Six coaches. One philosophy.
Every coach at Vanguard is UEFA-licensed, professionally experienced, and DBS-cleared. More importantly — they care.
James Whitfield
Former Bolton Wanderers first-team coach. Built the academy from the ground up in 2008. Specialises in tactical periodisation.
Diego Marín
Trained at the Sevilla youth academy. Designed our possession-based curriculum and runs the technical sessions for Development and Elite squads.
Priya Okafor
Represented England at U17 level. Leads our standalone Goalkeeping School every Tuesday and supports Development & Elite GKs throughout the week.
Tom Reilly
Brings 12 years of FA youth coaching experience to the Little Strikers sessions. The kids adore him — and so do the parents.
Naomi Hartley
Designs age-appropriate strength programmes and recovery protocols. Keeps every Elite Pathway player fit, fast, and injury-free.
Marcus Ade
Looks after every player’s mental and academic wellbeing. The point of call for parents — and the steady hand on every touchline.
Our coaches don’t just teach football. They teach kids how to lose with grace, win with humility, and turn up on a Tuesday in February when they’d rather be on the sofa.
Credentials, not promises.
Want to meet the coach?
Come to an open session — meet the team, walk the pitch, ask anything.