meet the coaches

HEAD OF COACHING

Driven by his passion for coaching and player development, Jim attained the prestigious UEFA A Licence, the highest on field qualification in Football. With over 25 years dedicated to professional Football Coaching, he has consistently upheld the highest standards. As Lead Coach at both AFC Bournemouth Academy and Southampton FC, Jim had the privilege of working with many local Academy players on the South Coast, who went on to achieve successful professional football careers in the Premier League and Football League, as well as representing their countries. In addition to his extensive coaching experience, Jim has also worked as a Personal Trainer for over 27 years, further enhancing his expertise in player strength and conditioning, to maximise athletic performance.

LEAD ACADEMY COACH & HEAD OF SOCCER SCHOOLS

Niall brings over 20 years of coaching experience to the Academy, having worked with professional Football Academies in both London and the South Coast. He works closely with our partner Academy at AFC Bournemouth to ensure a smooth transition for players moving through the development pathway. With a wealth of knowledge and expertise, Niall provides players with the highest standard of coaching to support their progression. Prior to coaching, Niall enjoyed a successful playing career and spent several years as a Football Freestyle professional. His impressive portfolio includes working as a Football Skills Choreographer for leading brands such as Adidas and Pepsi, providing the Choreography to their World Cup and European Championship television commercial campaigns. Niall had the unique privilege of Directing and Choreographing international stars, including David Beckham, Frank Lampard, Thierry Henry and many other footballing icons.

ACADEMY CO-ORDINATOR

With a degree in Sports Development and Coaching Sciences from the University of Bournemouth, Coach Dave brings extensive knowledge and experience to his role as Academy Co-ordinator. He is instrumental in maintaining our partnership with AFC Bournemouth Academy, working closely to co-ordinate fixtures and monitor player progressions. By utilising advanced coaching techniques, Coach Dave is committed to maximising player development, ensuring that every individual receives the support and guidance needed to reach their full potential.

LEAD GOALKEEPER COACH

Stewart is a former professional footballer who played for Sheffield Wednesday, with an extensive career in lower league and non-league football. His rich playing background is complemented by a vast coaching career. Alongside his role at the Academy, Stewart is an Academy Goalkeeper Coach at AFC Bournemouth. With experience working alongside some of the top goalkeepers in the country, Stewart is an expert in his field, dedicated to developing the next generation of top level goalkeepers.

LEAD ACADEMY COACH

Ross brings over 16 years of coaching experience, having worked across various levels of football throughout his career. His previous roles include coaching at the Southampton FC Pre-Academy and spending two seasons with the Vancouver Whitecaps Academy, in Major League Soccer. In addition to his football expertise, Ross is also the Head Coach at Lawrence Boys Boxing Club, which has further expanded his coaching knowledge and skill set. A passionate and dedicated coach, Ross is committed to inspiring players to reach the highest level possible, with his extensive knowledge and expertise.

LEAD ACADEMY COACH

In addition to his role with the Academy, Ollie coaches at AFC Bournemouth Academy, working across the Pre-Academy phase. This experience allows him to effectively support the transition of our Academy players into professional clubs. Ollie’s deep understanding of player development stems from his own youth football career, having played throughout his time at AFC Bournemouth Academy. His first-hand experience in both coaching and as a former player makes him a valuable asset in guiding players on their journey to the next level.

LEAD ACADEMY COACH

Previously the Head Coach of Bashley U23s and currently First Team Coach for Brockenhurst Men’s First Team, Sam brings extensive coaching experience to the Academy. With a background in teaching, Sam employs a variety of coaching styles to optimise player development.

LEAD ACADEMY COACH

Harry is a highly experienced semi-professional footballer, having spent four successful seasons with Bashley FC and currently playing for Brockenhurst FC. His extensive playing career, combined with his strong coaching background, equips him with the skills to create an exceptional learning environment for players. Harry’s approach focuses on blending his on-pitch expertise with tailored coaching methods, ensuring players are supported in their Footballing development. 

LEAD ACADEMY COACH

Coach Nico is a semi-professional footballer with AFC Totton, bringing valuable playing experience into his coaching role at the Academy. His first-hand knowledge of the game, coupled with his coaching expertise, enables him to provide players with the guidance and support they need to reach the next level.

LEAD ACADEMY COACH

With a broad footballing background as a former Academy player, Jack brings extensive experience in both playing and coaching. He has coached across grassroots and Academy football, as well as at adult level. Passionate about player development, Jack works closely with players to refine their skills, enhance their performance, and elevate their game.

ACADEMY COACH

Dylan is one of the younger members of the Academy coaching team and a former Academy graduate. He is currently working towards his UEFA C Licence, alongside his role with the Academy, having excelled in our Young Coaches Programme. Dylan is driven by his ambition to Coach at the highest level in football and inspires our players with his passion and knowledge of the game.

ASSISTANT ACADEMY COACH

As one of the newest members of the Academy coaching team, Callum is currently completing his UEFA C Coaching Licence, whilst gaining experience working alongside our highly experienced Academy Coaching team. You'll see Callum actively supporting our Lead Coaches to ensure every session meets the highest standards. In addition to his coaching role, Callum plays a key part as the Academy fixture co-ordinator, arranging fixtures with professional Football Academies.

ASSISTANT ACADEMY COACH

As the youngest member of the Academy Coaching team, Brodie supports our Lead Coaches and brings firsthand experience from his own journey through the player pathway. A former New Forest Football Academy player, he progressed onto AFC Bournemouth Academy, where he developed into a highly talented defensive player. Brodie joined our Young Coaches Programme, where he was able to apply his knowledge and experience to help our players enhance the finer details of their game and reach their full potential.

ASSISSTANT ACADEMY COACH

Barney, a former New Forest Football Academy player, progressed into coaching through our prestigious Young Coaches Programme. Alongside his coaching role at the Academy, he is thriving in his semi professional playing career, where his impressive goal-scoring stats have attracted interest from clubs higher up the football pyramid.