Ex-Hartlepool United academy manager lands big promotion at Sunderland AFC
Sunderland have confirmed the appointment of John Hewitson, a former academy chief at Hartlepool United.
Sunderland have appointed John Hewitson as the club’s new head of academy.
Hewitson, a former academy manager at Hartlepool United, has worked in Sunderland’s academy since 2019 in a number of different roles, most recently as individual coach and player developer. He has been promoted following the departure of Robin Nicholls, who arrived from Southampton in 2022 but has departed for a new opportunity in New York.
A club statement said Hewitson ‘brings a deep understanding of the club's values, player development philosophy and connection to the local community.’ Hewitson had previously enjoyed a lengthy spell as academy manager at Pools. Hewitson spent eight years heading up the club's academy, helping to bring through the likes of Josh Hawkes and Lewis Hawkins, as well as the likes of Luke James, Brad Walker and Connor Simpson.
Sunderland director of Football Florent Ghisolfi said the decision was an ‘expression of the club’s identity’. “The Academy is a fundamental part of Sunderland AFC's identity and our future,” he said.
“Following Robin's departure, it was important for us to consider the outstanding talent we already have within the club, and John stood out as the right person to lead the next chapter. Promoting from within is about more than continuity, it is an expression of our identity. It is about recognising people who understand our culture, our community and what this football club represents. We are building an elite development environment, and having leaders who share our values is essential to that process.
“The progress of players such as Chris Rigg, who continues to perform at the highest level with our first team in the Premier League, demonstrates the importance of a strong Academy pathway.”
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Interim CEO Tom Burwell said the club would invest heavily in the Academy of Light this summer to ensure the club remains the best place for the region’s young players.
“Our commitment to the Academy remains stronger than ever,” he said. “The Academy is a vital part of Sunderland AFC's future, and John's appointment reflects our belief in the strength of the work already taking place across the football club. We look forward to supporting him as he leads the next phase of its development.”
John Hewitson reacts after being named Sunderland academy manager
Hewitson said he was ‘incredibly proud’ to be taking on the role. “I am incredibly proud to take on this role at such an exciting time for Sunderland AFC,” he said. “Having worked within the Academy for a number of years, I have seen first-hand the dedication of our players, staff and families, and the important role the Academy plays within the football club and the wider community.
“We have a strong foundation in place and a clear vision for the future. Our aim is to continue creating an environment that challenges and supports young players to maximise their potential, while ensuring the values and identity of Sunderland AFC remain at the heart of everything we do.”
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