Our Expertise | NSCG
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First class experience. First class coaching. First class players. First class talent.

Included in your weekly timetable is extensive football coaching, training sessions and a game. You’ll also get plenty of classroom time so that you can focus on your academic qualifications, where we’ll push you to achieve the best possible grades. As part of the programme, you get an Individual Player Plan to develop your fitness, strength and conditioning and access to first class gym facilities*. There’s no doubt you’ll be put through your paces, but what an opportunity to show what you’re made of!

*on-site access at Stafford College is subject to availability.

MEET THE TEAM

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Andy Griffin: Head Coach

At the helm of the Academy is our Head Coach Andy Griffin, ex Premiership footballer and former Stoke City Captain, who has played in the Champions League with Newcastle United.

At the peak of his game, he played for the great Sir Bobby Robson, Kenny Dalglish and Ruud Gullit. He captained Stoke City to promotion to the Premier League, under Tony Pulis, and was fortunate enough to play for the flamboyant Harry Redknapp at Portsmouth. Where else can you learn from this kind of talent?

I'm absolutely loving transferring everything I've learnt over the years to the pitch at NSCG. Each year I'm always on the lookout for male and female players who are bright, keen and willing to work hard on the pitch and in the classroom.

Andy Griffin | Head Coach

Sherry McCue: Ladies Head Coach

Our ladies academy is headed up by Leicester City and England midfielder Sherry McCue. The midfielder started her career with Stoke City Girls’ Centre of Excellence before joining Aston Villa Ladies in 2012, spending four seasons at the club, which included winning the FA Women’s Premier League Cup.

Captain for the England U20s side for the World Cup in 2014 she also helped the England U19s finish runners-up in the European Championships.

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John Johnston: First Team Coach

Supporting Andy as First Team Coach is John Johnston. John is a former Newcastle College alumnus, currently playing for Altrincham Football Club as Winger and was part of the attacking team that won the National League in 2017/18.

His other previous clubs include Crewe Alexandra and Salford City.

Todd Bailey: Second Team Coach

Experienced Sport, Exercise and Coaching Science lecturer Todd Bailey ensures players are able meet not only the physical demands of the programme, but are able to reflect upon their performances using state-of-the-art analysis software and equipment. Todd is a UEFA B Coach and has a long history of guiding and nurturing football teams to success - he takes charge of our AGFA second team.


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Will Bratt | Strength & Conditioning / Analysis coach


Experienced Sport, Exercise and Coaching Science lecturer Will Bratt ensures players are able meet not only the physical demands of the programme, but are able to reflect upon their performances using state-of-the-art analysis software and equipment.

Will has a wealth of experience in this area having supported clubs such as; Reading FC, Didcot Town, Maidenhead United and Thatcham Town FC in the past.