A 17-year-old footballer has launched his own coaching business to help young players build their skills and confidence.
College student Sam Barnard has set up Samba Football Coaching, offering tailored one-to-one and two-to-one sessions for children aged five to 12 which focus on areas such as defending, attacking, shooting and control.
He started training at the age of four and joined Bradwell Bombers FC at six, playing with the club for nine years. At 16, he stepped up to men’s football and now plays for Hanley Town on Saturdays and Ye Olde Crown FC on Sundays.
As well as playing, Sam qualified as a referee a month after his 14th birthday and was named Junior Referee of the Year in his first season with the North Staffs Junior Youth League. He continues to referee for both Saturday and Sunday leagues.
He has previously worked as an assistant coach with Midland Soccer Coaching and will return this summer to support their summer holiday soccer schools. He is currently completing a Level 2 sport coaching qualification at Newcastle College and holds a Playmaker coaching badge and a valid DBS certificate.
Sam said: “I enjoy coaching because it allows me to help kids who aren’t so confident or who just want to improve their game. It’s very rewarding to see the improvement in confidence and ability as they progress.”
Sessions, which take place on Wolstanton Marsh, cost £20 for an hour and are designed for individuals or pairs, such as siblings or friends. Sam hopes to grow the business further in the future, expanding into group sessions and continuing to work towards a full-time coaching career.
For more information see his Facebook page Samba Football Coaching or call 07305 886530.
