BAME coaches could be fast-tracked into EFL clubs next-season in Premier League-backed 23-month course scheme

BAME players will be offered a fast-track path into coaching at EFL clubs from next season. The BAME coach placement scheme, funded by the Premier League and the PFA, will offer six places per season on a 23-month course. Prem chief executive Richard Masters said it was “vital” that barriers preventing non-white players from entering […]

BAME players will be offered a fast-track path into coaching at EFL clubs from next season.

The BAME coach placement scheme, funded by the Premier League and the PFA, will offer six places per season on a 23-month course.

PA:Press Association

Prem chief executive Richard Masters said it was “vital” that barriers preventing non-white players from entering the coaching pathway were ended.

He said: “We need more BAME coaches entering the system to create greater opportunities throughout the professional game.”

The scheme will be piloted next term with the six coaches, funded by bursaries, working in the first team or academy structures at their placement clubs.

It will be open to any PFA member and offer a learning and development programme including age group coaching, recruitment, analysis and administration.

We are determined to ensure this also translates to substantial BAME representation in all other areas of the game.

PFA chief executive Gordon Taylor

Players’ boss Gordon Taylor said: “The PFA is proud to support a diverse membership on the pitch, and we are determined to ensure this also translates to substantial BAME representation in all other areas of the game.

“We have designed this collaborative bursary scheme so that talented future coaches amongst our membership can flourish within a structured coaching environment, which includes meaningful pathways for future employment.”

EFL chief executive David Baldwin agreed it was “imperative” that more opportunities were made available to allow BAME players to move into coaching.

Reuters

Of the 91 professional clubs in the top four tiers, only six have BAME coaches.

Baldwin added: “We know the game needs to do more to ensure the diversity and inclusivity we see on the pitch week in, week out, leads to better representation in coaching and managing if we are to embed significant change for the future.”

Doncaster boss Darren Moore, chairman of the Premier League’s black participants’ advisory group, said: “I hope that we can provide an important opportunity for candidates to develop their expertise and experience at EFL Clubs to support the transition into full-time roles in the professional game.”