This course is an official learning material of the Lao Football Federation.
Learning Outcomes
Course Description
This module explores sociological theories and concepts that clarify coaching as a social and political endeavor. We will critically assess current football issues using these theoretical frameworks, considering the cultural contexts of participants to enhance informed professional judgment and decision-making. Learning will occur asynchronously online, enabling participants to gain a deeper understanding of the material. A live synchronous online class will be held in the final session, providing an opportunity for participants to address questions and further enrich their comprehension of the module.
About the Coach Educator
St Mary’s University, Twickenham, London
Laos Football Federation are proud to present this course in partnership with St Mary’s University, Twickenham London—a leading institution renowned for its commitment to the development of sport, coaching, and applied research.
St Mary’s has established a strong reputation in football education and performance research, working closely with elite partners such as Chelsea Football Club and the League Managers Association (LMA). These collaborations ensure that their programmes and research remain grounded in the real-world demands of high-performance football, blending academic rigour with practical relevance.
Ashley GUMBRELL
Course Lead – MSc Performance Football Coaching, Faculty of Sport, Technology and Health Sciences, St Mary’s University, Twickenham, London
Ashley Gumbrell is the Programme Lead for the MSc Performance Football Coaching at St Mary’s University, Twickenham, where he joined the faculty in December 2022. He brings more than 15 years of experience across the coaching and sports-development landscape, combining academic expertise with extensive applied practice.
Before joining St Mary’s, Ashley lectured at the University Campus of Football Business and held coaching roles with Brighton & Hove Albion and Fulham FC. He also served as Head of Football Workforce at Surrey FA, where he led coach and referee development programmes across the county.
As a FA Coach Educator for over nine years, Ashley has mentored and delivered courses to aspiring coaches throughout Surrey and South London. In addition to leading the MSc Performance Football Coaching, he contributes to several other degrees at foundation, undergraduate, and postgraduate levels — including the BSc Sports Psychology programme, a field closely aligned with his academic background. He holds a BSc in Sport Psychology and Coaching Sciences and an MSc in Applied Sport and Exercise Psychology (2013).
Ashley’s research interests centre on coach education and development, with a particular focus on coach communication strategies during training and on matchday. He has collaborated with Minute 9 in researching game-day communication dynamics between players and management, using data and performance analysis to translate findings into actionable insights for improving team talks and decision-making under pressure.
Course Content
About Instructor
Duration: 1 h 39 m
Language: English
Course Includes
- 8 Lessons