Steven Barker

Girl's Academy Director

Full Name:
Steve Barker

Coaching License(s) & Certification(s):
UEFA B License, 2020
USSF B License Candidate

Coaching experience by year, club, and role:
2012–2015: Stevenage FC Academy Coach & Performance Analyst
2016–2017: Hull City Academy Performance Analyst Intern
2017–2022: Stevenage FC Academy Head of Performance Analysis & Academy Coach
2022–2025: HTX Youth Academy Director of Coaching & Head Coach
2025–Present: Oakwood Girls Academy Director & Head Coach

Notable achievements, records, or championships:
Players coached have progressed to play professionally in the Championship, League One, League Two, and internationally at U21 level in England.

Coaching Philosophy:
Player-centered coaching: coaching the individual within the team, providing frameworks and guidelines for individuals to find solutions in all four game moments — in possession, out of possession, and both transitions — while having the confidence, courage, and technical qualities to execute. Every action, positive or negative, is a learning moment. I have been obsessed with football ever since I can remember. After breaking my ankle badly at 15 and requiring surgery, I spent time watching games to learn tactically rather than just for enjoyment. From then, at 16, I obtained my first coaching qualification and began coaching U7s at the team I played for. Giving back to young athletes, inspiring them, imparting knowledge, and fostering their love and growth of the game is my biggest drive and passion.

What message would you like to share with current and prospective Oakwood families?
This is an amazing club, with incredible infrastructure and a rich history of individual player and team successes across collegiate and professional pathways. With staff who care deeply about individuals’ on- and off-field success, the club strives daily to make sure that success continues for the players in our care for many years to come.