Meet The Team
23 Academy is run by a team of experienced coaches who have played the game at a professional level. With multiple coaches working together, we provide a safe, structured, and supportive environment where every child can learn, improve, and enjoy their football journey.
KYLE BENNETT
Head Coach & Founder of 23 Academy
A former professional footballer with over 400 appearances, Kyle brings elite-level experience to 23 Academy. Passionate about player development, he focuses on improving individuals across the four-corner model of the game—technical/tactical, physical, psychological, and social. His goal is to inspire and mentor the next generation.
JAKE JERVIS
Coach / Finishing Lead Coach
Jake is a former professional footballer with over 350 professional appearances he boasts a wealth of clubs including Birmingham City, Luton Town, Plymouth Argyle, Portsmouth and Preston North End. A natural striker, his sharp eye for goal and deep understanding of attacking play allow him to help players refine their movement, positioning, and finishing techniques.
His calm and composed coaching style ensures players feel comfortable while pushing themselves to improve. Since joining 23 Academy in November 2023, Jake has successfully led the Finishing Factory, helping countless players sharpen their goal-scoring ability and attacking instincts
Sessions coached include 23 Weekly session, 1:1 's, 1:2's, Fininshing Factory, Summer Camps and Half-Term Camps and Workshops.
ELLIOT BENNETT
Elliott Bennett is an experienced professional footballer whose career has seen him play over 500 games across the English leagues. He rose to prominence at Brighton & Hove Albion, helped Norwich City reach the Premier League, and later became a key figure at Blackburn Rovers before returning to Shrewsbury Town, where he began his journey.
Alongside his playing career, Elliott is the founder of his own academy and a passionate coach, dedicated to guiding the next generation of players on and off the pitch.
CARTER LYCETT
Coach
Carter brings extensive coaching experience and a keen eye for detail. A dedicated and enthusiastic coach, he simplifies instructions effectively, ensuring players understand and apply key concepts with confidence. Since joining 23 Academy at its inception in August 2022, he has played a vital role in player development.
Alongside coaching, Carter competes at a semi-professional level for Bromsgrove Sporting, with previous spells at Hednesford Town and Walsall Wood. His experience in the game provides valuable insight for young players looking to take their skills to the next level.
ZAC HARTLEY
Zac's been with us since November 2022 - almost from the very start. He's coached it all: fitness club, 1:1 & 1:2 sessions, small groups, large groups, our 23 weekly sessions and performance camps/workshops.
An excellet coach with years of experience. Zac is all about the fine details and making sure players are as fit as possible - because fitness drives your technical performance.
MUNJI
Coach
Munji is an ambitious young football coach making his mark in the game. With a sharp eye for detail and a modern approach to player development, he’s quickly earning a reputation as one to watch for the future. Dedicated, innovative, and passionate about the sport, Munji brings fresh energy to every session and is committed to helping players reach their full potential.
