Football coach on ball with young

Photo: Vincent Brown

DEDICATED . . . Peter Radcliffe and the young shot-stoppers at his goalkeeping school

Peter Radcliffe is so dedicated to coaching children football that he was delighted when a new job freed up time to take more sessions.

His devotion has led to the goalkeeping coach being nominated for a Pride in Oldham award.

Mr Radcliffe, who lives in Shaw, used to work as a long-distance lorry driver, leaving him little spare time to teach youngsters the skills needed for playing between the posts.

But he now drives a HGV for Oldham Council’s recycling team in the day and spends most evenings and weekends coaching and encouraging youngsters at football matches.

The father-of-three’s children and wife, Nichole, all play football.

He coaches at Heyside Under-8s and Under-11s, helps out with training at Rushcroft School, and has started his own team, Crompton Villa Under-12s, where he is chairman.

He also runs a goalkeeping school, PRC Goalkeepers, where he trains boys and girls aged from five to 16.

Mr Radcliffe said: “I’m really pleased to be nominated. It’s like people have noticed what you have done for their children. It’s a nice feeling. It gives the children something to do and if they make it then that’s great. If they get something from it then we have done our job.”

He is currently in negotiations with Burnley Football Club that could see the Clarets provide equipment, the opportunity to train with their coaches and even match tickets. Talented youngsters could even end up on the books of the Championship club.

Peter was nominated by Mike Gartside, who said: “He’s coached my lad, Jack, for the past couple of years to the level where he has been signed by Oldham Athletic as their goalkeeper for the under-9s.

“Peter spends most evenings and weekends coaching children to play and enjoy football.

“He’s very busy. All the training is always fun and the children gain immensely from all his efforts.

“He does a lot in the community for the children and he’s a nice, thoughtful, friendly guy.”

For more information on Peter’s coaching school, log on to www.prcgoalkeepers.co.uk  


To nominate someone for a Pride in Oldham award, tell us:

The name of the person or group nominated

A contact number for them, if known

Their job title and place of work, if relevant

Your reason for the nomination

Your name

Your contact number

Send your info by email to editorial@oldham-chronicle.co.uk , marked “Pride in Oldham Awards, 2008




Pride in Oldham is supported by:
Innovative Technology

J W Lees Brewery

Molnlycke Health Care

Northern Counties Housing Association

Oldham Council

University Centre Oldham

Warburtons