01273 463355 | sussex@learnplayachieve.com
At LPA Sussex Academy, our team is made up of expert coaches who combine technical football knowledge with a genuine passion for youth development. Each member is dedicated to creating a positive, high-energy environment where players of all ages and abilities — from first-timers to emerging talent — can thrive, grow, and love the game.
Co-Founder & Director, Learn Play Achieve
With over 20 years of coaching experience, I’ve dedicated my life to helping young players grow — not just as footballers, but as people. My journey started in a professional academy, but like many, I was released and had to take a different path. I went on to complete an engineering apprenticeship and played semi-professionally before injury cut my playing days short at 30. That’s when I made the decision to pour everything into coaching.
I set out to build something different — a technical, player-centred program that gives grassroots players access to the same standards, support, and insight found in the top academies across Europe. That’s how Learn Play Achieve was born.
Over the years, I’ve studied the training environments of clubs like Ajax, Barcelona, Real Madrid, Bayern Munich, Sporting Lisbon, Man United, Man City, and Spurs — and these experiences continue to shape the way I teach, mentor, and build programs. I’ve been lucky enough to deliver coaching clinics and seminars across the UK and Europe, working with players, parents, and coaches from all levels of the game.
My intentions through coaching are simple: to help players unlock their potential — technically, mentally, and emotionally — and become the best version of themselves, on and off the pitch.
Senior Coach | Degree in Football Coaching & Performance – UEFA A License (Ongoing)
I’ve been fortunate to spend much of my coaching career working within the youth development setups at Brighton & Hove Albion and Fulham FC, where I gained valuable insight into high-performance environments and long-term player development. Over the years, I’ve worked with players across all stages of their journey — from grassroots to senior football — and I’m passionate about supporting their growth both on and off the pitch.
My coaching experience includes leading U18 representative and Isthmian league squads, working in further and higher education settings, and being involved with the University National Team and the England Colleges National Team. I’ve also delivered showcase fixtures and ID programs that give young players a platform to be recognised at the next level.
Academically, I hold a BSc in Performance Coaching and a Masters Degree in International Sports Management, and I’m set to complete my UEFA A Licence this month. My focus is on building competitive, confident teams that not only perform but consistently challenge for trophies, while helping each individual reach their full potential in the game.
Senior Coach | UEFA C Licensed – Level 2 Goalkeeping
Hi, I’m Joel. I’ve been coaching at LPA for over 12 years and started at the age of 16 after realising how much I enjoyed passing on the skills and knowledge I gained as a player. Coaching has helped me see the game in new ways and develop a real passion for helping players progress.
I hold multiple coaching qualifications including the UEFA C Youth Module and Level 2 Goalkeeping. I’ve also got 10 years of experience as a referee, officiating at a high level including Premier League fixtures.
This unique blend of coaching and refereeing has sharpened my understanding of the game and helped shape my coaching philosophy: passion and care — helping players grow in confidence and fall in love with football.
Academy Games Coordinator | UEFA B Licensed (In Progress)
I’ve been with LPA for 10 years and currently serve as the Academy Games Coordinator. I’m passionate about developing confident, attacking-minded players who love to be on the ball and play on the front foot. My style is all about high energy, creativity, and getting the best out of every individual.
I hold a UEFA C License and the FA Youth Module, and I’m currently completing my UEFA B. Off the pitch, I’m a big Aston Villa fan, enjoy golf, and love cooking when I get the chance!
Tom Chalaye– Senior Coach | Degree in Football Coaching & Performance + UEFA C Licensed
Hi, I’m Tom. I’ve been coaching for 7 years, including 4 at Worthing FC and 2 with Worthing United Youth. I’ve been with LPA for 7 months now and bring a mix of academic and real-world experience to the pitch.
As a player, I’ve represented clubs like Aldershot Town, Worthing FC, Burgess Hill Town FC and currently Haywards Heath FC. My coaching philosophy is all about creating a competitive, high-energy environment where players can grow, improve, and enjoy the beautiful game.
🎯 Fun Fact: Mike Dean once used VAR to deny me a penalty — probably the first in England
Senior Coach | UEFA A Licensed
I’m a UEFA A Licensed coach with over 25 years of experience in football — as a professional player, agent, and now as a coach. During my playing career, I won multiple domestic titles in Lithuania and Estonia and competed in the UEFA Champions League qualification stages, representing clubs such as Zalgiris Vilnius, FK Ekranas, and TVMK Tallinn.
After retiring from playing, I worked in football management before founding GS Academy, where I coach advanced players aged 13–16. I also currently coach at Worthing College supporting youth players through regional talent pathways on a national level.
My focus is always on developing players in a high-performance environment with discipline, purpose, and a clear understanding of what it takes to succeed in the modern game.