Conor Dunne has confirmed his Sunderland departure as changes continue within the club’s academy set-up
Sunderland’s academy shake-up is continuing with another departure confirmed behind the scenes, as Physical Performance Coach Conor Dunne has announced he is leaving the club.
Dunne, who has been working within the academy setup after joining from Ireland, confirmed his decision via social media, bringing an end to his spell on Wearside after what he described as an “incredible period” at the club.
Dunne played a role across multiple age groups within Sunderland’s academy, contributing to the club’s wider player development programme during a period of continued investment in youth progression. Reflecting on his approach to the role, he highlighted the importance of development beyond the pitch.
“After an incredible period with Sunderland AFC, I’ve made the difficult decision to move on from my role as Academy Physical Performance Coach,” he wrote on LinkedIn. “The role has challenged me in many ways, from moving to a different country, to building relationships with new colleagues and players, and working across multiple academy teams. Each experience has helped me grow both professionally and personally.”
“Working within elite youth sport has reinforced the importance of a ‘person first, player second’ approach. Supporting young athletes goes far beyond physical development; it’s about helping them grow as individuals first. As practitioners, we play a key role in shaping behaviours, instilling positive habits, and reinforcing life lessons that extend well beyond the pitch.
“It's up to us create an environment that drives engagement, not only within the physical performance programme, but across all multidisciplinary areas. Ultimately, it’s about equipping young players with the tools for life, with the long-term aim of developing them into professional footballers.”
Dunne also paid tribute to the players and staff he worked alongside during his time at Sunderland. “I’m grateful for the opportunity to work with such talented players and dedicated staff, and proud to have been a small cog to the big wheel in the development of the next generation coming through the club! A special thank you to Jamie A. Harley for providing me with so many learning opportunities and trust within the role.
“Equally, I extend my gratitude to my Academy P&M team who have I've made so many life-long memories with - Jordan Harvey, Alasdair Hamilton, Lee Fairley, Jude Ramsey, Toby Tremlett, Emily Davis, James Snoad-Speck, Jonny Carr, Ellie Brownrigg, James Hadfield and Paul Manjooran. Thank you to everyone at Sunderland AFC - Ha'way the Lads!”
Prior to joining Sunderland, Dunne built up a varied background in performance and conditioning across both football and GAA environments. He worked as a Physical Performance Coach and Sports Scientist with Wexford GAA, supporting the senior men’s football team, while also holding a role as Head of Youth Athletic Development at Ballyboden St Enda’s GAA in Dublin.
His earlier experience included time with Bohemian Football Club as an academy strength and conditioning coach, as well as a long spell with FIREFIT in Dublin, where he progressed from strength and conditioning coach to head coach.
Dunne’s exit marks another change within Sunderland’s academy structure as the club continues to evolve its staffing setup behind the scenes, with Alasdair Hamilton, who has been working as an Under-21 Physical Performance Coach at Sunderland since April 2022, also recently announcing his departure.
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