A New Chapter for Rochdale AFC Sports College

Rochdale AFC Community Trust are delighted to announce the appointment of Ian Foran as the new Head Coach of Rochdale AFC Sports College, following the departure of Jack Kerans, who has accepted a full-time teaching role within a local school.

As Jack embarks on an exciting new chapter in his career by taking up a teaching role within a local school, he will be stepping back from his full-time position as Head Coach of the Rochdale AFC Sports College.

However, we’re delighted that Jack will remain a valued member of the Rochdale AFC Community Trust team. Alongside his teaching commitments, he will continue to support the Trust in a part-time capacity, leading a number of community programmes and football teams, ensuring his knowledge, passion and experience continue to benefit our participants and learners.

Jack has made a significant contribution to the Sports College, helping to develop young people both on and off the pitch while creating clear pathways into education, coaching and employment. We look forward to continuing to work with him as he begins this exciting new chapter in his career.

We would like to place on record our sincere thanks to Jack for his dedication and commitment during his time with the Sports College. Over the past year, Jack has played an important role in developing our learners both on and off the pitch, strengthening links with Rochdale AFC’s player pathway and helping create a positive environment where young people could thrive. We wish him every success as he begins the next chapter of his career in education.

Taking over the role is Ian Foran, who brings a wealth of coaching experience and a genuine passion for developing young people through football.

The Rochdale AFC Sports College, based at Heywood Sports Village, has been providing full-time education and football opportunities for over 10 years and continues to offer a unique environment where learners can combine their studies with high-quality coaching and real industry experience.

Deputy Community Director, Scott Webster, said:

“We’re delighted to welcome Ian into the role of Head Coach. Ian shares our vision of developing young people both as footballers and as individuals. At Rochdale AFC Community Trust, we don’t just focus on qualifications; we focus on creating opportunities, building confidence, and providing clear pathways into employment, higher education, and the wider sports industry. Ian’s experience and enthusiasm make him the ideal person to lead this generation of learners.”

Ian is excited to begin working with both our returning learners and those joining us this September, as preparations begin for another exciting CEFA league campaign.

Speaking about his appointment, Ian said:

“I’m really looking forward to joining Rochdale AFC Community Trust and leading the Sports College programme. It’s a fantastic opportunity to work with ambitious young players and help them develop both on and off the pitch. I’m excited to build on the excellent work that’s already been done and create an environment where learners can enjoy their football, achieve their qualifications and prepare for careers within the game.”

The Sports College continues to pride itself on offering much more than football. Learners gain recognised qualifications while benefiting from work experience, coaching opportunities, and links into employment across Rochdale AFC Community Trust. Recent former students have progressed into paid coaching roles within the Trust, highlighting the genuine pathways available after completing the programme.

Pre-season preparations are already underway, with Ian looking forward to welcoming the returning learners as they begin preparations for the 2026/27 season.