As part of the EFL Week of Action, we’re celebrating the incredible journeys of people who’ve developed and grown through Rotherham United Community Trust, showing how football and education can open doors to exciting futures.
One shining example is Alfie Bakes, whose journey with RUCT began in 2020 and has seen him progress from student, to volunteer, to full-time Sports Tutor.
“My RUCT journey began in 2020 when I decided to join the College programme after leaving school. It turned out to be one of the best decisions I made,” Alfie explained. “After two years studying a BTEC, this led on to me studying the Sports Coaching and Development degree whilst becoming a casual member of staff. I gained valuable experience teaching PE lessons and working evenings at the ETC programme. This eventually led to me getting a full-time job as a Sports Tutor at RUCT after completing my degree.”
Alfie’s connection with Rotherham United started even earlier through the Future Stars programme, where he played for the Rotherham United Futsal team as a teenager.
“Dave Atkinson was my coach, and many years down the line I’ve been lucky enough to work with him. It’s made me really appreciate the high level of coaching I received when I was younger.”
Over five years of studying and working with the Trust, Alfie’s confidence and skills have grown immensely, both on and off the pitch.
“Studying at RUCT helped me shape my development personally and professionally. My confidence has grown massively as I can now comfortably speak in front of large groups of parents and students. My technical and tactical knowledge has also become one of my biggest strengths.”
Now, as a Sports Tutor at Rotherham United Sports College, Alfie is proud to have come full circle.
“It makes me extremely proud. I enjoy sharing my story and experience to help lead others in the right direction and make a positive impact.”
Throughout his journey, Alfie has embraced every opportunity, from volunteering and learning from experienced coaches to representing RUCT abroad.
“The number of opportunities RUCT have gifted me along the way are endless. Football trips to Spain and Italy will stick with me forever, having the chance to play against European opposition and train at top-quality facilities was a brilliant experience.”
Now, Alfie is passionate about inspiring the next generation of young people following in his footsteps.
“What I enjoy most about working with young people is giving them the opportunity to make a difference. I always try to educate them on their next steps through coaching badges, work experience and self-belief. My advice to anyone would be to put yourself out there. The confidence to throw yourself in at the deep end will not go unnoticed at RUCT and it’s worked positively for me.”
Alfie’s story is one of many that showcase how Rotherham United Community Trust creates real pathways for young people, whether through education, sport, volunteering or employment.
If you’re interested in following a similar route and finding out more about the opportunities available at Rotherham United Sports College, join us at our next Open Evening on Tuesday 2nd December 2025.
Book your place here: Rotherham United Sports College Open Evening 02/12/2025 (2) – Fill in form
