FAW Pro Licence candidates visit Finch Farm, home of Everton FC's Academy.
The FAW UEFA Pro Licence is the pinnacle of coaching education, designed to equip the next generation of elite football managers with the knowledge, skills, and expertise required to succeed at the highest levels of the game.
As part of their ongoing learning, the latest FAW Pro Licence cohort recently undertook a vital learning experience at Everton FC’s state-of-the-art training facility, Finch Farm.
During their visit, the group gained invaluable insights into key aspects of modern football management, including data-driven recruitment, academy development pathways, and the club’s strategic game model. Everton’s approach to using analytical insights to inform critical decision-making provided a unique perspective for the candidates, demonstrating how data and innovation continue to shape the footballing landscape.
One of the standout sessions was delivered by Everton’s Academy Head of Coaching, Carl Darlington, who detailed the coaching methodologies implemented within the club’s academy system. Alongside him, Gareth Prosser, Academy Director, offered a comprehensive overview of the academy setup, illustrating the club’s commitment to nurturing young talent and preparing them for the demands of professional football.
In addition to academy insights, the candidates also benefited from in-depth discussions with Everton’s Director of Football, Kevin Thelwell. He provided a detailed breakdown of the club’s Head Coach Succession Planning process, outlining the strategic approach to ensuring continuity and long-term success. This was further reinforced by Charlie Reeves, Everton’s Head of Performance Insights, who demonstrated the importance of analytics in shaping coaching and tactical decisions.
Another critical aspect of modern football explored during the visit was club recruitment. Dan Purdy, Everton’s Head of Club Recruitment, delivered a session on the complexities of identifying and securing talent. His presentation gave the FAW Pro Licence candidates an inside look at the extensive scouting networks, data analysis, and decision-making processes involved in assembling a competitive squad.
Reflecting on the experience, FAW Chief Football Officer Dr. David Adams emphasised the significance of exposing Pro Licence candidates to real-world case studies. “A vital part of the Pro Licence is to identify best practice and provide candidates with case studies to review and reflect upon,” he said. “We are all grateful to Everton staff for sharing their valuable experiences.”
The FAW Pro Licence is a benchmark in coaching excellence, fostering a culture of learning, innovation, and continuous professional development. Experiences such as this visit to Everton FC reinforce the importance of strategic thinking, adaptability, and the application of best practices within the modern game, ensuring that Welsh football continues to develop high-calibre coaches ready for the challenges of elite management.