Where the future of Stockport County begins
BUILDING THE FUTURE OF FOOTBALL TOGETHER
The youth development system in this country is world-class, but when County were relegated 11 years ago, they lost their registered Academy. This meant local players had to join other clubs, limiting talent retention and potential transfer revenue, while coaches lost opportunities and supporters missed seeing local players represent the Club.
Today, we are proud to operate as a Category Three Academy, with a dedicated team committed to restoring County’s place on the map and reconnecting supporters with homegrown talent. Since returning to the Football League, significant investment has supported development from U9 to U18. We currently have 143 players, with 30% from the SK postcode area—strong local representation remains a priority.
Following the League Two title in 2023/24 and continued progress since, we are targeting Championship status within two years. A recent PGAAC review confirmed the Academy is already operating at Category 2 standard. Achieving formal Category 2 status will strengthen recruitment, support sustainability, and recognise the Academy’s quality and ambition.
Meet the Team
Shaping the next generation of County talent
Damien Allen
Academy Manager
Adam Booth
Academy Foundation Phase Assistant Coach
Alex Howarth
Lead Age Group Coach Foundation Phase
Craig Large
Foundation Development Phase Coach Developer
Jack Atkinson
Pre-Academy Coach
Joe Lally
Lead U16 & U15 Cell Coach
Joe Duckett
Lead Professional Development Phase Coach (U18 Lead Coach
Jordan Robinson
Academy Youth Development Phase Lead Coach
Lee Fletcher
Academy Foundation Phase Lead Coach
Megan Lord
Academy Head of Performance
Michael Jeffries
Academy Head of Coaching
Moonga Handongwe
Foundation Phase Assistant Coach
Ryan Jones
Academy Head of Operations
Ryan Grocott
Academy Head of Recruitment
Sam Mangan
Lead YDP Cell Coach
Scott Harris
Lead Foundation Phase Coach
Stuart Walkinshaw
Academy Foundation Phase Lead Coach
Thomas Cox
Academy Head of Education & Player Care
Tom Conway
Academy Head of Goalkeeping
A DAY IN THE LIFE
No two days in the Academy are the same, but everything we do is focused on developing players and people.
A typical day might include:
- Planning and delivering high-energy training sessions
- Working closely with coaches, physios, and analysts
- Supporting players’ development on and off the pitch
- Reviewing performance and providing feedback
- Engaging with education staff and parents
It’s a fast-paced, collaborative environment where long-term development comes first. You’re helping shape not just better footballers, but confident, well-rounded individuals—while contributing to a clear pathway into the first team.
Roles shaping future County talent
Explore the roles supporting player development, education, and performance across the Academy pathway.
COACHING ROLES
This is your opportunity to work in a professional academy environment, nurturing young talent and helping players reach their full potential.
- Deliver High-Quality Coaching Sessions – Plan and implement structured training programmes in line with the club’s playing philosophy.
- Develop Young Players – Focus on technical, tactical, physical, and psychological development to prepare players for first-team football.
- Monitor & Assess Player Progress – Provide regular feedback, performance analysis, and individual development plans.
- Create a Positive Learning Environment – Inspire and motivate players while maintaining high coaching standards.
- Work Closely with Academy & First-Team Staff – Ensure seamless progression through the academy pathwa
PERFORMANCE ANALYSTS
Use cutting-edge data and video analysis to provide valuable insights that enhance player development and match preparation.
- Analyse Match & Training Footage – Capture, break down, and review games and training sessions to support player development.
- Provide Tactical & Statistical Insights – Deliver detailed reports on team and individual performances to coaches and players.
- Monitor Player Development – Track key performance metrics to assess progress and identify areas for improvement.
- Support Opposition Analysis – Study upcoming opponents to help shape match strategies and tactical preparation.
- Work Closely with Coaches & Academy Staff – Ensure data-driven insights are effectively integrated into training and match planning.
EDUCATION
You'll play a key part in supporting the development of young athletes by delivering high-quality educational programs, helping them balance their academic and sporting commitments, and ensuring they thrive both on and off the pitch.
SUPPORT
Play a key part in developing the next generation of football talent. Whether assisting with operations, player welfare, or administration, you’ll help create a positive and professional environment for young players to thrive.
- Provide Operational & Administrative Support – Assist with scheduling, player registrations, and general academy coordination.
- Support Player Welfare & Development – Ensure young players have the guidance and resources needed to progress on and off the pitch.
- Assist with Matchday & Training Logistics – Help organise travel, equipment, and facilities for training sessions and fixtures.
- Liaise with Coaches, Parents & Staff – Act as a key point of contact to maintain smooth communication and operations.
On a personal level, it has been a privilege to be part of a Club with such clear ambition over the past five years. As Academy Manager, I support the delivery of operations and long-term strategy, while helping strengthen a culture where our people are supported and challenged to live the Club’s values every day. I’m excited for the next five years and the impact ahead.
LATEST VACANCIES
Join our team today! Here are some of the exciting roles we’re hiring for: