Football coach selected for Seniors World Cup squad
A sports coach for Reaseheath College has been selected to play for England in the upcoming Seniors World Cup in Thailand.
Steve Jones, a highly respected coach, and former Northern Ireland international with 30 caps, will be flying out to Bangkok at the end of May to join the England squad for the prestigious tournament.
Steve boasts a successful career in professional football since the age of 16, after being signed by Blackpool under the management of Sam Allardyce. He’s played for played teams like Crewe Alexander, Burnley during their Premier League promotion, and has even competed against David Beckham at Old Trafford during the World Cup 2006 qualifier.
In the past 12 months Steve has brought his expertise to play as part of the NAR Kollective, a Nantwich-based sports company which is a key partner in enhancing the training and learning experience for Reaseheath’s sports students.
Through high-level coaching and a clear pathway into the industry, NAR Kollective empowers students enrolled in the college’s Level 3 National Extended Diploma in Sports Coaching and Development. Students benefit directly from weekly coaching sessions delivered by Steve and fellow NAR Kollective colleagues, ensuring they receive the best possible preparation for their chosen careers.
He said: “I’m fortunate to work with such a talented team at Reaseheath College. The students here are a pleasure to coach, and I’m incredibly proud of the Category 1 team’s recent win in the ECFA North West Men’s Regional Football League tournament. Their dedication and hard work really paid off.”
While in Thailand, Steve won’t be forgetting his passion for inspiring the next generation of footballers and has committed to visiting schools during his time there, giving out Reaseheath football kits, and participating in football sessions with the students.
Speaking of his upcoming trip, Steve said: “I’m incredibly honoured to have been selected for the England Over-35s World Cup squad. It’s a fantastic competition, and I’m excited to be representing England alongside some talented teammates. While I’m there, I’m also looking forward to giving back to the sport by visiting schools and interacting with the students.”
Simon Cushman, Programme Leader for Sports at Reaseheath College and University Centre Reaseheath, said: “Having a coach of Steve’s calibre has provided an incredible opportunity for our students to learn from one of the best. His experience and expertise help them to reach their full potential. We wish Steve all the best in his upcoming venture in Thailand.”
The 16th Seniors World Cup will take place in Bangkok from June 3 to 8, 2024.
