About Us
JLFP - James Boyle
James is a retired youth professional footballer with over 30 years’ experience across playing, coaching, and technical leadership roles in both the UK and Australia.
He began his football journey at local club level before progressing through the Scottish system, signing a professional youth contract at just 15 years old as a schoolboy. Following his playing career, James transitioned into coaching and technical development, building extensive experience across elite youth and senior environments.
James holds a range of high-level coaching qualifications, including the UEFA ‘A’ Licence and AFC ‘B’ Licence, alongside additional certifications from the Scottish Football Association and UEFA. He is also a qualified Talent Identification Agent with the English FA and a licensed football intermediary.
Previously, James served as SAP & Youth Technical Director at a Football NSW NPL1 club, where he was responsible for the development of 140+ players and the leadership of eight coaches, while also contributing as a State-level coach within New South Wales elite programs.
James is currently coaching at both senior men’s and NPL level and continues to work closely with overseas clubs, providing tactical analysis, player evaluation, and technical insight.
His experience, results, and reputation have positioned him at international level, with formal approaches from European clubs acknowledging his value and influence.
Sports Scientist - Gary Rafferty
Gary Rafferty is a seasoned football fitness coach and the founder of Football Fitness AU, based in Sydney, Australia. With over two decades of experience across three continents, he has worked with more than 1,000 players, ranging from youth to professional levels. Gary has played football in the UK, USA, and Australia at amateur, collegiate, and semi-professional tiers, which has deeply informed his coaching approach.
Through Football Fitness AU, Gary offers personalized coaching programs designed to help players achieve professional-level match fitness, maintain peak performance, and reduce the risk of injuries—all without overwhelming their schedules. His services include customised training plans, nutrition guidance, and direct access to coaching support. Gary's philosophy centre's on providing practical, player-centric solutions that fit seamlessly into the lives of amateur and aspiring professional footballers.
Chas Samashonga
Chas Samashonga is a highly respected football coach and goalkeeper specialist known for his strong focus on youth development, particularly within the Australian football system. With years of experience working closely with aspiring players, Chas has built a reputation for developing not only technical ability but also the mindset and discipline required to progress in competitive football. His coaching style emphasizes fundamentals, game intelligence, and situational awareness, particularly in goalkeeper-specific training.
Chas has played a pivotal mentoring role for numerous players who have gone on to earn professional contracts, trial internationally, or represent clubs at the NPL and academy level. His commitment to individual growth and high-performance standards has made him a trusted figure among players and coaching staff alike. Whether on the training ground or guiding athletes through their next career steps, Chas remains deeply committed to helping young footballers realise their full potential.
Sharon Brown
Sharon Brown is a highly experienced Pilates instructor and owner of Sharon Brown Pilates, based in Castle Hill, NSW. With over 25 years in the fitness industry and more than 13 years specializing in Pilates, Sharon brings a wealth of knowledge and expertise, particularly in the Menezes Method™—a dynamic approach focused on core strength, flexibility, and posture.
Sharon has formed a valuable partnership with JBFC, providing tailored Pilates programs designed to enhance the physical conditioning and injury prevention of the club’s players. Through this collaboration, she works closely with athletes across various age groups to improve their strength, balance, and body awareness, key components for football performance and recovery. Her client-centered approach ensures that each player receives personalized guidance, helping them maintain peak fitness and reduce the risk of injury throughout demanding training and match schedules. This partnership has become an integral part of JBFC’s holistic player development, combining football training with specialized Pilates to optimize athletic performance and longevity.