A UCFB student is celebrating having started a new coaching role at Chelsea FC.
Theo Fearon, who studies BA (Hons) Football Coaching and Talent Development at UCFB Wembley, was recently successful in becoming an Academy Development Centre coach at Chelsea.
After a process of interviews and assessments, he will now be representing the five-time Premier League champions to young players growing into the club’s academy.
Still only in the second year of his studies at UCFB, Theo says that this new job is a fantastic opportunity for him to grow personally and professionally as a coach.
“I am excited about this opportunity,” he said. “I still have a lot to learn and achieve in my coaching journey, and this role will provide me with the opportunity to grow.”
The role of Academy Development Centre coach will see Theo working with talented youngsters who are looking to advance into the pre-academy and academy systems at Chelsea.
“Chelsea's Academy Development Centre is sort of the first place where players learn and grow the Chelsea way,” he added. “We aim to develop the individual to become more skilful as a player.”
Theo is certainly getting the most out of his time at UCFB. As well as this new role and attending lectures, he also delivers PE lessons on his days off, and coaches Brent District Football and his Hendon Youth Team on evenings also.
When asked about his time at UCFB, Theo said: “Certainly, I am enjoying my time at UCFB. With a year and a half remaining, I have learned tons from dedicated lecturers and their support has been invaluable in preparing me for employment.
He added: “The best thing about UCFB is that most lecturers are already employed within academy settings or are FA mentors who can share their experiences and provide guidance.”
He finished: “Taking advantage of every opportunity possible and saying yes to different coaching opportunities is the best advice I can give to young coaches. Coaching requires exposure to different environments, as well as the opportunity to learn from other coaches.
“I began coaching at the age of 18 by volunteering for three hours on Saturday mornings. It was an incredibly enjoyable experience for me. Coaching gives me satisfaction because I know I can make a positive impact on children's lives.
“My best advice has come from a coach called Barry Dowling who says, ‘Always build contacts and network with different coaches.’ Coaching at the top level can be a competitive environment, so the more contacts you build and the more you put yourself out there, the better.”
To find out more about UCFB’s wide range of sports coaching-related undergraduate degree courses, click here.
Alternatively, click here to view a prospectus and see where a degree from UCFB could take you and your sports industry career.
