Testimonials
We have had the privilege to work with a lot of high calibre clients over the years. Here is what some of them have to say about their experience with us.
Jamie Redknapp
Ex-Liverpool & Tottenham Player
"I love the work that Jack does at The Academy Player. The work he does with my son Beau is great, so I try to get him in the lab as much as I can. I wish I had access to training like this when I was a player, as I can see all the benefits of the work with Jack."
Max Kilman
West Ham Player
"I have really enjoyed doing pre-season at The Academy Player over the years. It really helps me come back strong and sharp to every pre-season."
Isaac Ogundere
AFC Wimbledon Player
"Jack gave me under-18 experience at 15-years-old at Hayes & Reading, which developed me so much as a player and as a person. I got scouted by AFC Wimbledon, and signed a two year scholar, and professional contracts since. I closely work with Jack on my footwork and position-specifics. Jack has been a good mentor to help me achieve my dream of becoming a professional footballer."
Nikolai Degtiarev
Birmingham City Under 18 Player
"When Nikolai joined TAP at U16, stepping into U18 football with Uxbridge FC, it was a huge challenge. From the start, every player bought into Jack and the coaches’ vision - instilling discipline, structure, belief, and character beyond the game. Jack pushed the boys to truly compete, and for Nikolai, it reignited confidence after coming close in Cat 1 trials. I will never forget Jack said, “He’ll be signed by the end of the season.” By Christmas, Nikolai had his scholarship at Birmingham."
Cameron Stones
Wycombe Wanderers Under 18 Player
"My time at The Academy Player shaped not just my football journey, but my life. I joined lost, hurt by rejection and doubt, but Jack, Darrell, and Mark reignited my drive to improve. From my very first session, I realised TAP was on another level - the intensity, attention to detail, and philosophy of hard work set it apart. With the lab as a unique tool, TAP prepares players technically and mentally. My advice: get down for a session - you’ll see huge growth on and off the pitch."
Chris Cohalan
Brentford Under 18 Player
"My experience with TAP FC was vital in shaping me as both a player and a person. Starting at U14 in the lab, Jack focused on preparation before the pass, execution, and scanning - skills I drilled for hours that transformed my game. But just as important were the experiences we shared as a team: winning the Harrow Youth League, reaching the national semi-finals, and seeing 8 teammates signed to academies in one season. That pathway reflects Jack’s expertise, and I’m hugely grateful for his role in my journey."
Samuel Tabares
Southampton Player
"I was introduced to Jack a year ago by a good friend. I am so grateful to have had the opportunity to improve technically and tactically from Jack's sessions. My passing is smoother and crisper and I am much more comfortable on the ball. The sessions are always hard but very enjoyable."
Jack Jones
Crystal Palace Under 13 Player
"Without doubt, TAP has accelerated Jack’s ball mastery and game management. The lab, coupled with Jack Gostelow’s unique coaching, centres on enhancing football technique and awareness. This is primarily through repetition, simulating real-life game situations, but also through hard graft. For anyone wanting to become a better footballer, I would not hesitate to recommend TAP.”
Reggie de Castro
Watford Under 11 Player
"My son Reggie began working with Jack and The Academy Player at 7, and four years later their bond is like brothers. Reggie loves the lab sessions and holiday camps, which have helped him grow into a confident young footballer and person. Jack is an outstanding coach - knowledgeable, motivating, and detailed - with a clear ability to improve players. His passion inspires them to reach their full potential. More than just a coach, he’s a top person who genuinely wants every player to succeed."
Jack McCarthy
QPR Under 14 Player
"My son (Jack) has been training with The Academy Player since age 6, and the improvement in his footwork, touch, and scanning was immediate, helping him earn a Cat 2 academy place. He continues to work frequently with Jack, and the weekly sessions keep developing his game. I now bring my younger son too, and he’s seeing the same progress. Both boys love the training and have built a strong relationship with Jack Gostelow, supported by excellent year-round facilities that set TAP apart."
