The former coaches of Bukayo Saka, Reece James and Eberechi Eze have reunited to celebrate their former players' success as England begin their World Cup campaign. Nigel James, Colin Nixon and Paul Hall joined forces at a community training session in Wimbledon, reflecting on the crucial role grassroots coaches play in developing future stars.
Coaches share their stories
Nigel James, Reece James' father and a qualified coach, Colin Nixon, Saka's first grassroots coach at Greenford Celtic, and Paul Hall, Eze's youth coach at QPR, met with aspiring coach Samuel Park and local youngsters. They discussed how grassroots coaching helps young players thrive while providing positive role models and strengthening communities.
Colin Nixon said: "Bukayo always had an incredible talent, but what really made him stand out was his positive and hard-working approach to the game. One of the important roles a coach plays is to help young people develop the confidence to believe in themselves so they can unlock their full potential. Watching Bukayo represent his country is incredibly rewarding and I’m really proud of the person and player he is - the role a coach plays in that process shouldn’t be underestimated."
Impact of the Chase football coaching programme
The Chase football coaching programme is helping to create more inspirational coaches across the UK by providing funded access to introductory coaching qualifications and professional coaching bursaries for people where cost is a barrier. Since launching, the programme has funded 7,000 grassroots and professional coaching qualifications, with 4,500 coaches already completing their qualifications.
Nigel James added: "Coaches are integral to creating the right environment for each individual to grow and thrive – whether that means representing their country or contributing positively to society. Watching Reece and Lauren play for England is a proud moment for everyone who was part of his journey."
Paul Hall said: "Eberechi's story is a reminder that every player's pathway is different. There were challenges and setbacks along the way, but he never stopped believing in himself. One of the most rewarding aspects of coaching is helping young people develop core skills like resilience and confidence that can help them thrive both on and off the pitch."
Aspiring coach inspired
Samuel Park, an aspiring coach and beneficiary of the Chase programme, said: "Listening to the coaches behind some of England's biggest stars has been a once in a lifetime opportunity. Hearing about their journeys really brings home the early impact a coach has in shaping the players and the people they become. It's reinforced my ambition to continue coaching and help more young people in my own community fulfil their potential."
Deborah Keay, Chief Marketing Officer at Chase, said: "Behind every player representing their country is a coach who helped unlock their potential. Through the Chase football coaching programme, we're helping more people access coaching opportunities and develop the skills, confidence and qualifications they need to inspire others. As excitement builds around this summer's tournament, we hope even more people will consider taking their first step into coaching and supporting the next generation of players."
