Launchpad-Asia provides a structured, ethical, and well-supported pathway for UK sports graduates who want to begin their professional careers abroad.
Whether you hold a BSc, MSc, UEFA C, UEFA B, or have experience coaching in grassroots or academy environments, this pathway helps you take the next step into a long-term coaching role across Asia.

Many graduates have the passion and qualifications but lack access to reliable international opportunities. Launchpad Asia bridges that gap by preparing you, supporting you, and connecting you with trusted employers across the region.

Who This Pathway Is For

Launchpad Asia is designed for:

• Undergraduate and postgraduate students in football coaching, sport science, sport psychology or sports development

• Coaches who hold UEFA C or UEFA B Licences (or equivalent)

• Graduates with experience in UK youth, school, academy, or community football (At least 3 years experience)

• Individuals seeking full-season international coaching roles (Aug–Jul)

• Motivated, adaptable young professionals who want to grow personally and professionally

• Coaches with a desire to explore new cultures and contribute to football development in Asia

If you're committed, curious, or enthusiastic about international coaching, this pathway is built for you.

What You Will Gain

Launchpad Asia prepares you far beyond the technical aspects of coaching.
You gain:

✔ A Direct Route to Employment

Access to pre-screened, reputable Asian football clubs, academies, and schools seeking qualified foreign coaches.

✔ Visa & Contract Guidance

Clear explanations of visa pathways, required documents, contract types, and what to expect during the application process.

✔ Cultural & Professional Preparation

Workshops and training covering:

• Asian cultural norms

• Local communication styles

• Expectations in football and school environments

• Behaviour management

• Parental communication

• Working with translators or bilingual staff

✔ Safeguarding & Welfare Support

You’ll receive guidance on:

• Local safeguarding expectations

• Living arrangements

• Travel planning

• Insurance

• Pastoral challenges and wellbeing

• Staying connected with support networks

✔ Coaching Development

• Adapting UK/UEFA methodologies to Asian environments

• Planning sessions for larger group sizes

• Classroom-style delivery in school programmes

• Designing development programmes that meet employer needs

✔ Mentoring Throughout Your First Year Abroad

Experienced coaches provide check-ins, reflection tasks, and support as you settle into your new coaching role.

Typical Coaching Roles Through the Pathway

Positions vary by club or school, but graduates commonly access roles such as:

• Youth Academy Coach (U7–U14)

  Delivering technical and tactical sessions, assisting with match days, and supporting player development plans.

• Football Coach in International or Bilingual Schools

  Leading after-school programmes, PE-based football sessions, or enrichment activities.

• Community & Development Coach

  Working in grassroots or private academies focused on participation, growth, and talent identification.

All roles include clear expectations, ongoing support, and alignment with the pathway's August–July or January–July contract cycles.

The Journey: Step-by-Step

Step 1 — Apply & Interview (January–March)

Submit your application and attend an interview to assess your coaching profile, aspirations, and readiness.

Step 2 — Preparation Phase (April–June)

You will complete a structured programme covering:

• Safeguarding & welfare

• Cultural competence

• Session adaptation

• Working with young people abroad

• Visa documentation and travel planning

Step 3 — Deployment (August or January)

Once your visa is approved, you will travel to your host club or school and begin your coaching role.

Step 4 — Ongoing Support & Reflection (Throughout the Year)

Regular check-ins, online mentoring meetings, reflective practice assignments, and optional CPD opportunities help guide your development.

6. Skills & Qualities We Look For

You don’t need years of experience or elite coaching qualifications, but successful candidates share certain qualities:

• Positive attitude and willingness to learn

• Respect for different cultures and ways of working

• Ability to build relationships with children, parents, and colleagues

• Confidence to deliver sessions independently

• Strong communication skills

• Good planning, organisation, and adaptability

International coaching is rewarding but challenging. We're looking for coaches who want to grow both personally and professionally.

Expected Qualifications & Requirements

While every employer varies, most roles require:

• A degree in a sport-related field (or pending graduation)

• A minimum of FA/UEFA C Licence (UEFA B desirable)

• Valid Enhanced DBS or equivalent safeguarding clearance

• Experience coaching children or youth

• Willingness to commit to a full annual contract

• Clean background and eligibility for visa processing

You will be guided through all steps of the eligibility process.

Where You Could Work

Partner organisations are located across East and Southeast Asia, including:

• China

• Japan

• South Korea

• Thailand

• Vietnam

• Singapore

Each region offers distinct cultural and footballing experiences, and all are

seeking enthusiastic, well-prepared British-educated coaches.

Support After You Arrive

Launchpad Asia doesn't stop once you're overseas.

Coaches receive:

• Regular welfare check-ins

• A dedicated contact for support

• Opportunities for collaborative reflection

• Access to other pathway coaches abroad

• Guidance if challenges arise (cultural, professional, or personal)

You're not left on your own — support continues throughout your contract.

Join the Launchpad Asia Talent Pool

If you’re interested in coaching abroad in 2026 or beyond, joining the talent pool is the first step.

What We Need From You:

• Name

• University & degree

• Graduation year

• Coaching qualifications

• Summary of coaching experience

• Preferred region(s)

• Earliest available start date

• A short statement on why you want to coach in Asia

Once submitted, you’ll be contacted when the interviews and preparation phases begin.

Start Your Coaching Journey Today

Launchpad-Asia gives you the chance to experience football in vibrant, diverse environments while developing professionally, culturally, and personally.

Your journey begins here — apply to the pathway and launch your international coaching career.

For Graduates

Turn Your Degree Into an International Coaching Career