Noel Blake
UEFA Pro Licensed Coach
- Date Joined: 19th April 2016
Noel Blake is a vastly experienced coach and manager in the English game having progressed from a 22 year playing career to coaching at both club and international level. He has a proven ability to develop players and build high performing teams while working in line with set development strategies, club objectives and available resources.
A key figure in the FA’s international youth structure for seven years, Noel has worked with some of the brightest young talent in the domestic game. Combined with his strong organisation skills, man management ability, technical background and exceptional work ethic, this experience ensures he can have a positive impact on any football organisation.
A key figure in the FA’s international youth structure for seven years, Noel has worked with some of the brightest young talent in the domestic game. Combined with his strong organisation skills, man management ability, technical background and exceptional work ethic, this experience ensures he can have a positive impact on any football organisation.
Career History
Blackpool FC
Assistant Manager
2014 – 2014
England
U19 Head Coach
2013 – 2014
The Football Association
U18 & U19 Head Coach
2009 – 2013The Football Association
U16, U18 & U19 Assistant Head Coach
2007 – 2009
Stoke City FC
Academy Manager
2004 – 2007Stoke City FC
U16 Academy Coach
2002 – 2004
Notts County FC
First Team Coach
2001 – 2002
Exeter City FC
First Team Manager/Coach
1995 – 2001
Key Achievements
- Reached the final of the 2009 U19 UEFA European Championships against host nation Ukraine as Assistant Head Coach to Brian Eastick.
- Semi-finalists in the 2012 & 2010 U19 UEFA European Championships.
- Qualified for the group stages of the 2009, 2011 & 2013 FIFA U20 World Cup.
- Won the 2011, 2009 & 2008 U16 Montaigu Tournament as well as reaching the final in 2013 & 2010.
- Acted as Caretaker Manager at Blackpool in between first team manager appointments in the Championship.
- Coordinated the entire academy coaching structure and development program at Stoke City, with notable products at this time including Martin Paterson, Adam Rooney, Ádám Vass, Ryan Shotton, Curtis Nelson, Louis Moult and recent graduate Ollie Shenton.
- Implemented a number of key initiatives changes in a short time at Notts County, focusing on improved fitness, diet and sports science awareness to in turn produce improved performances on the pitch.
- Successfully managed Exeter City as a Player/Manager following the departure of Peter Fox, building a team from limited resources and introducing an increasingly professional approach to training, preparation and day to day operations.
