From College to Elite Coaching: Progressing Through UEFA Levels

Arron Marshall’s passion for football has taken him from studying Sport and Fitness at East Sussex College to his current role as Academy Manager at Soccer Elite FA.

His journey demonstrates how dedication, skill, and the right guidance can open doors in the world of sport. Arron is also a UEFA A and Elite Youth Award holder, which is one level below the UEFA Pro License and represents one of the highest coaching qualifications in European football, highlighting his expertise and commitment to coaching at the top levels.

After completing the Level 3 National Diploma in Sport and Fitness at East Sussex College between 2009 and 2011, Arron began building a career in coaching and football analysis. He has previously worked as a Set Piece Analyst for Bristol City Women’s First Team and as a Director of Coaching in the US - experiences that helped shape his coaching philosophy.

When asked about what inspired him to pursue coaching and analysis, Arron said: “It took me a bit of time if I’m honest, I originally went into banking and realised that wasn’t the path for me, and decided to try and navigate a path within sports where I can help nurture and develop talent and help others succeed. It started with a small part-time job on the side, but it made me hungry to make it a full-time profession.”

His time at East Sussex College played a key role in developing the skills and mindset needed to succeed in sport. “It was eye opening, it allowed me my first real insight into coaching, and delivering sports whilst also looking at the ‘why’,” Arron shared, reflecting on his college experience. “Why do we coach, why would I use that intervention method, why would I use that pitch size and more. It also showed me how people skills are a vital component of coaching, being adaptable to each individual for what they need.”

Arron’s career highlights include working with youth players, developing talent, and seeing the impact of his coaching on the next generation. One of his most rewarding moments so far has been:

“Seeing the players I have worked with go on to succeed in their career goals, whether that’s playing professional football, committing to a university with a scholarship, or even pursuing their own career in coaching because of the experiences they have had. Every time this happens, the most recent one is always my most rewarding moment.”

For students considering a career in sports coaching or football analysis, Arron offers this advice:

“Get on the grass! Familiarise yourself with coaching different players, genders, ages, and abilities to give yourself the best experience. Whilst I have learned loads from doing my licences and degrees, I also learned loads coaching post 16-year-olds, and coaching 4-year-olds.”

He is a strong advocate for the course he studied at East Sussex College, encouraging young people to explore their passion for sport: “I would [recommend studying Sport at East Sussex College], it’s a great insight into specialising yourself in something you are passionate about,” said Arron. “Allow yourself to go ‘all-in’ for something you enjoy and feel you can make a difference. Colleges are really offering more variety now, with specialised courses in football and more, so speak to tutors, read the brochures, attend open evenings and make a good informed choice.”

Arron’s approach to coaching focuses on developing young talent both on and off the pitch, helping players reach their full potential. “Culture, communication, and consistency,” he told the College. “Making your sessions a safe environment where players feel they can be themselves, but also understand they will be challenged and have to be prepared to learn and push their own limits. Being able to vary your communication for what that young player needs in those exact moments, and being consistent where players know you are there for them and to make them better, on and off the pitch.”

He also credits key lessons learned during his studies for influencing the way he works today: “‘Know thyself’ - knowing how you operate and what makes you perform to your highest level as a coach or educator is vital. I know that reflection is a really important part of my practice, however, I am better at reflecting on a match or session 24 hours after to take emotion and clouded judgement away and see things more clearly.”

Looking ahead, Arron is ambitious and focused on growing as a coach and making a lasting impact on the players he mentors. “I want to continue making a difference and supporting young players to achieve their dreams. Eventually, I’d like to become an educator of coaches myself, to share the experiences I have had with others, to help shape the future generation of young coaches coming into the game.”

Arron Marshall’s story is a reminder that with hard work, dedication, and the right support, studying at East Sussex College can be the first step toward an exciting career in sport.