UCFB graduate now working as coach at Cypriot First Division club

A UCFB graduate has been speaking about his current role as a coach at a first division club in Cyprus.

Marios Sideras, who studied BA (Hons) Football Coaching and Management at UCFB’s Manchester Campus, now coaches in the academy at Aris Limassol.

As head coach of the U16s and assistant coach of the U17s, Marios spoke about how the role of a coach is filled with dedication and commitment.

Speaking about his role, he said: “My preparation for the week begins from the minute the game ends.

“Throughout the week, we have five sessions and one game.

“On Wednesdays, we have group sessions and analysis of the game, where I deliberately allow the players to get involved in the analysis session to understand what they are doing.

“I record our training sessions and I review the footage at the end of the training sessions in order to improve both myself as a coach, but also my players.”

He added: “Football is a very exciting field to work in. It is full of surprised and for me especially, it is more of a passion in life rather than work.”

Speaking about his time at UCFB, Mario said: “UCFB gave me the opportunity to have a degree in football coaching and management, while also playing football at a decent level.

“A highlight for me was Mike Phelan’s coaching session, as well as the great guest speakers such as Roberto Martinez, Roy Keane and David Moyes, who is somebody to whom I look up.

“UCFB also gave me a head start in terms of preparing me for the challenges of the real world, as well as providing me with the right knowledge to aspire and become successful.”