Everton’s Global Vision in Action at IGB International School

The Everton International Academy were proud to visit our esteemed partner, IGB International School in Malaysia.

This visit marked another exciting chapter in our shared journey to elevate youth development through world-class football education. Mark Thompson, Technical Coaching Manager at Everton International Academy spent a week visiting the school, both directing coaching and strengthening the educational curriculum.

Since joining the elite tier of the Everton International Academy Affiliate Programme (EIAAP) in July 2024, IGB has demonstrated an unwavering commitment to enhancing its sports provision and nurturing young talent.

Mark’s visit was a powerful testament to this commitment, bringing Everton’s values and expertise directly to the heart of the school community.

During his time at IGB, Mark oversaw a dynamic free trial session that drew over 70 passionate young players—each one a reflection of the growing enthusiasm for Everton’s programming in the region.

The energy on the pitch was electric, and the turnout underscored the deepening appetite for high-quality football development across Southeast Asia.

Beyond the pitch, Mark collaborated closely with IGB’s leadership to align Everton’s New Coaching Curriculum with the school’s unique ethos and educational philosophy. More than just strategy, this alignment drives the foundation and broadening success of the partnership.

The synergy between Everton’s holistic approach to player development and IGB’s forward-thinking educational values is a cornerstone of our long-term vision for global impact.

Dr Greg Brunton, Head of IGB International School, said: “It's an unbelievable opportunity and firstly we are super proud to have the partnership with Everton.

“Having official technical representation from the Club was a chance for students, not only within our Everton programme but also in the wider community, to have some exposure of what professional coaching is like and to get to know a bit more about Everton and the partnership that we have here at IGB International School.

“The teams here have done remarkably well in just the first year. We only started the season halfway through the year, so only within six months and several of the teams have already become champions of the league in their first six months.

“So, this is impressive and it's a clear sign of the quality delivery that the students get here at the Everton programme at IGB International School, to have such great results in such a short period of time.”

Walking through IGB’s state-of-the-art facilities - proudly adorned with Everton branding - the strength of this international partnership is clear, and a vivid reminder that the Club’s influence extends far beyond the UK, inspiring young athletes and educators around the world.

Mark Thompson, Technical Coaching Manager at Everton International Academy, added: “I think the way the school's integrated the programme within the school and the educational piece is fantastic.

“They’ve done an astounding job and its testament to the people that organise and run the school. IGB 100% behind making the affiliate partnership a success.”

Everton’s International Academy Affiliate Partnership programme, which is available to grassroots teams, professional sides, youth academies, girls and women’s teams, as well as colleges and universities, was launched in 2020. 

The programme, which aims to expand the knowledge and expertise of Everton’s player development processes to affiliated clubs across the world, has affiliates in the US, Canada, South America, Africa, Australia and Ireland.

To find out more, click here.