LEADERSHIP TEAM
JAMIE MEHMET
Founder & Director
Jamie brings over 25 years of experience in coaching, talent development and player progression. As one of only 150 recipients of the prestigious FA150 Award, he’s been recognised nationally for his service to grassroots football. Under his leadership, Ballers Academy has grown from a local project into a thriving academy serving over 1,000 families weekly across South London.
RICHARD WHITE
Community Director
With over 24 years of experience in community sports programmes, Richard leads Ballers’ inclusive initiatives including girls-only football, disability multi-sports, and walking sports. His work is rooted in making sport accessible to everyone, regardless of age, ability, or background, ensuring Ballers remains open and welcoming to all.
ARCHIE MEHMET
Player Liaison Officer & Director
A former Ballers participant, Archie progressed through professional academies and now mentors the next generation. His lived experience provides genuine insight, helping young players stay focused and achieve their goals on and off the pitch.
BILLY MEHMET
Development Manager
Billy is a professional footballer with international experience across the UK, Europe, Asia, and Australia. At Ballers, he arranges guest coaching, fixtures, and overseas tours, providing players with valuable exposure to professional environments and growth opportunities.
ACADEMY COCHES
JACK SAMMOUTIS
Academy Coach
Jack is a former professional footballer who played for Millwall FC, AC Omonia, and represented Cyprus internationally. His passion for coaching and elite playing experience allow him to mentor players of all abilities with insight and care.
DEAN PALMER
Academy Coach
Dean is a UEFA A-licensed coach and Head of Coaching at Leyton Orient Academy. He supports player development at Ballers through structured sessions and creates professional pathways using his industry knowledge.
CRAIG DUNDAS
Academy Coach
Craig, a UEFA B-qualified coach, has made over 600 senior appearances and worked as Sutton United’s first-team fitness coach. He brings valuable experience to players preparing for senior football.
CHARLIE PEARCE
Academy Coach & Safeguarding Lead
Charlie is a UEFA B-licensed coach who has been a core part of Ballers for over 13 years. He leads youth and adult disability programmes, and as Safeguarding & Welfare Officer, ensures a safe, inclusive environment for all participants.
DARREN SMITH
Academy Coach
Darren is a UEFA A-licensed coach and Associate Dean at UCFB. He supports Ballers’ player and coach development while contributing to the wider football community through The Coaching Exchange.
CHAN QUAN
Academy Coach
With over 15 years of experience, Chan supports children with behavioural needs and builds strong, trusting relationships. His non-league background and inclusive coaching approach benefit all participants.
NICHOLAS WRIGHT
Academy Coach
Nicholas is a UEFA B-qualified coach and Head of Operations at the Amateur FA. He brings academy-level experience from AFC Wimbledon and helps Ballers balance excellence with inclusivity.
JORDEN WILSON
Academy Coach
Jorden is a high-energy coach whose positive approach makes him a favourite among players. He leads sessions across our girls’ football, grassroots, and schools programmes.
TOM BEERE
Academy Coach
A former AFC Wimbledon midfielder, Tom leads sessions through our academy and inclusion programmes. His calm leadership style and football intelligence help develop young players on and off the pitch.
VICTOR BORODE
Academy Coach
Victor is a UEFA B-qualified coach with over 15 years of experience coaching in the UK, Nigeria and China. His global perspective supports players across all stages of development.
DYLAN TONERY
Academy Coach
Dylan came through Ballers as a participant and has grown into a committed coach through our development pathway. He now supports young players with energy and purpose.
JEROME JOHN
Academy Coach
Jerome is a UEFA A Licensed Goalkeeping Coach with experience at West Ham United and Wycombe Wanderers. He leads Ballers’ goalkeeper programme, developing talent at both academy and senior levels.
AARON HARRINGTON
Academy Coach
Aaron is a UEFA A-licensed coach with experience at Millwall, Leyton Orient, and Oldham Athletic, as well as coaching abroad in Lithuania. His high standards and international outlook enrich player development.
ANGIE RUIZ GIRALDO
Sports Mentor Coach
Angie rose through Ballers as a participant and now mentors others through our girls’ programme. With her lived experience and qualifications, she supports young players in building confidence and skill.
CLAIRE DE HARA
Community Coach
Claire has worked with Crystal Palace’s community programmes and has extensive experience supporting children with special educational needs. She creates safe spaces where every child can grow.
TOM ROLT
Tom is a youth mentor focused on life skills and positive development. At Ballers and through Divert, he supports participants in making constructive choices beyond football.
JAKE AVERY
Community Coach
Jake is a developing coach who supports local schools and holiday camps with energy and enthusiasm. He’s quickly becoming a valuable member of the Ballers team.
MILO EAVES
Trainee Coach
Milo progressed from participant to trainee coach through Ballers’ coaching pathway. With dedication and curiosity, he now helps deliver sessions across our programmes while gaining experience and qualifications.
HARRISON WHITE
Apprentice Coach
Harrison is gaining hands-on experience across Ballers’ sessions while learning from senior coaches. His energy and commitment make him a promising young coach in the making.
SAFEGUARDING & WELFARE
CHARLIE PEARCE
Safeguarding & Welfare Officer
Charlie also serves as Ballers’ Safeguarding & Welfare Officer. He ensures that all programmes are safe, inclusive, and supportive for every participant, and is available to address any concerns. charlie@ballersacademy.co.uk