David Mayer wants to “shape young lives” in his new role as 7 Elite Academy's Global Head of Foundation.

Mayer took up the role this month and will oversee all 7EA Foundation Age soccer programmes for players in the under-9 to under-12 age brackets.

He has completed multiple English FA Youth Modules and worked with a number of leading youth coaches.

That experience in working with some of the sport's top young players, including those within the Manchester City Football Schools system, is set to help expand 7EA’s curriculum across the world.

He said: “First off, I’d like to thank Anthony Godfrey, Wayne Scholes, and everybody else at 7 Elite Academy for providing me with this opportunity.

“I’ve been very fortunate to have grown up and spent my life around some of the best development coaches in the world, and these experiences have certainly enabled me to be where I am today.

“My playing career was cut short because of injury, but it meant I could start my coaching career earlier, which has proved to be a blessing in many ways.”

Mayer, who holds a UEFA B Licence and is currently working on his UEFA A Licence, played in the U.S and the Premier League youth system. 

He was also an assistant coach for National Champions Pfeiffer University in the United States.

He added: “I’m in a position where I can use the knowledge and experiences I have gathered to help create better soccer players, but more importantly, to help develop better people.

“The strong support team I have around me means I am constantly able to find ways to improve myself and increase my knowledge, which in turn will continue to help the Foundation Phase at 7 Elite Academy move forward.

“I’m excited to get started, and help to shape young lives.”