To extend the opportunity to help NJEC players in the professional development phase find their way from non-league football into the professional game, Nigel James Elite Coaching partnered with Hanworth Villa FC in 2018 to allow players the chance to compete in the U18s Allied Counties Youth League and affiliated cup competitions.
The opening two seasons saw the team – managed by Nigel and assisted by Cecil Nyako – win four trophies, including a treble of league, Champions Cup and Grant McLellan Cup in 2018/19.
Players have been invited for trials at professional academies in both the UK and abroad, plus the opportunity to play at first-team level, which is invaluable for their future transition into senior football.
After a successful three years establishing a pathway for his players, Nigel James Elite Coaching joined the London Youth Premier League for the 2019/20 season, entering U11/12, U13/14 and U15/16 teams.
This is a challenging league which is dedicated to bridging the gap between grassroots and professional academies. The standard of football is at the highest level which will act as the best platform to develop younger players and help them to gain a successful career in the game.
All players in these teams will continue to train within Nigel James Elite Coaching, where the focus is on individual player development which can be taken into weekend London Youth Premier League matches.
All players attending the Nigel James Elite Coaching Programme will receive a Players Handbook and be given a full training kit.
Sessions are held at GOALS Soccer Centre Wimbledon – Beverley Way, New Malden, Surrey, KT3 4PH
Luke started his football career at Protec Football Academy, where he was picked up by Barnet. At 17, he signed for Tottenham Hotspur U18s before penning his first professional contract at the age of 18 with Bradford City, where he scored the winning goal with his first touch in senior football.
Luke then went on to play for Barnet, Aldershot, Mansfield Town, Lincoln City and Kidderminster Harriers before a long-term injury put his playing career on hold. This saw Luke embark on his coaching journey with Nigel James Elite Coaching back in 2012, where he was handed the platform to learn and develop his coaching skills.
Luke now specialises in technical development and has worked at academies such as Crystal Palace FC, Chelsea FC and Fulham FC Foundation. Currently in the last stages of the UEFA A license course, Luke has a great rapport with every single player at Nigel James Elite Coaching. He takes time to get to know each individual and thrives in bringing the best out of the players both on and off the pitch.