West Ham United are delighted to announce the appointment of Stephen Opoka to the position of Women’s Academy Manager.
Opoka has been a coach at West Ham United since 2017 and has worked extensively throughout the age groups in the Women’s Academy, as well as supporting the Women’s First Team on numerous occasions.
A former Colchester United youngster who received a call up to the Ugandan National Team at the age of 18, Opoka's professional career was unfortunately cut short due to a serious knee injury.
The setback subsequently opened the door to coaching when Opoka started up his own coaching company, before moving on to the University of East London, where he was the Head Coach of the Women’s First Team.
The 33-year-old – who was previously the Assistant Manager of the U21s - is now relishing the opportunity to take on the lead role within the Women’s Academy.
“I’m delighted to have been given this opportunity and to make the step up as Academy Manager," Opoka told whufc.com.
“I’ve come a long way since I started working at the Club five years ago. It feels quite surreal to be moving into this position.
“I’m particularly looking forward to overseeing such an important area of the Club. It’s a real honour.
"Our vision within the Academy has always been to recruit the best local talent and then to develop players that can one day go on to play in the First Team and on the international stage."
The hard work has already begun for Opoka in his new role, with the U21s enjoying a highly successful start to the 2022/23 season.
“This summer, we have been able to recruit some talented young players into our ranks," he continued.
"Our U21s have won their first two matches of the season - something that has never been done before at West Ham. I’m excited for us to continue this upward trajectory and to see what the future holds for our young Hammers."
Everyone at West Ham United would like to wish Stephen every success in his new role.
The Women's team are back in action this weekend, when they welcome Manchester United to the Chigwell Construction Stadium in the Barclays WSL. Tickets are on sale now priced from just £13 for Adults and £5 for Juniors!
