Matt Beckingham
Hi, I’m Matt Beckingham!
With over 20 years of experience in sports coaching and football development, I have built a reputation for developing players, innovative programmes and pathways that make a lasting difference both on and off the pitch.
I hold a UEFA B Licence alongside the FA Youth Modules 1 & 2, the FA Futsal Level 1, the FA Talent Identification Award, Multi-Skills Level 2, Dodgeball Level 2 and several other sport coaching qualifications. My coaching journey began with Southampton Football Club, where I worked across their Community Programme, Girls’ Centre of Excellence, and Advanced Coaching Centres. I also supported the club’s women’s teams as Reserve Team Coach and 1st Team Assistant Manager, while later taking on administrative and community coaching roles.
Alongside my coaching, I have also worked as a scout for Fulham, AFC Bournemouth and Reading, and as both a scout and coach for Portsmouth Academy. Across my career, I have helped identify and nurture talent, with over 20 boys and girls signing at professional academies including AFC Bournemouth, Portsmouth, Reading and Swindon Town.
In April 2006, I founded Learning Through Sport, which has since delivered a wide variety of school and community programmes. These include:
- Breakfast, lunchtime and after-school clubs
- PPA cover in PE and curriculum support for schools
- Alternative Provision
- CPD training for teachers and coaches
- Young leader training and support
From the very beginning, Learning Through Sport has been a family effort. My sister Sarah played a huge role in the early coaching and administration of the business, helping to establish many of the systems and procedures still used today. My dad, Martin, has been the business manager from day one, working tirelessly behind the scenes on finances and contracts while still pulling on his coaching kit when needed. Special mention must also go to Sam Ivory, my best friend from school, who has been part of the business setup from day one and remains just as important today as he was at the beginning.
Equally, the incredible role of Matt’s wife, Rhia, cannot be overstated. She plays a crucial part across all three organisations – Learning Through Sport, Sport In The Community 2020 CIC and Playground Football. Far from being a “dogsbody,” Rhia is central to the planning, organisation and delivery of so much of what the team achieves.
Over the years, Learning Through Sport has grown into a respected and trusted provider of sport, PE and coach education.
In 2020, I co-founded Sport In The Community 2020 CIC, a not-for-profit organisation delivering inclusive programmes for children, young people, the elderly, disabled individuals and low-income families. The CIC works in partnership with several large Care Home Chains, Abri Homes, Be Active Hampshire, NHS Social Prescribers, Pre Schools, Hays Travel Foundation, Hampshire FA, The FA, School Games Organisers, school SENCOs and local Parish Councils, ensuring that sport is accessible to all.
Continuing to innovate, in 2024, I launched Playground Football, an umbrella for creative and engaging football projects. This includes 3v3 Inflatable Pitch events, 1v1 tournaments, Reading FC Talent ID events and Futsal provision, all designed to create exciting opportunities for young players while supporting their long-term development.
I credit two huge influences on my coaching journey: the legendary Sue Lopez, who gave me my very first coaching role and countless opportunities to grow, and Mick Critchell, a gentleman and genius who continues to mentor and inspire me to this day.
Away from work, I love spending time with my wife Rhia and our two beautiful children, who give me the motivation to give my absolute best every single day. As a family of passionate Liverpool fans, we love nothing more than football weekends and holidays down in the West Country. Looking ahead, 2026 marks a huge milestone – 20 years of Learning Through Sport. Reflecting on the journey, I’m immensely proud of the players, staff, and partners who have been part of the story so far, and grateful for the chance to continue inspiring the next generation.