Yeovil Town have announced the management staff of the remodelled youth setup now known as the ‘Performance Centre’.
Jamie Phillip will be the Chief Executive of the newly founded Performance Centre, bringing with him a wealth of experience. Phillip is currently the first team manager of Cardiff City LFC, who won the FA National League Division One South West last season, which saw him earn the Manager of the year.
Overseeing the coaching standards within the green and whites youth system is the returning Mark Challen. Previously the Under 18’s head coach at Yeovil, the 38-year old had a successful nine years at Yeovil where he brought through the likes of Toby Stephens, Ollie Haste and Alfie Lloyd, before departing in 2021. Part of Challen’s role will be to create an inclusive coaching enviroment that will enhance player development.
? We're delighted to introduce the management staff of the #YTFC Elite Performance Centre.
— Yeovil Town F.C. (@YTFC) June 22, 2023
Bob Thomas will see his role change from Football Development Officer with what was the Yeovil Town Community Sports Trust, to Head of Development Phases. With more than 15 years working for the Glovers, Thomas’ knowledge of the club and its values will prove critical for the clubs youth sytsem going forward.
Ben Jones also joins the Performance Centre as the Head of Foundation Phases. Jones’ experience within youth setups will prove invaluable as he was previously head of the South Somerset Regional Talent Centre, based in Bridgwater. The Head of Foundation Phase role will see Jones give his support to players, coaches and parents at age group level.
Roy O’Brien has been appointed the Player Liason officer for the Performnce Centre,the Irishman will be a wlecome additon to the new setup. Having played over 90 games for club, as well as working for the Yeovil Town Community Sports Trust, the 48-year old not only brings with him a wealth of experience but a sense of what it means to play for the Glovers, which he can pass onto potential first team talent. O’Briens role will see him be the connection between players, staff and parents alongside dealing with disciplinary cases.
