As part of the EFL Week of Action, Rotherham United Community Trust is celebrating the people who help make a difference in our community, from those starting their coaching journey to experienced professionals giving back to the game.
One of those individuals is Jamie Yates, a former Rotherham United player who returned to the club in 2020 to lead on football development for over 16’s at RUCT. His story shows how passion, perseverance and community can come together to build meaningful careers in the game.
“I was fortunate enough to sign my first professional contract at 18,” Jamie explained. “That led to my debut away at Brentford in League One while I was still a youth team player. We managed to win that day and that was the beginning of my professional journey.”
After a successful few years in professional football, Jamie moved into non-league, playing for clubs including Boston United, Gainsborough Trinity and North Ferriby United. It was there that his passion for coaching first began to grow.
“At North Ferriby, I started my coaching journey. I realised I had a huge passion for the game and decided to take my coaching badges. From there I became head coach of Matlock Town’s academy while still playing non-league football and later joined Sheffield FC as both player and coach.”
Yates joined Rotherham United Community Trust in 2020, taking on a full-time role leading football development for the Rotherham United Sports College, a move that gave him a new platform to make an impact on and off the pitch.
“Community football provides full-time roles for coaches who are trying to work their way up the ladder. When I was offered the opportunity to come back to Rotherham United, I jumped at the chance.”
Over his four years with RUCT, Jamie played a key role in shaping programmes that support players of all abilities, helping them develop both as athletes and as people.
“Working with players of different ability levels has been so rewarding. The first thing I tried to implement was a hard-working, enjoyable environment where players could come in, improve and aim for the next level. Seeing players go into non-league football and create a pathway for themselves has given me the most joy as a coach.”
His time with RUCT also helped him grow personally and professionally, strengthening his leadership and mentoring skills.
“My man management skills have been tested the most. When you work with people from different backgrounds, the hardest thing is to pull everyone together and create the right environment. Fortunately, I’ve worked with fantastic people in our education department who share the same goals, to give our students not just an education or football pathway, but life skills as well.”
Yates now takes on a new chapter with Rotherham United Academy, leading on the Youth Development Phase and continuing to support the next generation of Millers.
“This is a role I’m really excited to be starting. I’ve tried to mirror the academy environment throughout my time at RUCT, from training sessions to matchday preparation. My new role is about continuing that standard and helping each academy player take the next step in their football journey.”
Reflecting on his time at RUCT, Jamie is proud of what he has achieved and the opportunities that community football provides for aspiring coaches and volunteers.
“I’m grateful for the chance to work with the Trust and meet so many great people. My journey shows how much you can learn and grow when you get involved.”
At Rotherham United Community Trust, volunteers and aspiring coaches play a huge part in helping us make a difference. Whether you’re looking to gain experience, develop new skills, or take your first steps in coaching, volunteering with RUCT can open doors to new opportunities, just like it did for Jamie.
Find out more and apply to volunteer with us today: ruct.co.uk/vacancy/volunteer
