S&S Coaching crest
Players training in a positive learning environment.

About us

Founded by afather and sonwith one mission

High quality football coaching focused on real player development, confidence and enjoyment.

Our story

Bridging the gap in player development

S&S Coaching was founded by father and son team Zack and Dean Stokes with one clear mission, to provide high quality football coaching focused on real player development.

Having experienced football across professional academies, competitive environments and education settings, we recognised that many young players lack consistent individual attention outside of team training. S&S Coaching was created to bridge that gap by offering professional coaching that complements club football while prioritising confidence, enjoyment and long term improvement.

Our sessions are built around creating a positive learning environment where players feel supported, challenged and motivated to improve at their own pace.

We believe development happens when players enjoy training, understand the game and gain confidence in their abilities.

Close control practice during a session.

Our philosophy

What our coaching focuses on

  • Building confident players
  • Developing strong fundamentals
  • Improving decision making under pressure
  • Encouraging creativity and game understanding
  • Creating positive habits and strong work ethic

Every player develops at their own pace

Confidence is as important as ability

Quality coaching drives long term improvement

Football should always remain enjoyable

Meet the coaches

Coaching experience you can trust

Coach Zack Stokes.

Coach Zack Stokes

Zack brings extensive playing experience from elite football environments.

  • 10 years at Burnley FC Academy
  • International academy experience competing in Holland and Germany
  • Played against top academies across England
  • 2 years at Stockport County
  • Competed in high level university football in the United States

His coaching focuses on creating realistic training environments that translate directly into match performance while ensuring players enjoy every session.

Coach Dean Stokes.

Coach Dean Stokes

Dean combines professional playing experience with over two decades of coaching and teaching expertise.

  • Former professional footballer at Port Vale
  • Part of a promotion winning squad from Division Two
  • Competed against top level professionals including Matt Le Tissier
  • UEFA Qualified Coach
  • Over 20 years experience as a Physical Education teacher

His approach prioritises confidence, communication and long term development, ensuring every player feels valued and supported.

Player development

What players gain

  • Improved ball mastery
  • Greater confidence
  • Faster decision making
  • Stronger game understanding
  • Positive mindset and work ethic

Our environment

Where players can

  • Feel confident to try new skills
  • Receive individual attention
  • Learn in a positive atmosphere
  • Develop resilience and self belief
  • Enjoy the process of improving
Training equipment set out on the pitch.

For parents

What parents can expect

  • Professional and organised sessions
  • Clear communication and feedback
  • Safe, inclusive training environments
  • Coaching tailored to each player
  • Development that supports club football

Testimonials

Words from players and parents

Dan Gore preparing to come on from the touchline during a match.
I had the privilege of being coached by Dean when I was younger from u6-u8s at Unsworth. He had a huge impact on my development not only as a player but as a person. His ability to get the best out of each individual player is what set him apart from other coaches. I couldn't thank Dean enough for helping me grow into the player and person I am today and I would highly recommend him to any parent who wanted a coach for their child.
Dan GoreManchester United Star
Match action, a player driving forward with the ball between two opponents.
Dean played a big role in my development, not just improving my game but also building my confidence and understanding of football.
Blerti Jacajex Bury FC and Northwich Victoria FC player
Hi mate August's Dad. Today was great, was nice to see the lads being lead by someone who actually knows the game as well as you do!

August's Dad

Parent

Hi Dean & Zack. Thank you for today Billy loved it. He said he liked learning more about close control and would love to continue the sessions.

Billy's family

Parent

Free introductory session

Start your development journey today

We offer a limited number of free introductory sessions so players and parents can experience our coaching approach first hand.