Head of Academy Coaching Dan Micciche will leave Milton Keynes Dons next month to take up a position with The Football Association.
The 34-year-old will join The FA in August to become Coach and Player Development Technical Lead (Under-12s-Under-16s).
Having joined the Club from Tottenham Hotspur in October 2007, Dan initially worked on a part-time basis with the Under-9s- Under-12s but eventually took control of coaching for the Under-9s-Under-16s.
In his six years with the Dons Dan, along with Director of Youth Mike Dove, has developed a successful games and training programme which has seen 11 schoolboys receive international recognition.
Dove said: “Dan’s been here for almost six years and the Academy has come a long way with him. When the Academy was set up and I needed somebody to come in with a similar vision to me and someone who was creative, innovative and he has been just that.
“What he has added to the Academy has been incredible; he has taken us to another level. Dan has developed a unique programme for the schoolboys and it is part of our DNA now, we will evolve and build on that.
“I have my own thoughts on how we develop players in this country and I think that having someone like Dan, who isn’t your stereotypical English coach, in The FA is only a good thing. The set-up he is going into sounds really exciting and I think it is a good time for him to join The FA.
“It’s sad to see him go but for Dan and his individual career I am really pleased for him. I want to thank Dan for all of his hard work, his innovative ideas and his creativity – it has rubbed off on our players and their parents as well. I wish him the best of luck from the Academy and as a friend.”
Chairman Pete Winkelman added: “It comes as no surprise that Dan’s good work within our Academy has caught the attention of The Football Association. During his time with the Football Club Dan has worked tirelessly on creating a unique learning environment, philosophy and style which our junior teams have become renowned for.
“Our loss can only be The FA’s and hopefully England’s gain in the very near future.
“On behalf of everyone I would like to wish Dan the best of luck in his new role and look forward to welcoming him to stadiummk as a friend of the Football Club.”
