Peter Augustine 

FA Coach Development Officer 

Peter is an A licence holder who has worked up and down the football pyramid, from the professional game to grassroots football in all its guises. He believes football is truly for all, he is passionate about coach development and believes all coaches owe it to their players to educate themselves, so their players have the best experience possible. Peter has been with the FA since 2015 and before that was an FA tutor in a part time capacity. When not with the FA, he coaches locally as he believes this keeps him up to date with modern trends. A good football coach, who transforms players into champions and leaders both on and off the pitch. 

Darren Grover

PE and Coach Development Officer, London and South East Region

Darren Grover is a highly skilled and passionate professional, dedicated to the field of Teacher and Coach Development. Currently serving as a PE and Coach Development Officer for London and the South East, Darren brings a wealth of experience and expertise to his role having joined the Football Association (FA) in 2019 after spending 11 years as a fully qualified PE Teacher. Darren is a UEFA B licensed coach and has developed an understanding of the game with a strong commitment to nurturing talent. He firmly believes in holistic development and adopts player-centred approach, recognising the importance of addressing Technical/ Tactical, Physical, Social and Psychological aspects to maximize individual potential. Beyond his official responsibilities, Darren actively engages in coaching, demonstrating his commitment to empowering young footballers and honing their skills. In recent years, he has gained invaluable experience working in both the Foundation and Youth development phases, which has further enriched his coaching repertoire.

Mark Leigh

Coach Development Officer: Women and Girls

I have broad teaching and coaching experience which has given me a sound understanding of the structures and player pathways in grassroots football, along with the needs of the volunteer workforce who serve the game. I really enjoy helping others achieve success in support of grassroots football. I want to create a culture that promotes inclusive female friendly football environments as the norm where everyone feels supported and valued in their role and contribution to football and their local community. Why is this important? The important role sport can play as a source of and driver for active social inclusion. Society benefits as sport can increase women’s skills, knowledge and competencies and thereby enhance their social mobility and employability. This is especially true for females from ethnic minorities. Sport itself can benefit from a more gender inclusive workforce leading to new and innovative approaches to coaching, sports development, refereeing and management. Future generations benefit as they feel inspired to achieve their potential in sports and life because of the positive and diverse role models that came before them.