Team Spotlight Series - Sam White (Co-Founder)

Welcome to our team spotlight, introducing one of our very own, Sam White. The cornerstone of our football development program. 

Currently residing in the UAE, more specifically Dubai, Sam brings a wealth of experience & insight from over 15 years in the professional game. Originating from the UK, his journey has taken him around the world, to over 50 countries, having an impact in the game in over 25. 

Sam has worked at every level of the footballing pyramid, from Premier League & leading international stars, right the way down to players at the very start of their journey! 

Sam’s path in football is unique, marked by his early days as an young aspiring footballer, which ultimately did not come to fruition. However, his desire to build a career in the game shone though. Despite facing the challenges of a career that didn’t take off as planned, he turned what some might see as a setback into a powerful driving force for his future. This transition from a “failed footballer” to an elite force in player development & coaching is a testament to his resilience and determination to stay connected to the game he loves. 

Sam spent 14 valuable years in the UK, shaping the development of players at Southampton and AFC Bournemouth, before heading out.

• Expertise & Vision within Player Development

Sam’s expertise lies in his comprehensive approach to player development, combining and understanding physical metrics with psychological resilience and technical excellence. All in the preparation and maintenance of athletes for the needs of the modern game. 

With 15+ years of experience in the professional game, both in the UK and Dubai, he has equipped himself with invaluable insights into the details and necessities of football at the highest levels. 

Through his work, Sam has developed a keen eye for the talent needed, an understanding of what it takes to succeed, and a dedication to nurturing the next generation of football stars, as well as maintaining the longevity of current professional footballers.

Invaluable Experiences in the UK

Sam’s journey was nurtured in the UK at some of the best developmental academies in world football. Having spent 12 years at Southampton Football Club in a variety of roles, Sam was able to see, learn, develop and assist first hand in the development of some of the nations most talented young players. Southampton’s academy has been known for decades to be a consistent production line of some of the best young players in the country. 

During Sam’s tenure at the club, he was able to assist, coach & gain invaluable insights from observing elite level players such as Theo Walcott, Luke Shaw, Gareth Bale, Adam Lallana, James Ward Prowse and Alex Oxlade Chamberlain to name a few. 

Sam then spent a smaller stint with AFC Bournemouth as their Youth Development Lead at the academy, a club with another rich recent history for producing talented young players. Whilst working for the 2 south coast clubs, Sam was able to also gain valuable experience working for the Premier League, spending valuable time on overseas projects aimed at developing coaches and players around the world.

Relocating to the UAE has allowed Sam to expand his horizons and apply his wealth of knowledge in a new, and very dynamic environment. The move from the UK to Dubai reflects his commitment to bringing his expertise to different corners of the football world, especially in developing regions. In Dubai, Sam has continued to make significant contributions to the sport, leveraging his experiences to enhance player performance and development strategies. 

Sam has worked with a number of clubs in the region developing a variety of programmes, and has consistently worked privately with some of the games top players as they take their additional training regimes out to the middle east throughout specific time-frames in their respective seasons. 

Alongside ex Newcastle United star man, Steven Taylor, Sam has founded a company in the UAE, a full process football company, providing endless support to players and the game itself. We are pleased to be a supporting partner of the company.

Sam’s personal philosophy centers on growth, resilience, and the belief that every player has the potential to achieve something in the game. With the right guidance and support ‘almost’ anything is achievable. His own journey from a player with unfulfilled aspirations to a highly respected professional in football development underscores his message that setbacks can be springboards for success.

Sam is not just a member of our team; he is a beacon of inspiration and a living example of how dedication, expertise, work ethic, and a positive mindset can transform challenges into achievements. With Sam on board, we are confident in our ability to nurture talent and shape the next generation of talent in the game.