Where Are They Now: Matthew Swift – Head of data and analytics, first team coach and U16 coach at Chorley FC

A UCFB graduate has been talking to us about his journey from studying a coaching-related degree course at UCFB to working as a first team coach at his local club.

Matthew Swift, who studied BA (Hons) Football Coaching and Management at UCFB Manchester, now works as head of data and analytics, first team coach and U16 coach at National League North club Chorley FC.

Speaking about his roles at the club, he said: “With my data and analytics role, I look at the opposition, weaknesses we can exploit, our strengths for us to build on.

“I also look at stats regarding our players to give them a bit of morale and positive mentality going into that next game.”

He added: “With the U16s, I took over the group of players two years ago as the U14s, and we’re doing well in the league and the cup.

“Now I’m just looking to hopefully have one of them in a first team training session or get a contract in three or four years.”

Matthew first got involved in his local side halfway through his UCFB journey, joining them on an internship as a first team analyst and academy coach.

Impressing so much, Matthew was named a first team coach only months after graduating from UCFB.

“Working in a first team environment is great,” he said. “When I started my coaching journey, it was always something I aspired to be within.

“It wasn’t something I wanted to rush into, I want it to be gradual. Ultimately, this is what I want to be doing for the rest of my life.

“I’m loving it. Everybody’s so supportive from players and staff. We get on each other’s backs when we know each other can do better, and we’re all working together to get the best out of each other.”

He then spoke about how the workplace opportunities and experiences he received while at UCFB were vital to his coaching journey.

As well as his roles at Chorley FC, Matthew spent his time at UCFB gaining experiences at organisations such as the Liverpool FC Foundation, Cork City and Manchester City.

“The degree prepared me for these roles personally,” he said, “but in terms of going out and getting them, it was the ECP programme, JobTeaser, ex-students posting positions which clubs have come to UCFB to offer.

“Ultimately it was that which got me the roles that I’m in now.

“I applied for one on JobTeaser through my degree; I had those skills already, but I needed to go out and find somewhere. It was JobTeaser and the ECP team which helped me get my first role which has led me to where I am now.”

Find out more about the many UCFB graduates thriving across the football and wider sports industry.

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