From cheerleading to Aston Villa: Madi's journey into Elite Football Coaching

When Madi Highfield joined the University of Wolverhampton to study BSc (Hons) Football Coaching and Performance, she already knew she had a passion for coaching. What she didn't know was just how far that passion would take her.

Now graduating with her degree, Madi is working for Aston Villa and has secured a contract with The Football Association to support the England Talent Pathway, achievements she credits in part to the opportunities and connections she developed during her time at the University.

"I was already coaching at grassroots level and knew it was something I really enjoyed," said Madi. "I wanted to explore what career opportunities were available and develop my knowledge and coaching skills further."

A key factor in choosing Wolverhampton was the reputation and experience of the teaching team.

"I knew some of the lecturers beforehand and understood the experience and knowledge they could bring. I felt it would be a really good place to develop myself as a coach and as a person."

Throughout her studies, Madi took advantage of a wide range of practical opportunities, including visits to professional academy environments and exposure to different performance settings.

"One of the biggest things for me was the opportunities we were given. We visited a number of academy settings and got to see real-life coaching environments. Those experiences helped shape my career and opened doors that have led to the roles I'm in today."

Alongside her studies, Madi developed valuable industry connections, which she believes played a significant role in helping her progress within the football sector.

Before joining Aston Villa, she gained experience with both West Bromwich Albion and Birmingham City. Her move to Aston Villa, one of the country's leading women's football academies, came through relationships she had built across the game.

"A big thing in football coaching is the connections you make. Having people who know what you can offer and who are willing to recommend you is incredibly important."

While balancing university work with coaching commitments could be challenging at times, Madi says the support she received from academic staff helped her stay focused and succeed.

"The lecturers were outstanding throughout the course. They were always there if you needed support, advice or guidance. They genuinely wanted to help us achieve our goals and develop our careers."

Reflecting on graduation day, Madi described it as both an emotional and exciting milestone.

"At first I felt a little sad because it meant that chapter was over, but now I realise it's really just the beginning of the next stage. It feels amazing to graduate and look ahead to what's next."

Madi's route into football coaching was not entirely conventional. Before discovering football as a teenager, she was a cheerleader.

"I didn't get into football until I was around 14. I was a cheerleader before that. Then during lockdown I discovered football, started coaching and realised this was what I wanted to do. Looking back now, it's quite a nice moment to reflect on how far things have come."

Surrounded by family and friends at her graduation ceremony, Madi leaves the University of Wolverhampton with a degree, an exciting career pathway and a growing reputation within the game. As she looks ahead to the next chapter, her story demonstrates how passion, opportunity and determination can create a successful career in sport.