Loughborough Football Programme Manager Mat Stock will take on a new role at Premier League side Wolverhampton Wanderers, whilst Men’s Head Coach Alex Ackerley will also be embarking on a new challenge at the end of the current season.
Both Mat and Alex were formerly students at the University and volunteered many hours into the football programme through the Loughborough Sport Coach and Volunteer Academy. Through their commitment and hard work, both have played a pivotal role in transforming the football offer at Loughborough to what it is today.
Speaking about his Loughborough journey and the new opportunity at Wolves, Mat said:
“From joining Loughborough as a Sport Management MSc Student 6 years ago I have thoroughly enjoyed my time within the football programme.
“I’d like to thank the CVA for their help and support during my time as a student in addition to Richard Allen, Alex Ackerley, Margaret Folwell and the Wider SDC team whilst in the role of Football Programme Manager.
“The programme is in a great position to grow both on and off the pitch. With the skills and experiences, I have developed working at Loughborough I am looking forward to a new challenge working at Wolverhampton Wanderers.”
Alex, who is UEFA A Licensed, enjoyed three successful years as Head Coach and looks back fondly at his time at Loughborough:
“I consider myself extremely fortunate with all the outstanding people that have had an influence on me through Loughborough sport in my 10 years as a student and staff before I make the next jump on my journey.
“I’m excited to see where Richard and the new head coach take the programme over the next few years and also to see Mat succeed in his next step at Wolves.”
Richard Allen, Director of Football, added:
“Although both Mat and Alex leaving will be a massive loss to the programme, I am delighted that both are moving forward on their football journeys and that Loughborough University has played a part in their development.
“Both have been pivotal to the success and growth of football on campus, from performance to our IMS and recreational programmes, men’s, women’s and Futsal.”
The 2021 campaign concludes a natural 4-year cycle together for Mat and Alex and Loughborough football offers opportunities to people at all levels.
It has strategic partnerships in place with Chelsea, Liverpool and Derby County. It also works closely with the Premier League and the Football Association.