The Academy is run and founded by Jim Petruzzi. Jim trained at the highly respected Australian Institute of Sport and developed as a player in the same teams as Harry Kewell, Paul Okon and Christian Vieri. As one of the best right backs in the league, Jim was tipped for national honours for his native Australia until injury cut his career short.
Undeterred, he embarked on a career in training, winning numerous top class players at both national and international level as his students. He has worked with players from several UK Premiership teams including West Ham, QPR and Crystal Palace, along with many international teams and players. Jim has also worked at the infamous Bobby Charlton Academy where players such as David Beckham were spotted.
Jim spent a number of years in Italy, Romania and America as a fitness coach before opening his own UK Academy, He has also worked as a fitness coach in several other sports, including Olympic athletics.
His extensive credentials include qualifications from the UK’s leading sports university, Loughborough and The American College of Sports Medicine.
Jim with Man Utd Striker Ole Gunner Solksjaer
A qualified UEFA coach, he is considered to be one of the world’s best trainers and receives extensive media coverage for his achievements. Author of bestselling, Only a Game, Jim is regularly approached by leading magazines and newspapers to provide comment on football and fitness features.
