolutely rammed with students pretending this is part of their ‘training plan’.
4Powerleague Manchester Central (Ardwick)5/7-a-side football centre20 Union Street, Ardwick, Manchester M12 4JDManchesterFloodlights, banter, suspiciously slick astroturfProper ‘serious casual’ footy – everyone claims they’re just here for a laugh then starts sliding into tackles like it’s the Champions League. Post-game debrief in the car park is elite: someone’s wearing mouldies, someone’s blown after 10 minutes, everyo