FSA UK Director Mark Smith Becomes Newport County's Assistant Manager

FSA UK Academy Director Mark Smith has last week joined Newport County as Assistant Manager to newly appointed boss Christian Fuchs.

The new assistant arrives at Rodney Parade as part of Fuchs’ new-look coaching team, bringing years of academy expertise, talent identification experience, and leadership from his work across youth football. His appointment strengthens Newport’s backroom staff as the club looks to build momentum across the remainder of the League Two season.

Mark began his coaching career at Crystal Palace in 2013 before later joining Brighton & Hove Albion in 2015 as both a scout and academy coach. He then went on to launch 10Coaching, which merged with Christian Fuchs’ vision to form Fox Soccer Academy UK in 2014. Since then, he has played a major role in shaping the academy’s methodology, culture, and long-term strategy.

Across his time at FSA UK, Mark has worked as both Academy Director and a registered football agent, helping guide numerous players and families through scholarships, trials, and professional opportunities.

He has been a key figure in the progression of FSA graduates such as Beck-Ray Enoru, Cameron Ashia, Dominic Johnson-Fisher, and Denzel Akyeampong, to name a few.

Mark will continue to support Fox Soccer Academy in a reduced capacity while taking on his new role at Newport County.

Everyone at FSA wishes Mark the very best as he steps into this exciting next stage of his coaching career!