The Administrative team
Our current Executive Committee have a vast range of experience, qualifications and qualities. These include both sporting, social and other projects, such as football clubs, other sports clubs, youth clubs, other social societies and teaching.
Each member of the Executive Committee are friendly, enthusiastic & proactive. This enables the club to run both smoothly, and in the most professional manner.
The Executive Committee are elected annually at the club’s AGM. This year’s committee was elected in June 2010
Coaching
All of our coaches are F A qualified and/or licensed. They have attended training in a variety of areas, delving from coaching, to first aid and child protection. They have had experience with a variety of football clubs. Some of our coaches work within the game full time, and may have also had experience with professional football clubs.
Our coaches are committed to providing a service of the highest quality. We take pride in the appearance of our coaching. We believe that we have the opportunity to create something positive for all those involved in the project. Whether this be through fun and imaginative games for beginners, more advanced and appropriate training for our football teams, or advanced coaching for advanced players, who may be in a transition towards a professional youth academy. Our coaches aim to promote our high standards to all.
The Founding Fathers
Shield Academy was founded in 2007 by Dan Seymour, with the help of Matt Harding & Richard Fox. Since 2009 the club continues to be directed by Dan, alongside the club’s Executive Management Committee.
The Director of Football
Dan Seymour is the Founder/Director of Football at Shield Academy YFC, managing the day-to-day programme at the club. Entering his 8th season in coaching, Dan began coaching at the age of 16 after a serious knee injury had prevented him from playing on. Within 8 years Dan has gained knowledge and qualifications in order to help him pass on information to young people within London and Essex. Dan established Shield at the age of 20, and has spent the past 4 years watching the club grow and develop.
Dan currently works for Chelsea FC’s Youth Academy as both an Academy Scout and youth coach for their Development Centres. His roles include identifying talent for their Academy system, and coaching young players who are looking to progress into the Youth Academy.
Dan is also a qualified youth worker. Dan worked with Sinclair House (Jewish Care UK) for 6 years. Dan has completed various youth work courses, resulting in him being awarded the Princess Diana Memorial Award in 2004, in recognition of his services to youth work. Dan also holds a degree (BSc Hons.) in Applied Sports Science/Sport Development. In 2009, Dan qualified as a Tutor/Examiner of the Level 1 and 2 national Certificates in Sport Leadership, and has recently qualified to teach Basketball, Handball, Gymnastics, Tennis and Trampolining.
In 2010, Dan qualified as a secondary school teacher of Physical Education. He currently teaches at a school in Waltham Forest.
Club Chairman
Acting Club Chairman is Shield newbie Clive Morgan.
Club Vice Chairman
In his second season at Shield, Grant Conway was recently appointed the club’s second ever Vice Chairman. An avid Leyton Orient fan, Grant is charged with assisting the Chairman in ensuring that the club operates smoothly.
Club Secretary
West Ham fan Brian Green currently heads up the administrative aspects of Shield Academy. His role includes liaising with the FA, local council and other organisations. Brian is now in his fourth season at Shield, and his third on club management.
Club Treasurer
Trish Lancaster is arguably the founding Mother of Shield Academy, joining the club on its very first day of operations. Very quickly, Trish found herself appointed Club Treasurer and has been in this position for 4 seasons! Trish’s role involves managing the day-to-day finances at Shield Academy YFC.
Club Welfare Officer
Shield newbie Clive Morgan arrived at the club in July 2011, and was appointed CWO almost immediately. With a wealth of experience, Clive ensures the welfare of the young people at Shield Academy.
Club Social Secretary
Angie Hart is responsible for organising events and fundraisers in order to bring attention to Shield Academy YFC. Angie is in her second season at Shield!