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Leeds Beckett alumnus appointed head coach at Leeds United
He took up his new football role this morning, leaving Barnsley Football Club, where he was also Head Coach.
Studying at Leeds Beckett has prepared him well for the new role - Paul completed his BSc (Hons) Sports Coaching in 2013, followed by an MSc in Sport Coaching in 2016.
Speaking previously about his studies at Leeds Beckett, Paul said: “As soon as I finished the undergrad I thought ‘why not? I’ll do the postgrad’. It took it to another level and built a model of performance, if you like, and how I work now is based to a large degree on what I’ve learned through my university studies.
“They helped me unpick lots of football knowledge, gain lots of contacts and build a profile in the game. They are fantastic for that in terms of making me think differently and approach coaching differently – not the game of football but coaching, management and organisation."
Paul has helped inspire current students, returning to Leeds Beckett to deliver coaching presentations.
Peter Mackreth, Dean of the Carnegie School of Sport, said: “We’re delighted that Paul has been appointed as Head Coach at Leeds United – it’s a well-deserved appointment. Paul comes with extensive experience and I’m delighted that his studies at Leeds Beckett and support from our Sports Coaching Department have helped him get where he is. He’s got the benefit of practical experience, backed up by academic theory, which is a winning combination.
“It’s been amazing to watch his progress and we couldn’t wish for a better ambassador for our School of Sport. Good luck Paul!”