Pascal Vaudequin set to be a 'key figure' at Coleraine after being appointed as the club's Head of Academy
Coleraine FC have confirmed the appointment of former Derry City defender Pascal Vaudequin as the new Head of Academy at The Showgrounds.
The Frenchman takes up the position after most recently being employed at Swiss side Neuchatel Xamax, where he held the role of Talent Manager as well as Head Coach positions across the academy.
Vaudequin is also well-known within Irish FA circles after holding down several roles during an 11-year period.
During his time with the association, he was employed as a coach educator and assessor as well as being an Elite Performance Coach and Assistant Manager with Northern Ireland youth team.
In a statement, Coleraine outlined how Vaudequin will be “a key figure as the club looks to progress our academy and the development of homegrown players” and that he will bring “a fresh approach to player development”.
Speaking about Vaudequin’s appointment, Henry Ross, Executive Chairman at Coleraine, said: “Our academy reaching its potential is pivotal to fulfilling our long-term vision.
"It is essential not only to our future sporting success, but also to our role in serving and strengthening the local community.
“Developing young people, on and off the pitch, is one of the most meaningful responsibilities we have as a club.
"I have no doubt that with Pascal’s experience and his qualities as a person, we will see real and meaningful progress in the years ahead.”
Chief Executive Officer, Dale Pryde-MacDonald added: “In the discussions I had with Pascal it is clear to see that he has the passion to make our academy successful.
"He has so much experience in the game and will be a big driver in how we produce our own talent.
“With the right support around him from myself and the club, Pascal can make our academy very strong and help to lay pivotal foundations for the future.”
Vaudequin’s playing career saw him represent several clubs in the League of Ireland, including Derry City, Shelbourne, Finn Harps, Bohemians and Shamrock Rovers.
He previously managed Institute for almost a year before moving into his coaching roles both in Northern Ireland and abroad.