Coaching bursaries await recipients

Ogley - who administers the EVO-STIK League's Coaching Development Fund to underwrite 50 per cent of the costs of UEFA B courses - pointed to the success of one his latest graduates this week as former Nantwich Town youth team head coach Matthew Fisher settled into his new role as first team coach at Litherland REMYCA.

Fisher was presented with his UEFA B certificate by a proud Ogley before leaving the Dabbers for the North West Counties Football League outfit this summer, main picture, after guiding the EVO-STIK League Premier Division club's unbeaten U18s to a North Staffordshire Youth League championship and cup double in May.

Ogley, who presented Fisher with his bursary award in 2015 before he passed last year, said: "The success of all our candidates who've been awarded bursaries has been fantastic and something the league is very proud of as we look to support the next batch that will be coming through this season.

"There has been a big change in how the courses are being laid on and Matthew is another great example of the benefits for ambitious coaches as they start coming online again now the 2017-18 is underway.

"He worked very hard and enjoyed great success and as he continues to develop the league will be watching his progress with the senior side at Litherland with great interest. Now I'm looking forward to working with the coaches who come forward this season to progress and achieve their UEFA B qualifications."

Before joining Paul McNally's touchline team at REMY's Litherland Sports Park, Fisher urged other coaches to snap up the financial help that is on offer to earn the key UEFA B badge and further their own careers.

The coach, who masterminded extended runs in the FA Youth Cup and impressive victories over the likes of Manchester United's youth team during three years at the Weaver Stadium, said: "I'm very proud of the success of the youth team and I think getting my UEFA B badge made be a better coach. I'm just happy that my development helped the club. The boys were absolutely fantastic and will do great in the future I'm sure, wherever their journeys in football go.

"Every coach considering doing their badges who is lucky enough to be at a league club can benefit like I did. It really made a difference for me. The courses are expensive but it is not just about half the money being covered. Knowing you have the league's behind you and Mark to call on if you need help or advice is great when you are finding your way."

"The courses are not easy but its well worth it for the skills and confidence you learn," added Fisher who helped 13 players graduate to the first team of former manager Phil Parkinson during his time with the Dabbers.

"The first thing anyone should do who is considering going on a course is contact their club and the league through Mark. It's a fantastic scheme and I'm delighted to have benefited from the league's initiative."

For more information on the EVO-STIK League's Coaching Development Fund contact Mark Olgey via email at: ogsshae@hotmail.com.

Images courtesy of Litherland REMYCA/Pitchero

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