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Academy Director

Ryan Mitchell

We Make Footballers have been running for the past 10 years. Having had great success in London, We Make Footballers have now become a football franchise coaching over 4,000 children every week across over 46 venues.

Our mission is to provide best-in-class professional football coaching for boys and girls of all abilities. Our unique coaching methodology, common sense, and passion for football enable us to create the perfect environment for a child to learn and develop in the Ham area. Through our network, we provide pathways for our players to join professional academies and local grassroots clubs. We’re making football.

WMF Ham Academy was set up in 2016 by Ryan Mitchell who is a primary school teacher, has physical education and sports degree, has played semi-pro football, and has been through all levels at WMF starting from volunteer to franchise owner. As per all WMF academy managers, they believe in the We Make Footballers mission and strive to help players of all abilities become the best they can be!

Why do Children & Parents in Ham Love our Training?

Improved football technique

We break down the football fundamentals in a simple and engaging way. Then, our 1-on-1 drills give your child the time to reinforce what they've learnt at their own pace.

Teammates to mates

We only have 10 children per coach to ensure high quality training and the chance for your child to build friendships. We also have strict anti-bullying policies so they will always feel safe.

Healthy children are happier children

Exercise is best when it doesn't feel like exercise. Our weekly football training and holiday development camps are fun, but also boost your child's fitness, speed, movement, and agility too.

A real brain booster (that's smart!)

It's not just physical and social skills, our unique sessions help with cognitive function too. You will see your child develop better concentration, learning, listening, and decision-making skills week after week.

team

Paul Harkin

Senior Coach

Rory Potter

Senior Coach

Jahnai Howe

Junior Coach

Livtar Dhaliwal

Junior Coach

Lucy Green

Parent Host

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We Make Footballers is fantastic. Our daughter has enjoyed many hours of football training on Saturday mornings and in the holidays. What a great way to motivate kids with sport, teach them to win, to lose, to support others and to strive to be the best they can.

Joe, Parent

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Frequently asked questions

Are you looking for a football training academy to partner with?

How it works: We provide players and teams for local grassroot teams to compete at a competitive grassroots level. The partnered club recommend WMF to players who aren’t quite ready to play at a grassroots level side (players may be too young or new to football).

What safety procedures are in place and are your coaches DBS checked?

All of our coaches are fully DBS checked and at least one member of staff on site will be first aid trained.

How do I get my child in shape for football?

Getting your child into shape for football involves a combination of physical activity, skill development and a balanced diet. Here are some steps you can take to help prepare your child for football: encourage your child to take part in activities that can improve cardiovascular endurance, such as running, cycling or swimming. To be a successful football player, a child will need to work on their speed, agility and endurance. Encourage your child to eat a balanced diet and drink plenty of water. It's also important for your child to rest and recover between exercise. You could take your child to take part in local football training sessions and speak to the coach about what they think your child needs to develop. Your may also want to consider shifting the language from 'getting your child into shape' to 'helping your child lead an active and healthy lifestyle'. Football can be a great vehicle to help make this change.

When should girls start playing football?

Girls can start playing football at the same age as boys, typically around 4 or 5 years old. There is no specific age restriction or limitation based on gender when it comes to playing football. Football is a sport that can be enjoyed by both girls and boys and now there are increasing opportunities for girls to participate in football training and football matches where they can meet new friends, develop their football skills and find a love for the game. It is important to find a football environment which is inclusive and supportive, where girls feel welcomed and encouraged to participate in football.


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