Football Association Staff
Football Association Staff Graduate from University of Worcester
A group of staff from the Football Association, including former professional players, have graduated from the University of Worcester with a postgraduate qualification.
Thirteen members of staff form the first cohort of graduates following a partnership between the University and the FA to enhance coaching skills.
The Postgraduate Certificate (PGCert) in Sports Coaching is delivered at St George’s Park, the national football centre, by University staff. The FA staff undertook three modules of work, including coaching philosophy and practice, leading and managing in sport, and professional placement, which comprised a specific FA project
The first cohort to graduate include former professional footballer, Chris Morris, Tony McCallum, National Coach Development Manager at the FA, Regional Coach Development Managers, Jack Walton, Mark Leigh and Keith Webb, and the FA’s Regional Coach Mentor Officers – Graeme Carrick (North East), Steve Smithies (North West), Samantha Griffiths (East Midlands), Darren Moss (East), and Kevin Green (London/ Armed Forces/ Jersey/ Guernsey). Also graduating were and Regional PE and Coach Education Co-ordinators Lawrence Lok (South East), Senior Regional Coach Mentor, Andy Somers, and Regional Coaching Development Manager, Mark Haining.
A further 12 FA staff are now part way through their studies and will graduate next year.
Dr Andy Cale, from the University of Worcester, who delivers the programme, said: “We are delighted to see our first cohort of graduates from this partnership. The FA are to be congratulated on their ongoing support for the professional development of its senior staff both in terms of coach development and personal growth. This cohort have brought a fantastic depth of personal experience and have applied academic theory to their daily practice.
“They have developed the ability to professionally reflect and question key areas that underpin successful coach education and development. They have been great students who have demonstrated a passion for learning and a genuine commitment to their continuous professional development.”