Sports Academy UK Coaches
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Sports Academy Director - Grant FelixI would like to firstly welcome you to Sports Academy UK. My team and I take great pride in being able to offer our students a varied program of sports and team building activities that will have them engaged and active. An opportunity to learn new skills and to make new friends.
"Sport has the power to change the world. It has the power to inspire. It has the power to unite in a way that little else does. It speaks to youth in a language they understand" Nelson Mandela Sports Academy UK students flourish in a healthy and safe environment. Training to improve their level of fitness and inspiring them to have a better understanding of the various sports disciplines. Our classes are lively and engaging and there can be no better way to be introduced to a world of multiple sports - all at the same venue. Our yearly program includes 18, (9) individual sports and (9) team sports, thats 6 different sports each term over the 3 terms of a school year. The coaching program allows students to progress at their own pace. Encouragement is the key. |
Over the years as a coach and School Principal I have seen many children grow and develop through self confidence, communication, team work and respect (for themselves and each other). Sport can be a lifestyle for some, and a way of getting fit for others. At Sports Academy UK, we have an abundance of equipment so that the students are not standing around waiting. Investing in our students potential. Our class sizes are small enough to be personal, but large enough that we can play team sports. Our coaches are QUALIFIED, with many years of experience working with children in schools across the network. We take Child Protection seriously and all of our coaches have a current DBS.
On a personal note: I attained my black belt in Seido Karate in October 1993 in Manhatten, New York under the watchful eye of Grand Master Tadashi Nakamura* (having previously studied Judo, Boxing, Kung Fu and Gymnastics). A 2 week examination which included Kata's, Seido Technical Syllabus, a small matter of being 'blind folded' for 2 hours training at the New York school for Blind, and finally ending with a 6am start for the finale of 40 fights against the Honbu black belts. My karate training has taken me travelling around the world including going to South Africa where I was invited to take part in a televised national tournament. Fortune favoured me that day and I took 2nd place in both the Kata (form) and Kumite (fighting). I have also trained with Karate Branch Chiefs in New Zealand, Australia, USA and the UK. Today, I am still in love with all sports and have an added passion for dance. All great ways to keep fit and healthy.
*Grand Master Tadashi Nakamura is the founder of Seido Karate, breaking away from Mas Oyama and Kyokushinkai in 1976.
On a personal note: I attained my black belt in Seido Karate in October 1993 in Manhatten, New York under the watchful eye of Grand Master Tadashi Nakamura* (having previously studied Judo, Boxing, Kung Fu and Gymnastics). A 2 week examination which included Kata's, Seido Technical Syllabus, a small matter of being 'blind folded' for 2 hours training at the New York school for Blind, and finally ending with a 6am start for the finale of 40 fights against the Honbu black belts. My karate training has taken me travelling around the world including going to South Africa where I was invited to take part in a televised national tournament. Fortune favoured me that day and I took 2nd place in both the Kata (form) and Kumite (fighting). I have also trained with Karate Branch Chiefs in New Zealand, Australia, USA and the UK. Today, I am still in love with all sports and have an added passion for dance. All great ways to keep fit and healthy.
*Grand Master Tadashi Nakamura is the founder of Seido Karate, breaking away from Mas Oyama and Kyokushinkai in 1976.
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Coach & Pro Athlete - Daniel LewisWe welcome Daniel to our team of coaches at Sports Academy UK.
Daniel has a wealth of experience both in coaching and as a Professional Athlete. Having competed at National and International level with Team GB Daniel represented Team Jamaica in the Triple Jump at the 2014 Commonwealth Games. Photo (left) Daniel Lewis of Jamaica competes in the Mens Triple Jump at Hampden Park, in the Glasgow 2014 Commonwealth Games. |
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Assistant Principal - Miguel WilliamsBarnet & Crouch End
Miguel has a wealth of experience and has been part of the team for over 12 years. He is also one of the founder coaches at Crouch End when we opened in September 2013. Miguel is a highly observant and motivational coach. Students respond well to his approach to teaching which stimulates more effort and a desire to improve. Miguel is a firm favourite with the kids. During the week Miguel coaches PE at Secondary education level.
He gives recognition in fine detail and believes “The most important quality you need to coach is enthusiasm. People respond brilliantly to an eager, hard working leader.” |
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Sports Coach - Christian PanayiotouBarnet & Crouch End
Christian has been an integral part of the team for over 11 years, having also coached at Muswell Hill.
Christian was also one of the founder coaches at Crouch End when we opened in September 2013. His classes are fun, and he has a great rapport with the children. Christian says, "I have a huge passion for sport. I have played football at a professional level with Barnet FC, and now I'm coaching multi-sports in many schools in the North London area. Sports Academy UK gives all children of all abilities the opportunity to build important life skills both socially and physically. Working for Sports Academy UK is one of my highlights of the week, where I get to meet all my friends". |
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Sports Coach - Chris ShillingBarnet & Crouch End
Chris is an important member of our Main School coaching staff at Barnet. His classes are fun, active and the children engage in his unique approach. Chris is a PE teacher during the week with over 10 years of coaching. He holds level 1 & 2 Football Coaching Qualifications and has a lot of experience delivering multi sports.
Chris says: "I look to motivate and encourage young athletes to reach their full potential, whilst placing them in a fun and physically active environment. I look forward to class every weekend, and enjoy meeting all of the students" |
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Little Sporties Coach - Amber MacDonaldBarnet
Amber is currently studying Physical and Sport Education at St Mary's University. Whilst studying Amber is also a Primary PE teacher, and Head Sports Coach during the school holidays. Amber also has Level 3 National Diploma in Sports Development, which she passed with Distinction, and was recently offered a place at St Mary's University, to study for her PGCE from September 2019. Amber regularly visits the gym and plays for the University Netball team.
Amber says "Im so excited. Im looking forward to coaching the Little Sporties students and having a fun time with them every Saturday morning. Watching the children develop and improving their technique is very rewarding for them but also for me too. Summer term has to be my favourite time." |
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Little Sporties Coach - Zirak PajnigarBarnet & Crouch End
Sports Academy UK welcomes Zirak to our team. Zirak has an aptitude for sport and has played at a high level. At University he joined the Kickboxing Society and three years later he was competing at National level. Zirak graduated from Southampton Solent with a First Class Degree in Applied Sports Science, and during that time worked with some high calibre teams and athletes including Southampton FC, Trojans Rugby Club as well as numerous academy level athletes. Zirak also has a Lv 1 Dodgeball Coaching Qualification. He has worked at schools and organisations coaching multi sports to children of all ages, and for the past three summers has worked at summer camps in America.
Zirak says " I take pride in the energy and passion I bring to my sessions. I love nothing more than encouraging and motivating children through sport to reach their full potential.Through sport, the children are having fun, whilst learning important life skills that they will carry through to their adult life" |
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Assistant Sporties Coach - Tomy SmithBarnet
Welcome to Tomy Smith, who joins our team at Sports Academy Barnet, as an assistant coach. Tomy is currently studying BTEC in Sports at St Albans College. Tomy has level 1 Football and a Futsal coaching qualification. He is looking to gain valuable practical coaching experience to compliment his studies. We are pleased to offer Tomy that opportunity working alongside our Qualified Coaching Staff.
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Assistant Principal & Sports Coach - Laura TimminsRichmond
Since joining Sports Academy in March 2015, Laura has applied her level 1 coaching qualifications in Badminton, Basketball, Football, Tennis and level 2 Handball. Upon graduating from Physical and Sport Education at St Mary’s University, Laura is now teaching at the University educating training teachers and sports coaches; whilst furthering her studies with a Masters in Education: Pedagogy and Leadership.
Laura says "As well as coaching at Sports Academy schools in Mill Hill, Crouch End and Richmond I have gained further experience at both Primary and Secondary schools teaching Physical Education, gaining a better understanding of the development of young people- including social, intellectual and physical challenges". Laura is currently involved with a programme at Fulham FC Academy where she is introducing the benefits of multi-sports in a performance football setting. Laura has also worked at a summer camp in America for 2 summers as a Tennis Supervisor, as well as a resident counsellor looking after children there. |
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Sports Coach - Rebecca JeppesonRichmond
Becks finished studying a BA in Physical and Sport Education in 2013 at St Mary’s University. She is about to graduate with a Masters in Pedagogy and Professional Practice in Physical Education. This has enlightened her to the vast amount of opportunities and experiences sport can offer children of any age. She is currently studying for QTS and PGCE through a training provider called Teach South East.
Becks says, “As well as coaching, I have worked in numerous primary and secondary schools and have a vast experience working with these age groups. My passion outside of teaching and coaching is Gaelic Football, Badminton and going to the gym". |
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Sports Coach - Darren HugginsRichmond
Darren joined our Richmond team of coaches in January 2016. Darren is qualified level 2 in Basketball & Football. He is a talented all round sports performer himself, with experience in playing a number of different sports from an early age.
Darren says “I enjoy motivating the students and seeing them progress. Sports Academy is unique in that a student can join the club at the age of 4 and train right through to 16 years. Not many clubs can offer that”. |
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Sports Coach - Jess CareyRichmond
We welcome Jess to our coaching staff. Growing up with PE teacher parents meant that she was introduced to a wide variety of sports at a young age, and is incredibly keen to pass on the opportunity to others.
Jess says "This had a big influence on my career choice, and Im currently studying in Secondary PE PGCE". Jess studies at St Marys University, having successfully graduated with a 'first' in Physical and Sports Education in 2017. She then spent the last year working as the Student Union Vice President for sports and societies. Jess says, "The last 4 years I have had the opportunity to work as a Multisports coach at summer camps, gaining level 1 Athletics, and level 2 Netball coaching qualifications in doing so. I'm very excited at the prospect of working for Sports Academy and getting to know all of the students". |
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Sports Coach - Debbie FawibeRichmond
Debbie is currently studying for her PGCE in Secondary Physical Education at St Marys University. She already has a BSc in Sports and Exercise Science, 2:1. Debbie also holds a level 1 Trampolining qualification, and is currently on placement during the week. Her classes are enthusiastic, and we look forward to Debbie coaching the students from April 2019.
Debbie says " I have heard so much about Sports Academy Richmond from friends in the teachng profession. Im excited about joining the team and meeting all the students during the summer term". |
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Sports Coach - Rachel EarleyRichmond
Rachel joined our team of coaches in November 2018. Rachel studied at Brunel University in BSc Sports Science (Management of Sports Development), where she attained Honours (2.1). She has gained valuable coaching experience and also holds a black belt in karate having attended Senior and Junior World, European and National Karate Championships.
Rachel says "My years of being coached in Karate, and love for all things sport, has given me the passion to teach myself. I love working with children, and encouraging them to develop. I look forward to joining the coaching staff at Sports Academy and meeting all the students" |
