Where Are They Now: Lewis Ingham – Youth Development Phase Coach at Huddersfield Town

“It doesn’t feel like a job. Ultimately, we get to wake up and do what we love.”

These are the words of a UCFB coaching graduate who’s now working at a Football League club, looking after the youth teams.

Lewis Ingham, who studied BA (Hons) Football Coaching and Talent Development at UCFB Manchester, is now using his talent development skills in his role as a youth development phase coach at Huddersfield Town FC.

Speaking about his role, Lewis said: “I look after the U13s and U14s at the club, overseeing the individual development of every player in those two age groups.

“I organise a games programme, organising everything those groups do, and then leading and planning training sessions in line with the curriculum at the club.”

During his time at UCFB, Lewis made the most out of the work placement opportunities, gaining experience outside the classroom to enhance and build his skills in sports coaching.

Working at organisations such as the Quinton Fortune Academy, Oldham Athletic and Bradford City before he’d even graduated, he learned plenty from both academic lectures and practical experience before going into full-time work.

Talking about his three years studying with us, Lewis said: “The three years I had at UCFB were top.

“I met some incredible people and got to experience some really great things, and they’ve really helped me on my journey so far.

“The academics were really important in terms of opening my eyes of what the industry was really like.

“I’m a firm believer that you always need to go out and get experience yourself, but having tutors who have so many years of experience in Category One academies really added value to the course.”

He finished by offering advice to UCFB students wanting that career in sports coaching.

“Say yes to every opportunity,” he said.

“Practice and put yourself into situations where you feel uncomfortable. In the moment, it might not feel nice, but ultimately the learning will take place in the long run, and you’ll reflect on it, and be thankful you took that opportunity.”

UCFB students are offered an array of work experience opportunities through our Employability and Career Planning Team. Find out more about them and what they offer our students.

You can also view a prospectus to learn more about student life at UCFB, our campuses and unique sports-focused courses.