Until recently David Worrall hadn’t given too much thought about his career once his playing days come to an end. Then almost out of the blue he was asked to help a Sunday team playing in a league in Warrington and he gained his first real experience of managing and coaching a team.

“They had always struggled near the bottom of the league but thought that they could do much better, so I took on the challenge.“ said David.

“I made a few changes, got them fitter with a regular weekly training session and introduced some basic tactical coaching.  Then last season they went on to finish third in the League and were promoted.  I really enjoyed the experience and it made me think that coaching might just be my thing.”

So when Academy Head of Coaching Warren Campbell mentioned that there was an opportunity working with the Academy U13s lads, David jumped at the chance.

“We had some changes of personnel which meant we needed extra cover for the U13s for our Wednesday and Friday coaching session at Northwood stadium,“ explained Warren.

“Despite the fact that he travels in from the Manchester area, David was keen to help and further his coaching experience and he is doing a great job.”

David is currently working hard for his coaching qualification, with the aim of completing Level 3 as soon as possible, and is enjoying working with the young U13 prospects. 

“All the staff at the Academy have been great with me and have helped me so much." David added.

“The approach is very different with younger players and I accept that I have a lot to learn in order to become a good coach, but I am determined to do the best that I can.”

“I’m 29 now,“ David continued, “and I have to accept that my playing days won’t last forever. I am enjoying my time here at the Club and want to play as long as possible but getting my coaching badges is now a major focus for me.

"I’m grateful for the opportunity that the Academy have given me and hopefully it will help me to progress my coaching ambitions that little bit quicker.”