Sunderland take novel approach to replacing Under-18s Lead
Fin Lynch (pictured) will lead the 15s to 18s along with Jordan Moore
Written by Training Ground Guru — October 25, 2023
SUNDERLAND have opted to replace Under-18s Lead Adam Asghar with two coaches who will work across the entire U15 to U18 age range and focus on the individual development of every player.
Asghar left the Black Cats earlier this month to become U21s Lead at Southampton. Fin Lynch and Jordan Moore, who worked with 13s to 16s last season, will now “jointly assume responsibility for all players between U15 and 18 and collaboratively deliver a programme that is geared towards their individual development,” Sunderland explained.
Academy Manager Robin Nicholls said that the new structure would “focus on each player’s individual development rather than the traditional approach of coaching a team.”
Carlton Fairweather and John Hewitson will assist with the 15s to 18s, with Graeme Murty continuing as overall Head of the Professional Development Phase (18s to 21s).
In addition, Jonjo Dickman has been promoted from U11/12 Lead to Head of the Youth Development Phase and Individual Development Coach for the Category One side.
Head of Coaching Stuart English said: “After a lengthy interview process, we are really pleased to internally promote Fin, Jordan and Jonjo into their new roles. “These three individuals have shown an incredible desire to help the Academy continue to move forwards by going above and beyond to ensure the players individual needs are met every day.
“They all share a passion to work for the Club and an energy to deepen their own learning whilst improving collectively, which is fundamental to everyone at the Academy of Light.”
Nicholls added: “The opening of the U18 Lead Coach role gave us the opportunity to achieve two strategic aims that are important to us here at the Academy and overall, at the club.
“It provided us with the chance to give a pathway to two high potential coaches within our structure and allows us to put in place a programme that focuses upon each player’s individual development rather than the traditional approach of coaching a team.”
