Led by Dr Gavin Devereux (pictured above talking to the group) and the team of Professors at the University, the Coaches Academy had the opportunity to visit the Sports Science Laboratory and receive demonstrations and talks on the array of equipment.

In addition, the professors discussed with the coaches the impact of sports science within coaching and key considerations when working with players to support their development.

Suffolk FA Senior Football Development Officer, Michael Cornall who leads the Coaches Academy, said: “It was great evening of insight, information and discussion on Sports Science.

“The coaches had the opportunity to access an array of equipment in the Lab and gain an understanding on how this supports players within the elite game.

“Dr Gavin Devereux and his team were fantastic throughout the night and I would like to personally thank them for giving up their time on Monday night.”

This Sports Science evening was the last event of the calendar year for the Suffolk FA Coaches Academy, who have had the opportunity to attend a variety of events.

Since September, the coaches have received two practical development evenings, a discussion on Technology within coaching and Sports Science evening.

The second half of the season will see the Coaches Academy visit professional Academies, a Match Analysis session, various support evenings, the FA Mentoring Adults course and an opportunity to gain access to the FA Coach Mentor Programme.

“At Suffolk FA we want to give coaches a great football experience and we firmly believe that the Coaches Academy provides a varied, bespoke programme that supports their development and opportunities within coaching,” said Michael.

“This is a pivotal part and objective of the Suffolk Coaching Network key strand and our overall Football Development Strategy.”

The Suffolk Coaching Network incorporates all coach development programmes within Suffolk FA and the first half of the season has seen six FA Licensed Coaches Club events, nine clubs be supported  through the FA Coach Mentor Programme, support through the FA Skills Programme sponsored by Lidl and a dedicated twitter page to Suffolk Coaching.