Football Coach & Sport Lecturer
“I’m originally from Hull and moved to the North East when I was 24 after being asked by the Tech Director to play and coach the Middlesbrough Women’s Football Team. “I’ve always had an interest in sport. I got involved with the local trampolining team at a young age, and ended up competing at county level. Following this I played for Hull and Hull City Football Teams, something which I got into through my family.
“After trying both sports, I decided that football was the route for me – my Mum played for the Women’s England team and my Dad was a referee, so I was always bound to have a career in the world of football!
After realising my passion, I worked really hard to achieve my UEFA A Licence, which is the highest qualification you can get before coaching internationally. There aren’t many people with this in the area so it’s quite an achievement!
“At first I was commuting back and forth from Hull for my role with the women’s team, however after a short amount of time in the role I teamed up with Middlesbrough College to connect them to the local RTC (Regional Talent Club).
“Coincidently a sports lecturer vacancy had also become available at the College. I was asked in for an interview and was thrilled when I was told I’d be offered the position!
“I’d had quite a significant sports injury prior to this which led to me taking around four years out as a player. This period time gave me time to think and led me to naturally progress down the coaching route.
“My role at the College consists of lecturing sports students from 8.30am-5.00pm, and four evenings a week I run the Regional Talent Club programme, with the end goal of seeing those involved progress from new, to experienced players.
“It’s been amazing seeing them all evolve, as well as broadening the number of opportunities available to girls in the local area!
“The team are in the top 6 in the North, playing against the likes of Manchester United which is really exciting. Many have progressed onto playing for the Women’s England Team!
“The team are also currently in the top position of the North East Regional Futsal Mini League. I have coached both the girl’s and boy’s teams when winning 10 championships which has been incredibly rewarding (Girl’s Team: AOC Regional 7 aside champions x 3, AOC National 7 aside champions x 2, North East Regional 11 aside Champions x 2, National 11 aside 4th place x 2. Boy’s Team: Regional 3rd Division Champions).”My job is something I’m really pleased to be involved in. It’s a great feeling to pass on my knowledge and skills to others in the area!”
Looking for a role at the Middlesbrough College Group? Take a look at our latest job vacancies here