Recruitment
|
Global Director of Recruitment
JAY SPARROW 
CONTACT
BIO
Jay will be attending several showcase events around the country. Jay, originally from England moved to San Antonio, Texas in 2003. He has a passion for helping student athletes reach their academic and soccer goals. He is experienced in talent identification and player development. He has identified, selected and provided opportunities for many students seeking an international studying and playing experience. Jay ran and developed a successful soccer organization in the USA and now has taken his skills to player identification for UDA across the USA |
Director of Talent Identification – Bath
ABBEY GOLDEN 
CONTACT
[email protected] 1 (440) 552-2224 BIO
Abbey is a former NCAA Division I student-athlete with extensive collegiate coaching experience, having served as both an assistant and head coach. She holds a USSF B License and is a five-time Head Coach of the Year recipient, bringing over 15 years of experience across collegiate and elite club environments. Abbey joins UDA with a proven track record in identifying and recruiting high-level talent and will play a key role in guiding prospective student-athletes through the recruitment process, with a primary focus on supporting women’s pathway opportunities within UDA academy programs. |
Academic Advisor
DR. BRIAN HALEY 
BIO
Dr. Haley will work with each student discussing their degree options, reading personal statements as well as discussing all the academic requirements of degree programs making sure that we find the right fit for the student. With over thirty years experience as a tenured professor in teacher education he will use his experience to help students prepare their applications to give them the great chance of success in enrolment to the university. |
UOC ACADEMY STAFF
|
UDA Program Director
JOHN DYKE 
CONTACT
BIO
John has a wealth of experience in coach education with the City Group having worked in China with the Chinese National football association through their ministry of education. Most recently John has worked in the USA bringing the Manchester City philosophy and methodology to the coaching centers he has directed. John has been responsible for global talent identification both in the USA and China through a variety of programs and his team specifically selected players from China to be invited to play at the Manchester City U23 academy. Prior to joining Manchester City Group John worked at Manchester United serving as their soccer schools international project manager, overseeing their global educational courses for aspiring players. John has overseen the assessment and development of players for the programs with Manchester United soccer schools. In addition to coaching John will direct all operations in the academy as well as serving as an on field coach. He will not only lead the coaching staff but will be ensuring the social and cultural experience of students is extended beyond the training and games program to give an all round positive student experience. John will be also using his extensive contacts in the English professional game to enhance the student development and understanding of the game through visiting coaches and webinars from coaches at the professional level. Royals Head Coach
MATT GREGORY 
CONTACT
BIO
Matt Gregory is an experienced Physical Education Teacher with a BSc (Hons) in Sports Coaching & Exercise Science and a UEFA B License. He has a rich background in football, having played for Liverpool FC and represented England internationally as a youth player. With over 400 league games and 300 semi-professional appearances, Matt now manages a Men's XI football team in Cheshire. His coaching career includes working as a development coach for Manchester United and Manchester City, where he is dedicated to enhancing player performance and fostering teamwork. Sports Injury Management
Martin Feast 
CONTACT
BIO
Martin is a Level 5 Sports & Rehabilitation Therapist with 12 years of experience. As an ex-football player within the English FA league system, he has also gained valuable experience in coaching and team management. Before his role at UDA in Chester, Martin established his own business, Simplicity Massages, which now operates in Manchester and Derbyshire. Martin has worked with current and former professional athletes across various sports, including Football, Rugby Union, and UFC. Qualifications:
Sports Scientist / Fitness Trainer
KERRY MORRIS 
CONTACT
BIO
Kerry is based in Chester and to studying at the University of Chester to complete a MSc in Sports Medicine / science. She has played at various levels of the women’s game for Chester FC and is currently playing for Wigan FC women’s team. Kerry is a great addition to the UDA Chester staff and will helping players with fitness testing analysis in addition helping players off field with any welfare and support required. Regional Recruiter
IAN SCOTT 
CONTACT
BIO
Since moving to Indiana, Ian has served as Technical Director with Westfield Select S.C., Academy Director at ZYSA, and is now the Boys Director of Staff & Player Development. He was named Indiana’s Boys Director of Coaching in 2016/17 and has led teams to regional and national finals, including the 2002 ZYSA Boys who finished runners-up at the 2019 National Final. Originally from England, Ian played professionally with Manchester City, Stoke City, and Bury, and was part of Man City’s FA Youth Cup–winning squad. His coaching background includes academy roles with Manchester City and Bolton Wanderers, as well as serving as an FA youth educator. Ian holds a USSF National B License, UEFA B License, and FA Youth Module 3 certification. |
Head of Coaching
JAMIE FITZPATRICK 
CONTACT
BIO
Jamie coached and oversaw coaches within the City Football program, managing the preparation, organization and review of the coaching sessions as a lead coach both at national and international levels. Jamie will bring his extensive qualifications and experience to students, having worked in two English premier academies helping players reach their optimum potential. He will direct session coaches as needed and directly oversee the training, playing and games program. Jamie will work closely with the program director to give formative and summative feedback to players through data collection points to enhance the development process of students. Women's Coach
FAYE BUTLER 
CONTACT
BIO
Faye a fully qualified UEFA coach who studies at the University of Chester. She is currently the Captain of the University BUCs team and plays for UDA Vulcans FC. Faye has played at various levels of the women's game for clubs including Wolves FC and Stafford Town FC. Faye is pursuing a coaching career pathway coaching in the local high schools in addition to her work for UDA. She is an inspiration for young female and male players in the local community. Physiotherapy
CHRIS IRELAND 
CONTACT
BIO
Chris is a dedicated sports therapy professional with a BSc (Hons) in Sports Therapy and an MSc in Football Science and Rehabilitation from the University of Central Lancashire (UCLAN). His career includes significant experience in elite sports settings, where he has worked in the football industry for Salford City FC, Accrington Stanley FC, Crewe Alexandra FC, and Chester FC, supporting both men's and women's teams. Additionally, he has contributed to the success of St. Helens RLFC, UDA Soccer, and currently serve as the therapist for the Wrexham AFC Academy. Chris has a strong commitment to athlete care and performance enhancement, implementing evidence-based practices that foster recovery and rehabilitation within high-performance environments. Sports Scientist
ERIN WHITEHEAD 
CONTACT
BIO
Erin is based in Chester and to studying 3rd year student at the University of Chester to complete a MSc in Sports Medicine / science. She has played at various levels of the women’s game and represented Chester women’s FC and the Chester University 1st in the BUC’s leagues. She completed a work placement last year with UDA and now applies the classroom theory to real time situations to support athletes' growth. Erin is a great addition to the UDA Chester staff and will be helping players with fitness testing analysis in addition helping players off field with any welfare and support required. Regional Recruiter
MARTIN DELL 
CONTACT
BIO
Martin Dell is originally from Hertfordshire, England, and brings more than 30 years of experience in soccer coaching, leadership, and management, along with a strong background in sales and marketing. In just his second year as head coach at Louisburg College, Dell led the men’s soccer team to its first-ever NJCAA Division I National Championship, finishing with an outstanding 24–1 record. His success earned him multiple honors, including Regional Coach of the Year, District Coach of the Year, National Tournament Coach of the Year, and NSCAA National Coach of the Year. In his first season at Louisburg, Dell guided the program to Regional and District Championships and a National Tournament appearance, while also being named District Coach of the Year. Before Louisburg, Dell served as Varsity Head Coach and Physical Education Teacher at Sidwell Friends School in Washington, D.C. He also held key leadership roles with the Richmond Kickers, where he was Director of Youth Development and head coach of the Richmond Kickers Future PDL team. During his five seasons with the Future team, he recorded more than 50 wins and captured Mid-Atlantic Division and Eastern Conference titles in 2003 and 2005. Dell also owned and directed Coerver Coaching of Virginia for 14 years and has held a wide range of coaching roles throughout his career, including Assistant Men’s Soccer Coach at Randolph-Macon College, Varsity Girls Head Coach at Manchester High School, ODP Head Coach for Regions I and III, Director of Coaching for the Richmond Strikers Girls Travel Program, and Director of Coaching for Richmond Capitals Soccer Club. His extensive experience, proven leadership, and long-standing commitment to player development make him a highly respected figure in the game. |
Head of Women's Football
JAMIE EVANS 
CONTACT
BIO
Jamie holds a UEFA B License and joins the UDA coaching staff from Manchester City AFC, where he will oversee the Royals U21 team in the NW Counties League. With six years of experience at Manchester City FC, Jamie has coached players across the UK, Europe, and the USA. He has not only designed and delivered coaching sessions but also mentored coaching staff within the City group. Known for his organization, analytical approach, and attention to detail, Jamie aims to implement Manchester City’s philosophies to help players reach their full potential. Coach
GEORGE STEELE 
CONTACT
BIO
George Steele, Is 23 years old and a recent University of Chester graduate with a 2:1 BSc in Sports Coaching. He has been involved within football for 15+ years both playing and more recently coaching gaining his FA level 2 and now working towards his UEFA B licence. He has played in the Welsh leagues, most noticeably for Mold Alexander. He began work experience with UDA during his 2nd year and has now progressed to an assistant coach along with being a coach at Vulcan FC in the Cheshire league for their development squad. Physiotherapy
SOPHIE DUTTON 
CONTACT
BIO
Sophie is based in North Wales. Fully qualified BSc Sports Therapist who studied at the University of Derby and then continued onto further education to study at the University of Chester to complete a MSc in Sports Medicine and including BSc in Sports Therapy and Rehabilitation, Level 4 UEFA Emergency Pitch Side. She is currently the Sports Therapist for UDA and Chester Women FC and previously Head of Medical for Flint Town United Academy and the Sports Therapist for Flint Town United First Team. She has experience working for the FAW Girls North Squad as well as working for Derby County Football Club. Sophie is a great addition to the UDA Chester staff and will help players with their injury concerns and returning them to play safely. Head of Student Support
JENNIFER MURRAY 
CONTACT
BIO
Jennifer will join the UDA academy and work closely with the students and coaches to ensure that students' social and emotional well being is taken care of. She will work with students to ensure that they are on a path for graduation through their degree modules. Jennifer has experience in post secondary education and learner support, a qualified teacher, with a degree in English Literature, and Certificate in Education. She has numerous years experience working in post-16 education and has a OCR Level 4 in Learning and Development, which has enabled her to identify the needs of students and support their personal growth and development. Jennifer is an avid football supporter and has worked within the professional soccer environment in international settings, notably the USA. Jennifer will bring an understanding of the needs of international students, specifically American students having worked in the USA. Jennifer stated, “I am driven to create at UDA a positive and productive work environment for our students that will help foster their growth. Working with a professional soccer club I witnessed first hand the power of teamwork, discipline and perseverance first hand. These experiences have provided me with a unique perspective on different cultures, educational systems and ways of life. They have broadened my horizons, deepened my cultural understanding, and enhanced my ability to connect with diverse groups of people.” Regional Recruiter
JUSTIN DEVORAK CONTACT
BIO
Justin is a University of Chester graduate and former UDA player, where he studied Biology and Conservation Genetics. A standout at SA United in San Antonio and a three-time TASCO All-Region honoree, he went on to lead UDA Chester in goals and assists, earning a trial with Welsh Premier side Connah’s Quay Nomads. Passionate about sharing his UDA and UK experiences, Justin helps student-athletes navigate the challenges of studying abroad while creating opportunities for them to showcase their talents. |
UOG ACADEMY STAFF
|
Program Director for UDA UOG
STEVE LILLEY 
CONTACT
BIO
Steve Lilley brings a wealth of experience in elite player and coach development, having worked extensively with the English Football Association as a coach educator. Holding a UEFA A License, he has spent his career shaping both players and coaches at the highest levels of the game. Steve has dedicated his career to developing footballers and mentoring coaches, holding key leadership roles in professional academies and national coaching organizations, including:
Through these roles, Steve has been instrumental in mentoring aspiring coaches, designing elite training programs, and supporting both men’s and women’s football development at the highest levels. Head of Women's Academy
ANEAKA REAY-KEMP 
CONTACT
BIO
Student Support Officer & Minibus Driver
BRIAN HIGGS 
CONTACT
BIO
Brian Higgs has been a dedicated minibus driver for UDA for the past year, forging strong connections with students. Recognizing his rapport, he naturally transitioned into the role of student support within the UOG UDA organization. A lifelong sports enthusiast, Brian played football until 18 and then rugby from 23, even coaching kids for a decade. Born in Cheltenham, he knows the area well and enjoys riding his vintage motorbikes to local charity meets. Brian also has two Labernese dogs, a breed known for their gentle nature. |
Head of Football
RYAN DAVIES 
CONTACT
BIO
Academy Coach
DAVE CORNOCK 
CONTACT
BIO
Student Welfare
FRAZER LINNITT CONTACT
BIO
|
Head of Men's Academy
TOM SHARPE 
CONTACT
BIO
Player Agent
PATRICK WILLIAMS CONTACT
BIO
Patrick is a UEFA licenced agent. His company Vision Management Performance (VMPPro) represents a number of scholars, professional and semi professional footballers and he acts in an advisory capacity for UDA. Patrick`s experience and knowledge of pathways both in the UK and abroad is invaluable in supporting UDA players as they transition from studying to working / playing. He also assists in putting together Player CV`s. Student Welfare
CHLOE BAKEWELL-BARRAT CONTACT
BIO
|