What's your role at NSCG?
AGFA Ladies Head coach/ Student engagement assistant
Make the most of every opportunity that comes your way, even if it sometimes takes you out of your comfort zone.
Sherry McCue, AGFA Ladies Head coach
Which campuses do you work at?
Newcastle and Stafford
Tell us about yourself and your career journey so far
I coach football as part of the Andy Griffin Football Academy. I’ve been doing this in a part-time capacity for around 10 years, alongside my career in the fire service, which spans nearly 14 years. This year, I’ve also taken on responsibility for engaging students across both college sites in a range of recreational sports, including table tennis, badminton, basketball and football.
Can you tell us about the NSCG Academy of Sport?
The Academy of Sport at NSCG provides an excellent opportunity for students to complement their studies with high-quality sporting participation. It offers a wide range of sports, all delivered to a strong competitive standard.
Teams across disciplines, including rugby, netball, basketball, football, cricket, volleyball, golf, swimming and hockey compete in leagues throughout the academic year, as well as in a variety of cup competitions and tournaments. At the end of the year, the college hosts a Sports Awards presentation, where players and coaches come together to celebrate team and individual achievements, with medals and trophies awarded in recognition of their success.
What sport do you focus on?
Ladies football
How and when did you first get into your sport?
I first started playing football at the age of 6 in 2000 for a local boys’ team after a knock on the door from the coach. Shortly afterwards, I also joined a local girls’ team, playing for both sides. At the age of 10, I was scouted by Stoke City, before moving on to Crewe Alexandra at 12.
Not long after, I was selected to represent the England youth team at 14, and my career progressed through all the national age groups up to the U23s. During this time, I competed in numerous European tournaments, captained the England U19s in the European final against France, and led the England U20s at the World Cup in Canada.
Following my time at Crewe Alexandra, I went on to play for several clubs, including Aston Villa, Sheffield FC, Leicester City and Derby County. I retired from playing in 2022.
What is your favourite thing about your sport?
I love the competitive side of the game.
Who inspires you? Do you have a sporting icon or someone in life you look up to?
My parents are my greatest inspiration. They’ve shown me that hard work, determination and perseverance are the keys to success, not just in sport, but in life as a whole.
What is your favourite memory from your career so far?
It’s difficult to choose just one favourite memory, as I’ve been fortunate to experience many, some with less favourable outcomes, but all of them valuable learning opportunities. Playing against France in the European final was an incredible experience, even if the result didn’t go our way.
Another moment that will stay with me forever was my final home game for Derby at Pride Park against Nottingham Forest, in front of more than 5,000 supporters. Scoring the winning goal from the penalty spot made it an especially memorable occasion.
What is your favourite thing about your job?
I enjoy the interaction with both staff and different students across the college.
What benefits does the Academy of Sport offer students at NSCG?
Any student on any course across the college can participate in sport whether this be competitively or recreationally.
What advice would you give to a new student on their first day at NSCG?
Make the most of every opportunity that comes your way, even if it sometimes takes you out of your comfort zone. The college offers a wide range of additional opportunities for students, including referee courses, sports coaching, and leadership and activator roles.