Stuart English
Head of Coaching, Sunderland AFCStuart started his coaching journey at Wycombe Wanderers Football in the Community scheme whilst at Buckinghamshire University studying for a degree in Sports Management and Football Studies. After 3 years coaching in various capacities around the community in schools and weekend clubs he started his own coaching business in Bedfordshire. Whilst setting up his own coaching sessions Stuart was invited to start working at Luton Town in their Development Centres. From working part time Stuart soon transitioned into a full-time role at Luton Town as their Football Development Officer bridging the gap between the Community Programme and Centre of Excellence, whilst coaching in both.
Following 5 years at Luton, Stuart took up a role at Brentford as Foundation Phase Lead. This was the start of a new project as Brentford were revamping their Centre of Excellence and aiming to become a top 10 Academy in England. After 5.5 successful years working with the younger players initially and then obtaining the Assistant Academy Manager and Head of Coaching titles Stuart transitioned onto a new role in Birmingham City FC as Assistant Academy Manager and Head of Coaching. Stuart worked at Birmingham for 6 successful years helping the Academy progress from a Cat 2 to Cat 1 and also seeing lots of players progress through the Academy onto the 1st team.
Three years ago Stuart joined Sunderland as Head of Coaching with a slightly different role which works across the Academy and 1st team. The remit is to work with all coaches and players across the Football programme and ensure the Sunderland identity is evident throughout all the teams.
Stuart has completed the Premier League Elite Head of Coaching qualification and is currently undertaking a Masters in Coach Development.