Coaches and Committee

Good day! I have been playing football since I was 3 years old and working my way through grassroots football teams all the way to the Portsmouth Youth team, where sadly I had to retire due to injury. After taking some time out of the game I have recently returned for the simple fact that I want to pass on my knowledge of the game to the next generation. I am very keen to make football fun! I find this is the best way for children to be able to learn the amazing game of football and help them grow in confidence. 

I am currently a serving soldier in the British Army and have been so for 12 years. In my spare time I enjoy golf and playing football…it gets competitive when my 7 year old son and 4 year old twins get involved. Previously, you would have found me on a rugby pitch where I played for the Army and UK Armed Forces. I have since been converted to football and enjoy coaching and mentoring.

Hey there, I'm Mark, your friendly neighborhood football dad! At 35, I've been kicking a ball around since I could walk. My old man was my first coach, and now I'm passing on the love of the game to my own boy. By day, I'm out at sea with the Navy, but come evening, you'll find me on football pitches either coaching or playing! I've played in defence and in goal, so you know I've got a good 'AVE IT' in me. Oh, and despite the heartache, I'm a die-hard Newcastle United fan. Howay the lads! 

As a mum to 3, I was never interested in football until my son started playing. Little did I know, that first match would ignite a passion. Rain or shine, I've been there for every kick, every goal, cheering on his team. I've even become an avid Pompey fan (PUP).

By day, I'm a HR professional so when the opportunity came up to become the Club Sec at Portsdown Pumas, I jumped at the chance. Driven by my newfound love of the beautiful game, I handle administrative tasks and support players, coaches, and families who make up this vibrant football club. I'm committed to ensuring that Pumas continue to thrive both on and off the pitch. 

It was my son's new-found love of the game when he was 5 years old that first introduced me to the world of football and I've felt passionate about it ever since.

My career has predominately found me in the Voluntary Sector and, currently, for a Charity that supports adults with learning difficulties.

I've enjoyed every second of my son's football journey and I'm grateful to be able to contribute to the journey of other Portsdown Pumas players in my role as Committee Member.

As a Mum of three, I know the importance of fostering a positive and inclusive environment for children to thrive in their football development.
With several years experience in school administration, I am able to bring a wealth of financial management and administrative expertise to the role of Club Treasurer.
Through this role, I aim to contribute to the growth and success of the club, creating opportunities for coaches and young players to develop their skills and passion for the game.  

I am a mum of two and my youngest has been football obsessed since he could kick a ball, which has propelled me in to the wonderful world of football!  

I have always worked with children and young people and have volunteered as a school governor and Scout trustee. 

I have a passion for safeguarding and I am excited to take on the role of Welfare Officer at Portsdown Pumas as I strongly believe that football should be safe, fun and inclusive for everyone.