Bradford City AFC is pleased to confirm that Luke Hendrie (pictured right) has returned to the club as lead youth development phase (YDP) coach, while Jack Fairbrother (pictured left) has been promoted to foundation phase lead coach.
Hendrie is a familiar face to Bantams supporters, having made 40 appearances in claret and amber during his playing days at the University of Bradford Stadium. In recent years, he has combined playing with coaching in City’s academy and now steps into a full-time role.
Holding a UEFA A License, Hendrie brings both experience and expertise to the academy setup.
He said:
“I am delighted to step into the role of lead YDP coach. This is an exciting new chapter for me both professionally and personally. Bradford City means a great deal to me, and I am determined to make a success of this position.
“The YDP years are crucial for developing the technical and life skills young players need. Our focus is on creating a positive environment, prioritising individual development, and opening clear pathways toward professional football.
“As someone who joined the academy at 12, I know the journey these players are on and believe my own experiences can help them. We have some very talented youngsters here, and I look forward to supporting them to fulfil their potential.”
Fairbrother, who previously worked with the under-9s and in the club’s development centres, will now lead the foundation phase, overseeing the under-9s to under-12s age groups.
He said:
“This is a role I have aspired to since I began coaching, particularly since joining the academy and learning from previous foundation phase leads.
“My responsibility is to give foundation phase players the best possible experience while preparing them to transition into the YDP. We want to build strong cultural foundations, focus on individual skills like 1v1s, and, above all, help them develop a love for the game through our passion and enthusiasm.”
Head of academy Tom Calvert added:
“We are delighted to see both Luke and Jack step into full-time coaching positions. Jack’s journey from development centres to the academy highlights the pathways available within the club, and his strong grasp of our coaching curriculum and culture made him the ideal candidate.
“Luke’s background as a player, combined with his coaching development and recent UEFA A License achievement, shows his dedication and ambition.
“This is another great example of internal progression within the academy, and we look forward to seeing the impact Luke and Jack will make in their new roles.”
