⚽️ Meet the Coach

Name: Matty

Role: Lead Coach

How long have you been coaching?
13 years!

What’s your favourite thing about working with children?
My favourite thing about working with children is seeing their growth and development — not just academically or athletically, but also in their confidence and character. Whether it’s a pupil finally grasping a new concept in class or a child discovering a new technique or skill on the pitch, those moments of progress are incredibly rewarding.

What’s your proudest moment as a coach?
One of my proudest moments as a coach has been working with a child from the age of three at Footy4Kids, watching them develop and progress week by week. Over time, they transitioned into grassroots football and eventually joined the Lincoln City Academy. The stepping stones we provide at Footy4Kids demonstrate the impact we have on our players, ensuring that each child has the support and opportunities needed to reach their full potential.

Favourite football team: Manchester United!

Favourite player: Luka Modric

Position you play or used to play: Centre Midfield

Coaching style in three words: Nurturing, patient, inspiring.

What do you want every child to learn from your sessions?
For me personally, I want every child to take away more than just technical skills from our sessions. My aim is for them to develop a strong understanding of the key concepts of football, such as teamwork, spatial awareness, and game understanding as a whole, while building confidence and a love for football. By focusing on these fundamentals, we ensure that each child is well-prepared to progress into grassroots football and continue advancing along their football journey.

Favourite football memory:
I have so many football memories that it’s hard to choose just one, but being selected to represent Scunthorpe United’s youth team at 15 in an away match against Tranmere stands out as a proud moment. I was very fortunate to play alongside many talented players, several of whom have gone on to become professional footballers.

Favourite meal:
I’m a huge foodie, and while I love trying all kinds of dishes, a classic cheese and bacon burger with BBQ sauce is my ultimate comfort food — simple, but absolutely unbeatable!

Fun fact about you:
I like to think being born on Bonfire Night gave me a bit of extra spark!