Coaches:
Contact Details:
Coaches:
Contact Details:
Coaches:
Contact Details:
Coaches:
Contact Details:
This is where the journey begins with our mini mavericks programme for boys and girls. The focus is on fun, enjoyment, and exploration, introducing children to the game in a safe, engaging environment. We work on basic motor skills, ball mastery, agility, and coordination, laying the foundation for future development while building confidence and a love for the game. The players will also get the chance to visit our partner professional clubs for a great football experience.
In this phase, players begin to refine their technical skills and develop a deeper understanding of the game. Training sessions focus on dribbling, passing, shooting, first touch, and individual ball control, all delivered in fun, challenging formats. Players also start to build essential decision-making and teamwork skills, alongside preparing players for potential trials,
This stage introduces a more structured and performance-focused environment. Players are guided through more advanced tactical understanding, position-specific training, and physical development. Mental resilience, game intelligence, and preparation for elite performance are key themes, alongside preparing players for potential trials, scholarships, or progression into professional academies.
IOF Academy, formerly known as Cosmo IFA, is recognised as the UK’s most successful private football academy, with over 100 players signed to professional clubs since its founding in 2007. Established by former professional footballers Russ Hullett and Jamie Bennett, IOF Academy continues to lead the way in elite player development and lo
IOF Academy, formerly known as Cosmo IFA, is recognised as the UK’s most successful private football academy, with over 100 players signed to professional clubs since its founding in 2007. Established by former professional footballers Russ Hullett and Jamie Bennett, IOF Academy continues to lead the way in elite player development and long-term progression.
Now rebranded and revitalised, IOF Academy introduces IOF Mavericks FC—a dynamic football club delivering professional coaching twice weekly by experienced academy coaches. The club offers clear pathways to elite football, alongside broader career development opportunities within the sports industry.
Russ Hullett has held senior coaching and scouting roles at Manchester United FC, Aston Villa FC, Chelsea FC and Nottingham Forest FC, and served as first-team manager at Lillehammer FK in Norway. He currently works with The Football Association as a Regional Coach Developer, bringing exceptional expertise and leadership to the programme.
Jamie Bennett, a former football club owner, now serves as IOF’s Director of Pathways and Talent. Under his leadership, IOF Mavericks FC offers a range of exclusive opportunities, including USA Soccer Scholarships and a Full-Time Football and Education Programme for players aged 10 to 19, delivered in partnership with Abbotsholme School. This innovative programme blends academic excellence with high-performance sport, providing one of the most comprehensive and forward-thinking pathways in UK youth football.
At IOF Academy, our mission is to provide genuine pathways into football—not only for those pursuing a playing career, but also for students aspiring to work in the wider sports industry.
To achieve this, we deliver a Full-Time Football and Education Programme for students aged 10 to 19, run in partnership with Abbotsholme School. This pio
At IOF Academy, our mission is to provide genuine pathways into football—not only for those pursuing a playing career, but also for students aspiring to work in the wider sports industry.
To achieve this, we deliver a Full-Time Football and Education Programme for students aged 10 to 19, run in partnership with Abbotsholme School. This pioneering initiative serves as both an elite youth academy for talented players and a platform for students interested in sports careers, offering routes into USA Soccer Scholarships, professional football, and connections with pro football partners.
At IOF Academy, we believe in creating a football community that is inclusive, ambitious, and connected. Our programmes are open to both boys and girls, and we proudly cater to players across all levels—from those on a high-performance pathway aiming for elite football, to those focused on development and growth within the game.
We are com
At IOF Academy, we believe in creating a football community that is inclusive, ambitious, and connected. Our programmes are open to both boys and girls, and we proudly cater to players across all levels—from those on a high-performance pathway aiming for elite football, to those focused on development and growth within the game.
We are committed to building bridges between independent and state school sectors, ensuring that football talent and passion are nurtured regardless of background. Through our partnership with Abbotsholme School, we provide access to state-of-the-art facilities, allowing players from all walks of life to train and develop in a professional, inspiring environment.
By uniting players, families, and schools from across the region, IOF Academy is more than just a football programme—it's a community where opportunity, development, and excellence are shared.
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