Expert mentoring for aspiring young soccer players
Unlock Your Full Potential Today
Expert mentoring for aspiring young soccer players
empowering young soccer players
Welcome to The Winning Mentor Life Coaching
At The Winning Mentor, we are dedicated to nurturing the talent of young soccer players. With years of experience as a former professional player, coach and mentor, we provide tailored support to help individuals unlock their full potential, and navigate the pitfalls of college life.
Are you at the beginning or part way through your College Soccer journey? Contact us to see what we can do for you.
my background
ABOUT ME
My name is Neil Wainwright, a former professional soccer player. I have worked in soccer for over 30 years as player, coach, mentor and coach developer. My clubs include Wrexham, Sunderland, Darlington and Morecambe. I am a UEFA A Licence coach, FA Advanced Youth Award Holder, PGDIP in Elite Coach Development, and the EMCC Mentoring Qualification. I am passionate about helping young players fulfil their athletic development, as well as how that intertwines with their off field lives and studies.
MY PROFESSIONAL SOCCER CAREER
From an apprentice footballer at Wrexham, transferring to Sunderland at the age of 21 for £400,000, to then moving on to Darlington and Morecambe, with over 450 appearances. My career has had many highs and lows, enabling me to understand young soccer players at various stages of their development.
MY COACHING CAREER
My many roles include, 1st Team Manager, Development Centre Manager, Professional Development Phase Lead Coach, Academy Head of Coaching, and Academy Manager. I have coached players from the age of 9 to adult across the professional game, with many successes across that time.
TESTIMONIALS
Ollie Ras - Morecambe FC
I am and will be forever grateful to Neil for giving me my first break in full-time football. It was a pivotal moment in my career where I wasn’t sure it was possible and his belief in me didn’t stop there, likewise the support. Neil has continued to offer guidance and advice throughout my journey. He is a true model for both coaches and
I am and will be forever grateful to Neil for giving me my first break in full-time football. It was a pivotal moment in my career where I wasn’t sure it was possible and his belief in me didn’t stop there, likewise the support. Neil has continued to offer guidance and advice throughout my journey. He is a true model for both coaches and players, demonstrating exceptional leadership, understanding, and dedication. Neil is an outstanding listener who always takes the time to understand and support both players and colleagues, leading by example. His encouragement has given me the confidence to push myself and achieve more, without this I wouldn’t be in the role I am today. I can't thank him enough for all the support and time he’s put into my development as both a person and Coach.
Adam Mayor - Millwall FC
Neil was my coach at Morecambe FC. When I first joined I was very low on confidence, which he played a massive part in me regaining it and helping me believe in my ability again. Throughout the whole 3 years I was with him, he helped me improve my game in many key areas, such as positioning and timing of movements. He always made it clear
Neil was my coach at Morecambe FC. When I first joined I was very low on confidence, which he played a massive part in me regaining it and helping me believe in my ability again. Throughout the whole 3 years I was with him, he helped me improve my game in many key areas, such as positioning and timing of movements. He always made it clear, if there was ever anything I was unsure of, then I could always ask him for advice, for which I can't thank him enough. I believe that big part of my success in professional football has come from the help he gave me to improve my overall game.
Kiyomi McCausland - KSU
Kiyomi McCausland - KSU
Coach Neil’s mentorship has been a game-changer in my soccer journey. I first met Coach Neil when I was 13, and even before we started working together, he consistently checked in with my parents on my progress out of genuine care and curiosity. Alone this speaks volumes about his character. Coach Neil's investment in players extends beyo
Coach Neil’s mentorship has been a game-changer in my soccer journey. I first met Coach Neil when I was 13, and even before we started working together, he consistently checked in with my parents on my progress out of genuine care and curiosity. Alone this speaks volumes about his character. Coach Neil's investment in players extends beyond formal training, demonstrating his passion for development and his dedication to those he mentors. Since beginning to work with him, his impact has already been invaluable.
With his experience as a former professional player, Coach Neil brings a level of expertise that few others can offer. His deep understanding of the game allows him to provide expert guidance in every aspect of my development, from analyzing film to refining my technique and setting clear, strategic objectives for growth. But what truly sets him apart is the way he empowers me to take ownership of my development. Our sessions are not just about instruction, they are about collaboration. He pushes me to take a leading role in shaping my progress, helping me build personalized plans that target every area of my game.
Beyond his technical knowledge, Coach Neil’s professionalism and commitment to player development make him an exceptional mentor. He is invested in my growth not just as an athlete but as a well-rounded individual, providing valuable insight and guidance both on and off the field. He takes the time to understand me, offering guidance and support beyond the game itself. His ability to combine high-level expertise with a genuine interest in his players’ success creates an ideal learning environment. Having the opportunity to work with a mentor of this caliber has been instrumental in my development, and I greatly appreciate his leadership and support.
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The Winning Mentor
