Norwich City Women are delighted to announce Martin Herdman as the club's new head coach.
Martin has wide-ranging links in the game and extensive coaching experience in the UK and internationally.
He began coaching Futsal at the age of 13 for Brazilian soccer schools, then worked his way up to Hartlepool United's Academy, Newcastle United Foundation and Academy, followed by Durham Women and Durham University Women’s team.
Martin was also the lead coach at MLS team Vancouver Whitecaps.
Originally from Consett, County Durham, Martin spent time in national camps with Canada Soccer and New Zealand, with his brother currently residing as the Canada men’s national team head coach.
On joining, he said: "The values of the club match a lot of the values I have, in terms of being people-centric. The staff that I’ve met so far have been brilliant, from Flo (Allen) to Mark (Heazle) and the passion they have for the club is second to none. They put people first.
“I’ve had a great reception and welcome from the players; I’ve been super impressed with their attitude and application and can’t wait to get started tonight against Wroxham.”
General manager for the women’s team, Flo Allen, said: "We are delighted to welcome Martin Herdman as our new head coach.
"Throughout the extensive recruitment process, Martin’s experience and knowledge of the women’s game was evident and his passion to develop home grown players aligns perfectly to our club values.
"We are very excited for Martin to get started on the pitch with the team."
As part of the club’s strategic partnership with the UEA, Martin will also be the football programme lead at the university.
Mark Heazle, head of sport and physical activity at the UEA said: "We’re really excited about Martin’s appointment and about the partnership in general. We see this as a perfect way of bringing players to the university and the club, providing a pathway for talented footballers.
“Martin’s personality absolutely shone when we interviewed him and we think he is a really good fit for our students and we look forward to seeing what he can achieve with them this year.”
The Canaries face Wroxham Women at Trafford Park later today in a pre-season friendly game, with Martin in the dugout for his first game in charge.