Paul Thomas
Executive Director & Co-Founder
Paul brings over two decades of coaching and leadership experience to Michigan Development Academy, where he serves as Executive Director and co-founder. A Manchester native and naturalized U.S. citizen, Paul has coached at every level of the game — from college programs to semi-professional and MLS-affiliated clubs — and his commitment to player development is at the core of everything MDA does.
Paul holds a USSF 'A' License and a Master of Science in Recreation and Sports Science from Ohio University, along with a Director of Coaching Diploma and a USSF Grassroots Instructor License. He has served as a National Coach Educator with U.S. Soccer since 2014, shaping coaches across the country. His head coaching resume includes a standout tenure with the Michigan Bucks (USL2), where he won two national championships, multiple league titles, and three Steinbrenner Cup wins. Within MDA, he coaches the 2017 Boys, 2012 Boys, and 2008 Girls teams, and also serves as varsity boys head coach at Groves High School.
Paul moved to the United States in 2000 and became a citizen in 2011. He played semi-professionally in England before transitioning fully into coaching, and remains a lifelong Manchester City supporter. He is married to Sarah and has two sons, Ethan and Cameron.