A number of changes have recently been made to the coaching staff at the Vale Academy.
Harry Wilshaw has left the coaching team after over 20 years of dedicated service to the Club. During his time at the Vale, Harry coached many young players and was instrumental in the development of a significant number who progressed to professional level including Billy Paynter, Chris Birchall, James Gibbons, Nathan Smith and Dan Turner.
As well as his coaching duties Harry was a highly committed member of the Academy, organising
annual trips to International tournaments in Northern Europe for the Academy players and their
families. Everyone at the Vale sends Harry and his family best wishes for the future.
To add to the extensive Academy coaching team a big welcome goes out to former fans favourite
Anthony Griffith, who will work alongside Danny Pugh with the under 14 and under 16 teams.
Meanwhile, Scott Brown and first team goalkeeping coach Ronnie Sinclair will both be helping to
nurture the Academy goalkeepers.
Academy Manager Sevvy Aslam commented: “We are delighted that Anthony has joined our
coaching team and it’s also great that current first team players are prepared to give up their time to
help with coaching duties.
“There’s no doubt that their extensive experience will be a great benefit in helping to develop the Academy youngsters.”
Under Sevvy’s guidance the Academy is working to create an environment conducive to learning
based on a holistic approach from everyone in his team. This is known as “The VALE Way”
V-Vicinity
A-Approach
L-Learning
E-Everyone