Football

Having grown up in a culture where I felt overcoached and where mistakes were frowned upon, I’ve developed a deep commitment to creating an environment where players can express themselves freely on the pitch. My experience in player recruitment has given me a key understanding of player development frameworks, which I now use to provide the best possible platform for my players within an elite training environment. I believe that teamwork, discipline, and hard work are paramount for the personal development of young players, both in football and in life. However, above all, I prioritize ensuring that young players have fun, as this is the foundation of their passion and growth in the sport.

I fell in love with football at the age of 7 when I first started playing. By 12, I earned my first scholarship in Scotland, which gave me the experience of being in a full-time football environment while continuing my studies. At 16, I signed my first full-time contract with Dundee United, where I played for 4 seasons. After my time as a player, I wanted to give back to the game, so I pursued my coaching badges and began coaching at Dundee United, working with the U10s-U14s. Over the past 6 years, I’ve been dedicated to coaching in Scotland, and for the past year, I’ve continued my journey in Dubai. Currently, I’m still playing in the UAE Pro Leagues in Dubai, while continuing to develop as a coach.

I am, and always will be, a believer that the best way to achieve success when you are coaching is lead by the example you set for your players. Coaching or Teaching kids is not all about football fundamental skills, technique and tactics. For me it’s all about their personal behaviour, attitude and respect. I also believe that playing football as a child, not only builds character and confidence but also gives them sense of accomplishment. It also prepares them for life. Working as a team or as a team player, not as an individual. I also feel it can bring a child out of his/her shell or shyness. When they do something that is awesome in football or in life.

Football is a game that has intrigued me ever since I was a little boy, I have always loved the game of football and probably always will. I started playing football when I was 7 years old and helped me earn a scholarship from the age of 12 until I graduated in college. I represent my province, region and country during that period then I played semi-professional for a couple of years. I feel very passionate about football, because not only is it a great game where you learn about yourself and your potential, but the game teaches you a lot about life. I started Coaching after I graduated then one private school in our province give me opportunity to work as a Head coach and give me a chance to gain a position as a head coach for the regional team. For the love of football, I share my knowledge to the kids and continue my career here in Dubai as football coach.

Have a passion for coaching: I bring enthusiasm and energy to my coaching sessions.

I ensure that the players enjoy the session whilst learning. I strive to provide a fun, engaging and meaningful experience.

Open Communication and Feedback: I allow the players to express themselves openly and build a two way trust. I welcome their perspective and take their thoughts and feelings into consideration. I also like to provide constructive feedback in order to further develop the player.

Create a positive environment: I choose to create a positive player environment, where mistakes can happen and be corrected in a positive manner. Players can feel free to take risks and explore new skills.

All round Coaching Approach: I strive to mould the individual player not just with technical and tactical football skills but also with life lessons; respect, a positive attitude, good sportsmanship, perseverance and discipline.

My love for football started at the tender age of 6 years old, following in the footsteps of my father. I played for local academies in Trinidad and was awarded an athletic scholarship to play college football at Liberty University, Virginia, USA. I excelled at college football and in my first year I was named to the Division One Freshman All American Team. I graduated as the university’s all time top scorer. I then started playing for the Trinidad and Tobago National Men’s Team and from there I was scouted and drafted to the MLS as well as the Dutch Eredivise, however I chose latter. I played in the Eredivise for two seasons, moving on to the Turkish Superlig, then eventually made my way to the USA and Asia. In my later years I decided to start coaching, whilst in being in Manila, Philippines. I obtained my Concacaf C license and then took on an opportunity in Dubai. I have been in Dubai for almost 4 years coaching, and I am enjoying the ride so far, passing on my experience and expertise to the younger generation. I am looking forward to see where this journey takes me.

I have a player-centered approach and I am passionate about developing people to progress holistically, whilst creating and sustaining a successful culture and environment both on and off the pitch.

I am originally from a small town in Wales, UK called Llanelli. Having played since I could first remember. I decided that I would like to focus on achieving a career in football. My coaching journey started with helping out my local team when in college and still playing. After a year I was approached to take over the U15/16 age group at Llanelli Town Academy this then turned into me leading the U19 age group and overseeing the youth program. During this time I was also coaching at Swansea City Academy. Once I went to university to study Sports Coaching and Development and I started playing less, I took a new position at Swansea City Academy Leading the elite development center where we would identify future academy prospects and look to promote them.

After tasting international coaching with projects with Swansea. I then progressed onto being a lead international development coach for Cardiff City in China. During this time I also completed a postgraduate degree in Advanced Football Coaching and became a coach educator for the Football Association of Wales. I then embarked on my next international role which involved me being Women’s 1st team Head Coach, Head of Coach Education & Lead Boys Coach for MLFA in Hong Kong. In 2021 I moved to Connecticut, USA to become Director of Football & Coaching for Shelton FC. After a successful 2 years in the USA I briefly moved back to the UK to become General Manager & Lead U19 coach for Swansea University and Head Coach for Coleg Sir Gar.

After a brief 6 months in the UK I took on the role as Lead Girls Coach at Go Pro Sports Dubai before moving to Cognita, Enrich Me in the summer of 2024. I am looking forward to continue to provide the best development for the Enrich Me students both on and off the field and to oversee the successful growth of the Girls pathway and program.

My coaching philosophy revolves around the holistic development of players, both on and off the field.not only to enhance my own knowledge but to empower and nurture the growth of the players I coach. Central to this philosophy is the cultivation of a fearless environment where players are encouraged to experiment and try new things without the fear of failure. I focus on the long-term development of players, recognizing that success and progression extend beyond the results of matches. Instead, I prioritize the improvement the key elements of the game: technical, tactical, physical, social, and psychological aspects. By honing these skills and fostering a supportive environment, players are equipped with the tools they need for success both on and off the pitch. I firmly believe that the rewards of development are abundant. As players progress and evolve, they not only become better athletes but also develop essential life skills such as teamwork, resilience, and leadership. In my coaching environment, players are encouraged to take ownership of their development journey. By fostering a culture of accountability and empowerment, players become active participants in their own growth. I emphasize the importance of education and continuous learning. By providing players with the knowledge and resources they need to succeed, I empower them to reach their full potential.

After sustaining a serious injury at twenty-one playing semi- professional football in England, I redirected my career from playing and coaching football to joining West Midlands Fire Service in 2003 in the role of a Firefighter. Despite this shift, my passion for football never waned, and I’ve remained involved in the sport throughout my 20-year operational tenure.

My diverse experiences, including spearheading youth projects like a football inclusion initiative, underscore my desire to fulfil my coaching potential, which I couldn’t fully explore as a young player. Achieving UEFA B and youth award level 3 qualifications in coaching further ignited my ambition to transition into a full- time football environment.

Despite my demanding shift schedule, I’ve managed to stay engaged in football at various levels, cultivating positive relationships and a strong reputation.

Player-Centered Development: I prioritize the holistic development of each player, focusing not only on their technical and tactical skills but also on their physical, mental, and emotional well-being. I tailor my coaching approach to meet the individual needs and aspirations of each player, fostering a supportive and nurturing environment for growth. Positive Reinforcement and Constructive Feedback: I believe in the power of positive reinforcement to motivate and inspire my players. I celebrate their successes, no matter how small, and provide constructive feedback to guide their improvement. I create a safe space where players feel comfortable taking risks, making mistakes, and learning from them. Communication and Collaboration: Open and honest communication is essential for building trust and rapport with my players. I encourage dialogue, actively listen to their perspectives, and involve them in decision-making processes. I foster a collaborative team culture where players feel empowered to share ideas, express concerns, and take ownership of their development.

Lead by Example: I lead by example, embodying the values and behaviors I expect from my players. I demonstrate integrity, professionalism, and a relentless work ethic both on and off the field. I serve as a role model, inspiring my players to emulate my dedication, discipline, and passion for the game.

From kicking a ball in the streets of Misiones, Argentina, at the age of 4, to coaching budding talents across continents, my journey in football has been a testament to passion, perseverance, and the pursuit of excellence.

Hailing from Misiones, Argentina, I embarked on my football odyssey at a tender age, honing my skills in the local youth academy. By 18, I transitioned into a professional career, gracing the pitches of Buenos Aires before venturing into the competitive arenas of Denmark’s 1st and 2nd divisions.

The call of international football led me to Malta, where I spent two years showcasing my prowess in the higher league. Spain beckoned next, offering me the stage of the Second B Division to further carve my name in the annals of the sport.

While my boots danced on the grass, my heart beat for nurturing the next generation of football stars. Throughout my European sojourn, I seamlessly juggled roles, imparting wisdom to young talents, and fine-tuning my coaching acumen.

A New Chapter: Coaching with Cognita Enrich Me
Embracing change, I embarked on a new chapter in the United Arab Emirates, where I not only thrived as a player but also assumed coaching responsibilities in the esteemed 1st and 2nd divisions. It was here that I found my true calling – to impart the wealth of experience, values, and expertise garnered over the years.

I am a passionate football coach with over 13 years of playing experience, having represented my state and played professionally in India. My journey into coaching began with grassroots and girls’ teams, as I was eager to stay connected to the game that has shaped so much of my life. Now based in Dubai, I am committed to continuous growth and to making a meaningful impact on young players. I hold an AIFF D License, AFC C License, and FA Level 2 (UEFA C), and I believe in creating a fun, inclusive, and value-led environment that inspires lifelong love for football.