Christchurch United has recruited UEFA A-Licence coach and sport psychology expert Blaine McKenna to help develop the football club’s players and coaching staff.
Blaine has worked in football for 12 years after an injury halted his playing career with Grimsby Town and Northern Island School Boys and thus decided to focus on coaching and sport psychology.
Describing himself as a Performance Coach, Blaine possesses a Masters Degree in Psychology which he has used in the 11 countries he has coached in. Blaine’s notable clubs include Ubon United, Arsenal Soccer Schools, and Dunedin Technical where he met our very own Joe Cole.
Blaine expressed his desire to come to New Zealand "Ever since I came to New Zealand for the first time, I knew I always wanted to return. It’s a beautiful country and I thoroughly enjoyed my time with Dunedin Technical".
"Hearing Joe Cole explain Christchurch United’s vision convinced me to leave Cambodia and head for the amazing Christchurch Football Centre facilities. I also read articles from Slava Meyn regarding his project and this was something which I was keen to join".
Blaine has developed a mindset program for an array of sport codes and Michiel Buursma has expressed his desire to implement this into the Christchurch United Academy program.
Michiel states "Blaine has lots of experience coaching in different countries and cultures, and his background in sport psychology will be a great addition to our club. His experience and expertise will give us a unique opportunity to learn as coaches and players.".
Christchurch United warmly welcome Blaine to the club!
