Roch Valley Radio presenter Ian Foran appointed Rochdale AFC Sports College head coach

Roch Valley Radio presenter Ian Foran has been appointed the new head coach of Rochdale AFC Sports College.

The Kickabout presenter takes over from Jack Kerans, who is moving into a full-time teaching role at a local school.

Ian will lead the Sports College programme, which is run by Rochdale AFC Community Trust and based at Heywood Sports Village.

The college combines full-time education with football coaching and has been running for more than 10 years.

Ian presents The Kickabout on Roch Valley Radio and also has experience coaching football.

He said: "I’m really looking forward to joining Rochdale AFC Community Trust and leading the Sports College programme. It’s a fantastic opportunity to work with ambitious young players and help them develop both on and off the pitch.

"I’m excited to build on the excellent work that’s already been done and create an environment where learners can enjoy their football, achieve their qualifications and prepare for careers within the game."

Deputy Community Director Scott Webster said: "We’re delighted to welcome Ian into the role of Head Coach. Ian shares our vision of developing young people both as footballers and as individuals.

"At Rochdale AFC Community Trust, we don’t just focus on qualifications; we focus on creating opportunities, building confidence, and providing clear pathways into employment, higher education, and the wider sports industry. Ian’s experience and enthusiasm make him the ideal person to lead this generation of learners."

Jack Kerans is stepping down from the full-time head coach position after taking a teaching job at a local school.

He will remain with Rochdale AFC Community Trust on a part-time basis, working on community programmes and football teams.

The Trust said Jack had spent the past year working with learners and strengthening links with Rochdale AFC's player pathway.

Students at the Sports College work towards recognised qualifications alongside their football programme, with opportunities for work experience and coaching.

The Trust said former students have gone on to paid coaching positions within the organisation.

Pre-season preparations for the Sports College's 2026/27 campaign are already under way, with Ian due to work with returning students and new learners joining in September.