James Hubert Lawrence is a distinguished football coach and former professional player, renowned for his contributions to the sport both on and off the field. His professional playing career began with Sunderland, where he made his debut in 1993. Lawrence showcased his talent as a right winger, later playing for notable clubs such as Leicester City and Bradford City. His time at Leicester was particularly memorable, as he participated in the 1997 Football League Cup Final replay, demonstrating his ability to perform at high-stakes matches.

Transitioning from player to coach, Lawrence took on the role of player-manager at Ashford Town from 2009 to 2011, where he successfully balanced his responsibilities on the pitch with managerial duties. His leadership skills were further recognized when he joined the Ghana national team as a fitness coach for the 2015 Africa Cup of Nations, highlighting his expertise in player conditioning and team performance.

In addition to his work with national teams, Lawrence has made significant contributions to club football, serving as first-team coach at Whitehawk and assistant manager at Kingstonian. His coaching philosophy emphasizes fitness and tactical awareness, which has positively impacted the teams he has worked with.

Lawrence’s commitment to football extends beyond coaching; he founded the Jamie Lawrence Football Academy in Tooting in 2008, nurturing young talent and promoting the sport in the community. His autobiography, “From Prison to Premiership,” reflects his inspiring journey and dedication to overcoming challenges, making him a role model in the football world.