LEADERSHIP TEAM
JAMIE MEHMET
FOUNDER & DIRECTOR
- Jamie is the visionary behind Ballers Academy, bringing over 20 years of experience in coaching, talent development, and player progression into professional environments.
- He is one of only 150 recipients of the prestigious FA150 Award, presented by HRH Prince William at Buckingham Palace, in recognition of his exceptional service to grassroots football.
- Thanks to Jamie’s leadership and trusted industry partnerships, Ballers has grown from a small initiative of eight members to a thriving academy serving over 1,000 families weekly in Southwark.
RICHARD WHITE
COMMUNITY DIRECTOR
- Richard is a UEFA B-licensed coach with over two decades of experience in grassroots and community football. Since joining Ballers, he has been instrumental in developing inclusive, free-to-attend programmes.
- Under his leadership, Ballers has expanded its reach with initiatives such as girls-only football, disability sports, and walking football for older adults. Richard’s commitment ensures football is accessible for all—regardless of age, ability, or background.
ARCHIE MEHMET
PLAYER LIAISON OFFICER & DIRECTOR
- Archie’s journey is a powerful example of Ballers Academy in action—rising from a participant to progressing through the professional academy system, and now serving as a mentor for the next generation.
- His lived experience allows him to support and guide young players with empathy, insight, and genuine inspiration, helping them stay focused and achieve their goals both on and off the pitch.
BILLY MEHMET
DEVELOPMENT MANAGER
- Billy is a professional footballer whose playing career spanned England, Scotland, Turkey, Australia and Asia. His global experience and deep understanding of the game bring international flair and credibility to the academy.
- In his role at Ballers, Billy arranges guest coaches, fixtures, and overseas tours—offering players valuable exposure to professional environments. His mentorship and network provide game-changing opportunities for our members to grow and shine.
ACADEMY COCHES
JACK SAMMOUTIS
ACADEMY COACH
- Jack is a former professional footballer who has played for Millwall FC, AC Omonia, and represented Cyprus at the international level.
- His passion for coaching, combined with elite playing experience, makes him a standout mentor at Ballers. Jack is loved by participants and respected by staff, thanks to his commitment to developing players of all abilities both on and off the pitch.
DEAN PALMER
ACADEMY COACH
- Dean is a UEFA A-licensed coach and Head of Coaching at Leyton Orient Academy, where he oversees the development of elite youth players and coaches.
- At Ballers, Dean brings guidance through structured session planning and player development pathways. His strong industry connections and dedication to excellence open doors for our members to progress in their football journeys.
TOM BEERE
ACADEMY COACH
- Tom is a former AFC Wimbledon midfielder who brings first-hand experience from the professional game.
- He leads sessions through our academy programme and supports our youth inclusion sessions, and holiday camps. His calm leadership and football IQ make him a valuable asset for developing young players.
CRAIG DUNDAS
ACADEMY COACH
- With over 600 senior appearances, Craig is a veteran of the game—most notably with Sutton United, where he also served as the club’s first team fitness coach.
- A UEFA B-licensed coach, Craig’s wealth of playing experience and wide football network bring immense value to our members journeys, especially those transitioning into senior football.
CHARLIE PEARCE
ACADEMY COACH
- Charlie has been a cornerstone of Ballers for over 13 years. He delivers sessions across academy and community initiatives and leads our adult and youth disability programmes.
- As our safeguarding and welfare lead, Charlie ensures a safe, inclusive environment for all. His passion and leadership are crucial to the success of our grassroots programmes.
DARREN SMITH
ACADEMY COACH
- Darren is a UEFA A-licensed coach and the Associate Dean at UCFB. He combines academic leadership with practical coaching experience at all levels.
- Through his platform, The Coaching Exchange, Darren also supports the wider coaching community. At Ballers, he raises the standard for players and coaches alike.
CHAN QUAN
ACADEMY COACH
- Chan brings over 15 years of coaching experience and a supportive approach that builds trust with participants.
- He has played extensively in non-league football and has unique expertise in supporting children with behavioural needs, ensuring every player feels seen and supported.
NICHOLAS WRIGHT
ACADEMY COACH
- Nicholas is a UEFA B-qualified coach and Head of Operations at the Amateur FA. He has experience across grassroots, academy, and amateur football.
- As a former lead phase coach at AFC Wimbledon, Nicholas creates pathways for our members and ensures Ballers maintains a balance between excellence and inclusivity.
JORDEN WILSON
ACADEMY COACH
- Jorden is a rising coaching talent whose high-energy, positive style has quickly made him a favourite among members.
- He also coaches our girls’ football programme as well as at King’s College University, bringing fresh energy and a commitment to growth into every session.
VICTOR BORODE
ACADEMY COACH
- Victor is a UEFA B-qualified coach with over 15 years of international experience, having managed professionally in Nigeria and coached in China.
- His diverse coaching background and global perspective support members at all stages of their development at Ballers.
DYLAN TONERY
ACADEMY COACH
- Once a participant in Ballers programmes, Dylan has transitioned into a coaching role with passion and purpose.
- Supported by the academy through learning and qualifications, Dylan now inspires the next generation, embodying what it means to grow within the Ballers family.
JEROME JOHN
ACADEMY COACH
- Jerome is a UEFA A Licensed Coach and specialist Goalkeeping Coach with a wealth of experience at both academy and first-team levels. His coaching journey includes significant roles at West Ham United and, most recently, at Wycombe Wanderers, where he contributed across both the academy and first team. Jerome brings expert knowledge and a proven track record in developing goalkeepers, and will play a key role in supporting and enhancing the Ballers Academy goalkeeper programme.
AARON HARRINGTON
ACADEMY COACH
- Aaron is a UEFA A-licensed coach with a strong track record across grassroots and professional football. He’s coached at Millwall, Leyton Orient, and Oldham Athletic, and gained further experience in Lithuania.
- His global outlook and high coaching standards enrich our members development.
ANGIE RUIZ GIRALDO
SPORTS MENTOR COACH
- A former participant turned coach, Angie supports our girls’ programme and serves as a mentor across the academy.
- With the support of Ballers, she has earned her qualifications and now plays a key role in developing young talent through mentorship and lived experience.
CLAIRE DE HARA
COMMUNITY COACH
- Claire previously worked with Crystal Palace’s community programmes and has extensive experience working with children with special educational needs.
- She is dedicated to creating inclusive environments where every child can thrive and grow in confidence.
TOM ROLT
SPORTS MENTOR COACH
- Tom is a dedicated youth mentor who supports participants with guidance and life skills. As a leader at Divert, he focuses on steering young people away from crime and toward positive futures.
- His presence at Ballers ensures that support goes beyond football.
JAKE AVERY
COMMUMNITY COACH
- Jake is a new member of the team and is actively supporting local schools and holiday camp programmes.
- He has shown great initiative and enthusiasm, and continues to grow as a coach within the Ballers environment.
MILO EAVES
TRAINEE COACH
- A former participant turned coach, Milo supports delivery across all Ballers Academy programmes.
- Through hard work and dedication, he has progressed through our coaching pathway, earning his qualifications with the support of Ballers. Milo brings energy, reliability, and a strong desire to keep learning—making him a valuable part of the team and an inspiring figure for younger members following in his footsteps.
HARRISON WHITE
APPRENTICE COACH
- Harrison is gaining hands-on experience across multiple programmes at Ballers.
- As he learns from senior coaches, he brings energy and curiosity to every session, developing quickly into a promising coach for the future.
SAFEGUARDING & WELFARE
CHARLIE PEARCE
SAFEGUARDING & WELFARE OFFICER
- Charlie also serves as our designated Safeguarding & Welfare Officer. He ensures all programmes at Ballers are safe, inclusive, and supportive for every participant.
- For questions, concerns, or support, you can reach Charlie at:
charlie@ballersacademy.co.uk