Trusted. respected. committed.

8BY8 Professional Sports Coaching is a professional sports coaching organisation powered by some of the area's leading coaches and educators. Our mission is to inspire a lifelong passion for sports participation and competition.

Since 2016, we have helped thousands of children discover the enjoyment of sport through engaging, high-quality coaching. From a child's very first kick of a football to developing talented young athletes, We know what it takes to make it in the game and have over 15 players currently playing within the football academy system.

In 2026, 8BY8 Football and Primary Sports Academy merged companies. However, our focus has always remained the same: to inspire a love of being active, empower children to believe in their own abilities and elevate them to grow both in and out of sport.

We bring together over 65 years of combined full-time coaching experience across football, school physical education programmes, multi-sports, holiday courses, and more. Our team combines professional playing experience, academy coaching, elite management and specialist primary PE expertise, delivering outstanding coaching both in schools and within the community.

At 8BY8 Junior Coaching, we know that every child's journey is different. Development takes time, patience and encouragement. That's why we're committed to supporting every child at every stage of their sporting journey—helping them enjoy the process, embrace new challenges and create memories that last a lifetime.

8BY8 Core Values

Inspire a love of the game
Empower the player with knowledge and experience.
Elevate levels through challenge and opportunity.

The SQUAD

Alex Brown

Owner / Head of Coaching

Alex grew up playing for Crewe Alexandra FC before an injury requiring surgery ahead of his scholarship year eventually led to his release at the age of 19. Alongside playing in the highest semi-professional leagues, he has been a full-time coach since the age of 22. In 2017 he gained his UEFA B licence including advanced youth modules and founded 8BY8 football. He boasts a vast coaching experience, with time spent as an academy coach at Oldham Athletic and Crewe Alexandra FC, assistant manager at Curzon Ashton and many hours spent coaching juniors in various capacities.

Sam Boswell

Head of Junior Football

As a junior Sam played for various local clubs including High Lane FC and Poynton Juniors. A dominant midfielder, he led each team he joined and was quickly awarded the captains armband. At age 16 he was selected to play for the regional U21s team. Sam initially joined 8BY8 as part of his Duke of Edinburgh certification and became a firm favourite with the kids. He is now an important full-time member of the team and has recently achieved his UEFA C license. He is also studying business management at Manchester Metropolitan University alongside his role at 8BY8.

KATIE THORNewill

Head of Physical Education

Katie has over 15 years of sports coaching, within schools and extra curricular. She also has built a reputation for her own excellence in racket sports and is widely known for her professional coaching standards, positive attitude and expert tuition. She was recently crowned a padel champion, winning a tournament competing against players in the North West.

Kobe mcwilliams

Lead Coach

Ryan Brooke

Director / Head coach

Ryan made the step up to academy football later than most, receiving his first trial at Oldham Athletic, age 14, which led to him signing academy forms at 16. At age 18 he signed his first professional contract and that same year made his professional debut scoring a winning goal against Watford. After injuries left him sidelined, Ryan spent the following years in the top levels of non league football and after building a reputation as a ruthless striker and still player today. He has been a full-time coach for 7 years, holding his Level 2 certificate and founded 8BY8 football alongside Alex.

Jack Grant

Lead Junior Football Coach

Jack started playing football aged 6. He made his first team debut for Northern Ireland Championship side H&W Welders aged 16, scoring after coming off the bench. He moved to Manchester in 2021 playing for Poynton JFC before moving to Richmond Rovers. Despite his age, Jack is a vastly experienced and dedicated coach with a degree in coaching

Warren Clarke

Senior coach

Warren spent 9 years in the youth ranks at Sheffield Wednesday. He won a triple accolade of player awards during the 2021/22 Northern Premier League title-winning season and has recently renewed his deal with Chorley FC. He holds his FA level 2 coaching badge and has been a professional coach for over 7 years, starting his coaching journey at Qualitas coaching company in Sheffield. Warren has shown excellence in coaching sports of all kinds and children of all ages through his adaptability and professionalism.

izzy morris