Four young coaches have taken their first steps in the game thanks to a partnership between Colchester United Football in the Community, Active Essex and the Royal Foundation.
The young apprentices have joined up with the U's community scheme thanks to funding from Coach Core, a programme run by the Royal Foundation, which is now in its fifth year.
The quartet who have joined the successful U's set-up are as follows:-
Alex Smith
I have played football since a young age, for Colchester United Development Centre as well as Maldon Saints and Chelmsford Alliance.
I have previously experienced coaching in primary schools and thoroughly enjoyed it. I studied at Plume School and was at college there for two years. I chose the Coach Core programme because I want to develop as a coach and increase my knowledge with the FITC team.
Sam Beavis
I have played football since a young age. Played for Stanway Rovers and Heybridge Swifts, I have previously coached Halstead Town U14s, which I thoroughly enjoy!
I studied at the Sixth Form at Thurstable and earnt A levels in BTEC and Media Studies. In the Coach Core programme, I hope to develop my knowledge and learn more about football coaching.
Lily Knightly
My background in sport ranges from gymnastics to Judo and equestrian.
I joined Coach Core to help me progress as a coach and educate children and adults in sport and I aspire to develop as a coach and earn my Level 2 in coaching football this year.
Jack French
My background is in football, I have played for 9 years for Chelsea Development Centre, Ipswich Development Centre and Colchester United Development Centre.
I joined the Coach Core programme to become a football coach with good knowledge to support young players and help them develop. My aspiration is to become a full time football coach in the future.
More about Coach Core
In July 2012, The Royal Foundation launched Coach Core; a new, innovative and exciting sports coaching apprenticeship targeting young people who wish to gain further education and employment in sport.
Since then, apprentices in cities across the UK have been able to enjoy an intensive but incredible opportunity to become educated and employed for 12 months with some of the biggest sports providers and clubs in the industry.
With a full support team in place, apprentices have thrived both with their professional and personal development as we look to enhance the lives and opportunities for all Coach Core students from the first day to the last.
The Royal Foundation are working in partnership with Active Essex, the County Sports Partnership for Essex who will manage the Team Essex Coach Core programme.