Godbold chosen to head county programme

The UEFA A licensed coach, already the Football Association's regional coaching development manager for his Ryman North club's region, has been appointed as county coach developer and head of coaching for the new Suffolk FA Coaches Academy.

Godbold, pictured, will also deliver a number of Suffolk FA Learning Courses while supporting the development of coaches through their FA coaching pathway courses, one of the key strands in FA chairman Greg Dyke’s England Commission to improve the standard of coaching nationally with the ultimate aim of helping to win the World Cup again one day.

The former Lowestoft Town skipper, who was on the books of Stoke City for six years before helping the Trawlerboys win the Ryman North title and going on to become a respected member of the coaching staff at Crown Meadow, is delighted to be joining the strong programme the Suffolk FA already have in place with an FA Skills team for five to 11-year-olds and six FA mentors.

Godbold, who succeeded David Batch at King's Marsh in January, said: “It’s an extremely exciting initiative for coach development in the county. My role will not only see coaches qualify through courses but more importantly offer a support mechanism for coaches thereafter.

“The Suffolk Coaches Academy is a unique opportunity to further develop the standard of coaching in the county, and I am extremely proud to be part of the county’s programme.”

Suffolk FA football development manager Nathan French said: “I’m delighted that the FA has appointed Jamie as our new county coach developer for Suffolk. This is great news for the county and I know Jamie needs no introduction to most people involved in grassroots football.

“After working with Jamie on various projects over the last five years, I’m delighted to be working closely with him on his new role and specifically our coach development programmes. We are all about promoting positive environments and giving people a great football experience and I know Jamie shares these views."

He added: “We are passionate about developing coaches in Suffolk and I believe we have some fantastic coaches involved in grassroots football. I’m looking forward to seeing Jamie support these coaches in the months and years ahead.”

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