MATT Stebbings aims to ensure football in Suffolk doesn’t just survive but thrives in future.

The 32-year-old has been appointed as the new Football Development Manager at Suffolk FA.

Matt (pictured above) was previously Community Education Manager at Lowestoft-based charity Sentinel Leisure Trust Group, where he worked for the last 14 years.

A former student at Kirkley High School and University of Lincoln graduate, Matt is currently heading up major projects such as ‘Positive Change’ and ‘Learning Together (SEND)’ through external funding via County Councils, Education and Skills Funding Agency and European Union Social Education Fund.

Prior to that he was the group’s Senior Physical Activity and Health Manager, managing and leading the delivery of sport, leisure and play development plans through SLT for local authority contracts, private business, education and other health related opportunities.   

Since June 2019 Matt has also been the Women’s Physical Performance Coach at Norwich City FC, leading the physical development of the women’s first team and reserve team.

Matt said: “I am looking forward to getting started with Suffolk FA and getting stuck into developing football across the county.

“I am really excited about the future plans within the Football Facility Plans and working with the team to ensure these can be delivered to increase growth and retention across the county.

“I am hoping to put my mark on the Football Development Manager position within Suffolk FA and build on the already great work completed by Jodie and the team previously.

“I want to get out pitch side and work closely with the clubs, leagues, staff and volunteers across the county to understand and support their visions to ensure Suffolk football doesn’t just survive but thrives.”

Matt, who takes up his role on Monday, September 13th, succeeds Jodie Allard, who left in June as she was moving abroad.