Academy Scholar Will Stovin Takes First Steps in Coaching

As Worksop Town Academy’s Extended Level 3 Diploma in Sport continues to go from strength to strength – both on the pitch and in the classroom – several scholars are widening their work experience beyond playing, venturing into other careers within football and sports.

One such student is 17-year-old Will Stovin (pictured), who took his first dip into coaching last week, impressing coaches both within the Academy and those visiting.

A Sheffield Wednesday fan, having played football from the age of 8, Stovin has had his fair share of playing experience playing at a grassroots level with Retford United. Since joining the Academy, Will has thrived, taking in everything he can while casting a commanding figure in defence.

“I think, with the quality of facilities and staff at the club, the opportunities are endless,” Stovin said after the tournament, “I think it’s a matter of choosing what you want to do in football and letting the people around you know [so they can] help you reach your goal.” 

“I think the programme is a great place for any young person to grab their aspirations for a career in football, and a real chance to get your foot in the door and kickstart your career plan. I’ve just starting working towards my FA Level 1 Coaching badge and [I’m] getting loads of experience with the academy coaches as well as being supported by the Academy staff to reach my goal”.

Stovin has now made his unofficial coaching debut, taking charge of the Under 10s for their final game of the tournament, and gave some insight on his fledgling coaching style, as well as an estimate for his future development 

“I think my style is always stay[ing] enthusiastic, encouraging hard work, which I think aligns with the club and its values. The coaches at Worksop Town Academy are great people to learn from, and they continue to teach me loads every day. As a fan, I like to watch entertaining, attacking football, so as a coach I would want to replicate that.”

That enthusiasm was certainly felt on the sideline as the nerves settled, with Will becoming more and more animated as the game progressed, demonstrating great communication with his players and proving his suitability to the role. When asked about his overall thoughts on the Academy and the Extended Level 3 course, his focus and desire to progress were obvious.

“The main benefits [to the course] are being able to be around football all day, every day, and to learn while playing the game, as well as working towards a qualification that has the potential to get you into a professional football career.”

Will’s journey is not a unique experience in the Academy programme, with other scholars gaining experience in refereeing, coaching, and other officiating roles alongside their course.

For more information on the Scholars programme, click here.