Meet The Academy Staff
With over 30 years of professional experience - including club ownership and scouting for leading UK clubs - the Academy staff bring first-hand experience and a genuine understanding of the game at every level.
Uniquely, the academy is run solely by football professionals, offering players a level of expertise and authenticity rarely found in school-based programmes.
Director of Football - Russell Hullett
Russ Hullett is a former professional footballer who began his career at Derby County FC, before finishing his playing career as a player-manager in Southeast Asia. Following his transition into coaching, Russ has held senior coaching and scouting roles across both the Premier Leagueand English Football League. He also gained international experience as First Team Manager of Lillehammer FK.
Widely recognised as a youth development specialist, Russ has worked with both international-level players and Premier League talent, bringing a wealth of elite experience to player development at all levels.
Coaching Qualification:
- -UEFA A License
- -KNVB (Holland FA) International Coaching License
- -FA Youth Award 3
- -FA Regional Coach Developer
- -FA Talent ID Scout
Coaching & Scouting Experience:
- Nottingham Forest FC - Lead Youth Academy Coach
- Aston Villa FC- Head National Scout
- West Bromwich Albion FC- Head National Scout
- Notts County FC - Academy Manager and U23 Coach
- Manchester United FC - Professional Scouting Team
- Lillehammer FK (Norway - Head Coach
- Oxford University - Head Women's Coach
- Various Semi Pro Head Coach/Coaching Roles
Director of Development and Pathways - Jamie Bennett
Jamie Benett is a highly experienced football professional with a career spanning all areas of the game, including playing, coaching, management, and football business development. After his playing career, Jamie moved into football management, where he successfully developed clubs, improved performance standards, and supported players in progressing into the professional game.
He is also recognised as an early pioneer in the USA soccer scholarship sector, having built and operated a successful scholarship company that has helped numerous student-athletes secure opportunities in the United States.
Jamie brings a unique combination of on-field experience and strategic leadership, helping to create clear pathways for players to achieve their football and education goals.
Coaching Qualification:
- UEFA B
- FA Talent ID
Coaching and Scouting Experience:
- Mansfield Town FC - Lead Academy Coach
- Chesterfield FC - Academy Coach
- Eastwood FC - Manager and Owner
- Manager for various semi pro clubs