A Suffolk-based footballing coach and former England Youth player is preparing to launch a new sports business for the region.

East Anglian Daily Times: David WattleyDavid Wattley (Image: Archant)

David Wattley, who lives in Ipswich, has been given the rights to a new footballing innovation which has only recently arrived on UK shores.

The new enterprise, called First Touch TOCA Academy, will be launched officially at an event on Monday involving Ipswich Town player Freddie Sears.

TOCA machines were first developed in the United States and work by firing a succession of balls at players at different speeds and angles. They are designed to help players and aspiring athletes improve their skills through repetition.

David, who was signed by QPR FC as an eight-year-old, and was then selected for England’s Under 15’s team, learned of the devices in the summer. He has been granted rights to train teams and individuals with the machines as part of his own East Anglian academy.

“There are so many people who can benefit from TOCA’s innovation – either those who are professional players already and in need of further training for accuracy, or for young children coming through the ranks of junior competition, or those who want to stage a fun party or team-work event,” said David

David’s academy will have its official launch at Stoke High School on Monday January 22. Several footballers and sporting organisations from around the region are set to attend including Freddy Sears.

David added: “I have been overwhelmed by the early interest shown in what TOCA can offer to schools, clubs, groups and companies in the region.”

“I’d love to hear from anyone wishing to have a practice session to find out more about how TOCA works.”

David will be running weekly sessions on Mondays at Stoke High School between 7pm and 9pm throughout January. Contact him on Info@Firsttouchtoca.co.uk