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Our Mission

Bradford (Park Avenue) Academy is a professional footballing academy based in Bradford.

 

We are passionate about providing high quality football training to children aged 6-18, with a focus on helping them reach their full potential and achieve their goals.

Our experienced coaches use a combination of on-field drills and classroom sessions to provide a unique and comprehensive learning experience. We believe in creating a safe and positive environment for all of our players, so they can develop their skills and reach their desired level of success.

full time staff

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Thomas mcstravick

Academy Technical Director

Thomas McStravick is our Academy Technical Director, working primarily behind the scenes with local businesses, charities and schools. 

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He has vast knowledge in the world of high performance sports coaching, with over 15 years of experience under his belt.

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Thomas worked as a coach with Leeds United's Academy prior to joining the BPA Academy, and is also an Ex-Irish Premier League and Championship player. 

Education:

  • Leeds Beckett University - Bachelor of Science in Sport Event Management

  • Belfast Metropolitan College - HND Sport & Leisure Management

Certifications:

UEFA A Licensed Coach

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gary ratnik

Junior Academy & Performance Centre Lead

Gary Ratnik is our Junior's & Performance Centre Lead Coach, and has spent lots of time working with youngsters in schools in Bradford.

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owen murphy

Academy Coach

Owen Murphy is one of our coaches at the BPA Academy.

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He primarily works with the u19s teams, coaching groups 1, 2 and 3 and managing groups 2 and 3. 

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Owen also coaches with the Performance Centre boys and girls, and plays part-time Football with Albion Sports.

Education:

  • BTEC Level 3 in Sports (Extended Diploma)

Certifications:

UEFA C Licensed Coach

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brad smith

Academy Medical & Performance Lead

Brad Smith is our Academy Medical & Performance Lead, working with the players on any injuries, fitness levels, and analysing data using the Fitogether trackers.

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Brad has stood in on some u19s games as manager, coaches with the Performance Centre, and previously stood in as First Team physio in the 22/23 season. 

Education:

  • Masters Degree in Sport and Exercise Therapy

  • Bachelor of Science in Sports and Exercise

Certifications:

Emergency First Aid in Football

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andy cooper

Academy Technical Advisor

Andy Cooper is our Academy Technical Advisor, working primarily behind the scenes with Thomas McStravick on recruitment, scouting and tactics.

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Andy is also FC Halifax Town's Assistant Manager, and recently won the FA Trophy at the legendary Wembley Stadium!

Education:

  • Hull College - Sports Science

  • Longford College - Diploma in Leadership in Sport

Certifications:

UEFA A Licensed Coach

part time staff

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colm rafferty

Junior & Performance Centre Coach

Colm Rafferty is one of our coaches primarily working in our Primary School Provision,  Performance Centre sessions & working alongside Gary Ratnik across our junior teams. 

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Colm won the English Schools FA Award for Young Volunteer of the year, in recognition for his efforts with Bradford Schools Football Association. 

Education:

  • Association of Science - AS, Sport Coaching

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mason o'malley

First Team Player & Academy Coach

Mason O'Malley is a First Team Player for
Bradford (Park Avenue), and also coaches with the Academy.

PREVIOUS CLUBS

  • Hunslet Boys

  • Huddersfield Town 2015-2019

  • Scunthorpe United 2019-2023

  • Ilkeston Town (Loan) 2023

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jordan preston

First Team Player & Academy Coach

Jordan Preston is a First Team Player for
Bradford (Park Avenue), and also coaches with the Academy.

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PREVIOUS CLUBS

  • Blackburn Rovers 2013-2016

  • Guiseley 2016-2017

  • Gateshead 2017-2018, 2019-2021

  • Halifax Town 2018-2019

  • Boston United 2021-2022

  • Spennymoor Town 2022-2023

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