This September, we will focus our Manchester FA monthly spotlight on the hard work of our coaches and coach development staff in Greater Manchester. 

Kicking off the month, we will bring you coverage of our first ever Coaches’ Conference on the 1st September (with final ticket available to purchase here link). We will hear from leading coaches in the game including Pete Sturgess (FA Lead for the Foundation Phase), Matt Craddock (Head of Academy at Preston North End) and Paul McGuinness (Former Manchester United Player and Coach) and understand what has contributed to their development both personally and professionally.  At the conference, we will also celebrate the launch of our Manchester FA Coach Membership, for those who are committed to furthering their own development in their coaching career and want access to a range of member-only benefits such as discounts at major brands and exclusive CPD sessions. 

Throughout the month, we will then bring you insight into the coaching journey, from stepping onto a FA Level 1 course, through to UEFA B and beyond. We will speak to coaches from across the game and hear about their journey and challenges so far, with the aim of inspiring those interested in taking their coaching qualifications and getting involved with grassroots football in Greater Manchester. Coaching goes beyond the qualifications and during the month, we will share how we support and develop coaches beyond their formal education, through the mentoring and PE programmes.

Football Development Officer for Education and Workforce, James Longdin, explains: “September is a big month for us, starting off with the Coaches’ Conference and the launch of our new Coach Membership, then a new batch of learners join the Manchester coaching network, via a busy month of course delivery. Coach education is thriving in Greater Manchester and we hope this month will show a glimpse of what we are delivering week in, week out, in order to create the best coaching workforce in the country.”

Cherry-picked insight, templates and guides will be shared on our channels across the month to help existing coaches refresh on fundamental coaching principles, as well as introducing those unfamiliar with the coaching world to some of the core elements of what makes a good coach who inspires their team, regardless of age or level of the game. 

To keep up to date with all the action, follow #MFACoach on our social media channels and be sure to like our Facebook and Instagram pages, and follow us on Twitter.