The Team
Senior Management
Ben Rosser BEM
Chief Executive Officer
Recent BEM recipient, has dedicated over two decades to serving the community, making a significant and lasting impact through his tireless efforts. His commitment to local betterment is truly commendable.
Eddie Lee
IT Consultant - Volunteer
Brings vast experience in IT and has been instrumental in supporting The Pythian Club’s IT infrastructure. His expertise ensures the club’s digital operations run smoothly and efficiently.
Mandy Drake
HR/Finance/Operations Manager
Decades empowering young people while also successfully running a Nottingham-based maintenance company. Her dual commitment to youth development and local business excellence sets her apart in the community.
Max Theo Belcher
Senior Digital Marketing Manager - Volunteer
A versatile international marketeer who specialises in SEO/web-design and social media marketing for the Pythian Club.
Studying at Nottingham Trent University, IESEG and Utah State University in Management and Marketing after officially 5 years of working in similar fields, which will enable the Pythian Club to shed light further on the high-level community engagement that takes place from these leaders.
Strategic Board
Jane Wyatt-Gill
Board Member
Jane Wyatt-Gill is an ex civil-servant with extensive experience of working in central government where she worked on numerous national regeneration projects and developed national policy, for example on brownfield land use and more recently on Covid regulations. She has been a public health specialist for almost 18 years with a focus on health inequalities and the impact of childhood trauma. She was given a Ministerial award for excellence in public health for work done in Nottingham North. She has a Masters degree in Public Health from Nottingham University and was a tutor on a Masters degree course for Essex University.
Cate Tumman
Board Member
Cate Tumman is the Director and Proprietor of Silver Linings Education, with over 20 years of experience across nursery to secondary education. A Qualified Teacher, DDP Level 2 Practitioner, and holder of an NVQ Level 5 in Management, she specialises in trauma-informed and attachment-aware practice.
As an adoptive parent, Cate brings both professional expertise and lived experience to her work. She is passionate about supporting children, families, and schools to create nurturing, relationship-based environments where every child can thrive.
Paul Pearson
Board Member
Paul Pearson brings over 20 years of experience in leading and managing not-for-profit organisations focused on supporting vulnerable and socially excluded individuals. His career spans senior leadership and Chief Executive roles across areas such as homelessness, supported housing, substance misuse, healthcare, regeneration, and training. In 2006, he founded New Ground Consultancy Ltd, which has since built a strong national reputation for delivering strategic planning, funding support, and development solutions to both statutory and voluntary sector organisations.
Paul has extensive expertise in strategic development, securing funding, service transformation, and building partnerships, including developing consortia and enabling organisational mergers. He is a skilled leader with strengths in innovation, project management, bid writing, and financial planning. Committed to the core values of the not-for-profit sector, Paul champions collaboration, transparency, and inclusivity, and is known for his integrity, practical problem-solving, and ability to deliver meaningful outcomes for communities.
Jane Marriott
Board Member
Jane Marriott is a retired civil servant who spent her career at HMRC. She held a variety of posts within the department including people management, project management and compliance work. She successfully completed the full technical taxes training (equivalent to CTA). She is a proud native of Nottingham and is keen to use her professional knowledge to support the Pythian Club.
Debbie Simon
Board Member
Experienced MD & CEO with a demonstrated 30+ years of history of working with children and families in the education management industry. Skilled in Business Planning, Customer Service, Coaching, Strategic Planning, and Business Strategy. Strong business development professional with a Bachelor of Arts - BA focused in Social studies from Nottingham Trent University.
The Mascot
Finn
My name is Finn and I’ve gone across the city and country supporting the Pythian club. I especially love to be a comfort dog for young children who feel worried or scared. The highlight of my life so far is visiting Nottinghamshire police and seeing the police dogs , attending both Nottingham Trent and the University of Nottingham to meet students, alongside regular visits to different schools and businesses. I’m the talk of the town, especially at the holiday programs, where the kids love me. I’ll always give you a friendly lick. Woof
Sports & Community Support
Ashley Gorman
Head Sports Coach & Outreach Support
Backbone of The Pythian Club for years, running hundreds of sessions and engaging thousands of young people. His dedication and leadership have been instrumental in the club’s ongoing success.
Joshua Smith
Multi-Sports Coach
Extensive experience in one-to-one tutoring and sports coaching. His skills help young people achieve their academic and athletic potential. Josh has been amazing at our Holiday HAF programs across Nottingham alongside supporting on community outreach.
Sommo Chakraborty
Sports Inclusion Officer
Master’s degree in Psychology and is an Indian international with extensive achievements in both academia and cricket, having enjoyed sporting success in West Bengal. His diverse expertise enriches every team he joins.
Ian
Outreach Team Member
Known for his fantastic support with our homeless outreach programmes and primary school multisports, and is widely regarded as one of the nicest people to be around. His kindness and dedication make a real difference in our community.
Elizabeth Moody
Warm hub and activities coordinator
My name is Elizabeth Moody. I am 73 years old. I worked for Nottingham City Council for 31 years, mainly with the elderly as a day centre officer. In the 1990s, I joined the St John's ambulance bridge. I became the divisional superintendent for the cadets Robin Hood division after training and passing a number of courses. I worked with 8 - 17 year olds for approximately ten years. I really enjoyed the experience.
I now help run the Arts and Craft class and the warm hub coordinator at the Pythian Club. I also enjoy attending the knit and natter every Friday.
Charis Smith
Sports Coach & Outreach Support
Has consistently demonstrated outstanding coaching, independence, and leadership, particularly during our HAF programmes. Her commitment and initiative have made a significant impact on the young people she works with.
Elise
Community volunteer
My name is Elise, I’m a proud mum of three and a passionate community volunteer at The Pythian Club. I support and help run creative spaces such as the Arts & Crafts Club, where young people can explore their creativity, build confidence, and feel free to express themselves in a safe and welcoming environment.
Alongside this, I run a girls’ group called The Collective Queens, created to bring girls together and build a strong sense of community and sisterhood. The group focuses on supporting girls through sports, crafting, cooking, self-care, open discussions, employment guidance, and confidence-building activities.
My aim is to create a genuine support system around young girls, a space where they feel seen, heard, and encouraged to grow into their best selves. I’m deeply committed to helping them develop confidence, life skills, and positive connections, while reminding them that they are never alone on their journey.
Keppy
Sports and Community support
My Name is Keppy, I am passionate about community development, youth empowerment, and using technology as a tool for growth.
As part of The Pythian Club, I focus on outreach initiatives that connect young people, create opportunities, and build stronger networks.
I believe real impact starts with engagement, collaboration, and consistent action.
I’m always open to connecting with professionals who care about community building, tech education, and meaningful partnerships.
Public Health Team
Richard Williams
Public Health
Leading on the men’s mental health aspects at The Pythian Club, drawing on years of dedicated service to the community. His experience and commitment make him a trusted advocate for men’s wellbeing, and he is passionate about breaking down barriers and providing support for those in need.
Guruprasad Chandrappa
Public Health
Developing the public health initiatives at The Pythian Club, bringing tremendous academic achievement and a deep personal commitment to supporting those in need. His expertise and passion are helping to shape effective, inclusive health programs for the community.
Dr Simran Samudre
Public Health
Developed and delivered multiple public health initiatives, earning award nominations for her combined work with TPC. She holds a doctorate in Medicine and currently works in public health at Nottingham City Council, where her expertise and dedication continue to benefit the local community.
Hub Support
Rachel Cameron
Facilities Manager
Young Leaders
Isaac McCauley
Young Leader - Volunteer
My name is Isaac and I’m a young leader at The Pythian Club. I’m not really involved in Sports, but I’ve attended meetings with the CEO Ben Rosser, specifically a great meeting at Nottingham University Castle campus, where I met the Director of the campus, Jason Phoenix. It was a great meeting where I expressed some ideas and views about how The Pythian Club can support the UoN specifically around ‘The City is Lab’ a dynamic and virtual reality initiative that is being piloted in Nottingham.
Gabriel addo
Young Leader - Volunteer
Sports Science and Management student at Nottingham Trent University, with a strong passion for youth development and community sport. Currently gaining hands-on experience at The Pythian Club, supporting the delivery of engaging and inclusive sports sessions while helping to inspire and mentor young people.
R’Amarnai
Brammer-Anderson
Sports Coach & Community Outreach
Young Leader - Volunteer
My name is R’armani Bramer Anderson and I’ve been a young leader at the club for eight years. I’ve been involved in numerous programs alongside the Sports and Community Outreach and I was honoured to attend 10 Downing Street where I met the Prime Minister to talk about the work that we do. I’ve also the support of the 2025 community hero award sponsored by Nottinghamshire police and I also recently met East Midlands Mayor Claire Ward to talk about our community and how young people have a lot of of the solutions to our problems. I’m honoured to be part of The Pythian club and I’m grateful for all their support.
Oghenerukevwe David Odje
Young Leader - Volunteer
Hi, my name is David, and I’m a Volunteer Sports coach and Outreach worker. I have supported various sessions, but I’m so grateful that The Pythian Club helped me land my first job at Greggs Bakery. It's been amazing for me, as I’ve gained confidence and earned a little bit of money. I also study at Nottingham College, and I’m keen to be a businessman when I’m older if I don’t make it as a professional footballer.
Callum
Young Leader - Volunteer
My name is Calum, and I’m a young sports coach at the Pythian Club. I readily attend our Friday football session alongside supporting the Sunday Football Academy, where I support young footballers who are beginners, getting their confidence in football. I also support the Bike Project with my dad, who is one of the mechanics, and I’ve also attended the holiday HAF programs where I support different types of young people, some with disabilities, but all with a great BIG heart. Lastly, I had the honour to meet the East Midlands Mayor, Claire Ward, where I spoke about some of the ways that we can support our community, especially our young people.
George yeboah
Young Leader - Volunteer
I am an aspiring professional within the football industry, with a strong ambition to pursue a career in club leadership, such as a club director or a similar role behind the scenes of the game. I am deeply passionate about football not only as a sport, but as a powerful tool for community development and positive social impact.
My involvement with the Pythian Club comes from a genuine desire to contribute to meaningful community work. I am proud to volunteer with an organisation that is making a real difference, using sport to bring people together, create opportunities, and support personal growth.
Through my time at the club, I aim to develop my skills, gain valuable experience, and play an active role in supporting the club’s mission, while continuing to build towards my long-term goal of working at a high level within the footballing world.
Josh
Young Leader - Volunteer
Hi, my name is Josh and I’m a Volunteer sports coach and Community Outreach
Worker for The Pythian Club. I regularly joined Ashley on Outreach in towns feeding the Homeless alongside a regular Premier League Friday football session which I love. The Pythian Club has really given me the confidence to apply for other opportunities, and I recently was successful in getting a job at Nottingham Forest doing stewarding on match days. I really appreciate what the Pythian Club has given me, the confidence to express myself and reach my goals.
Isaiah Chikeka
Young Leader - Volunteer
Hi my name is Isaiah Chikeka I am 14 years old. Things about me: I like to play the guitar, I like cars, As job I want be an engineer mechanicist and possibly a plumber also want to start a band and produce music. i’ve been with a The Pythian club for about 4 to 5 months and I’ve got involved in numerous different things, connected to my Duke of Edinburgh to award. I supported on holiday programs alongside feeding the Homeless and helping out at a different Football sessions alongside playing. I love it so far I’m very grateful for the opportunity.
Reece Devonport
Sports Coach & Community Outreach
Young Leader - Volunteer
My name is Reece, and I am actively involved with the Pythian Club, where I support and engage with young people in a positive and inclusive environment. I am also a member of a youth forum representing children and young people in care, using my voice and lived experience to help shape better services and support. Alongside this, I am studying youth work and childcare, driven by a strong passion for advocating for young people and making a meaningful difference in their lives
I was fortunate to meet East Mayor Claire Ward where I was able to share my ideas and views about our community and how we can improve it
Donyae
Young Leader - Volunteer
My name is Donyae and i’m a 14 year old student at bluecoat aspley academy. As a young person, I enjoy playing rugby and I'm keen to work with The Pythian Club to get more young people into rugby and off the streets, as rugby is about respect, resilience, determination, and hard work. Lets go !!
Riley Morton
Young Leader - Volunteer
I am a University student at Nottingham Trent University. I graduated from my foundation degree in sports coaching and am currently studying a bachelor’s degree in sports science.
Jahray Henry Pendenque
Volunteer Sports coach and Outreach worker
A business student who is a self motivated individual looking to build my experience & knowledge to excel within the industry and learn from the ground up. I am a qualified level 3 lifeguard (RLSS) & First aider with CPR. I’m excited to be working with The Pythian club inspiring others especially our young generation.
Zayden Lindsay
Young Leader - Volunteer
My name is Zayden Lindsay and I’m 18 year old poet from Nottingham. I rose to prominence in 2017 from the Power In Poetry event, performing his first poem about bullying alongside my father, Mayor Lindsay. Ever since then I have been making my own name, performing all across the UK, with my father by my side. I have made features on the BBC news, Sunday Morning Live, and other different medias. He toured Jamaica in 2024 with my Father, performing across multiple schools around the country. I won the Young Poet award in 2023, and was nominated for an award at the Young Black Achievers Awards 2025. I have performed at the Pythian club over the years, and I am a proud member of the youth team who are working on a large event happening in the summer. I have done work with them in supporting the homeless and those less fortunate than I, and worked with them in trying to make a difference in the community.
Shazad Akhtar
Young Leader - Volunteer
My name is Shazad Akhtar, and I’ve been with The Pythian Club for seven years. I especially like supporting the Premier League Friday football session, where I’m a regular attendee. I don’t let my walking disability stop me from supporting our community and being a positive role model for others to follow. Ben calls me the Lion because I’m Fearless and will continue to promote and empower young people. I love the club, it’s like a family.
Chloe
Young Leader - Volunteer
Hi, my name is Chloe, and I’m very proud to be involved in The Pythian Club. I have mainly been involved in sports sessions, especially the holiday programs. I’m always keen to help out and be a positive force for the girls in our communities. Because it’s not just about the boys! Girls are better LOL!
Cody
Young Leader - Volunteer
Hi, my name is Cody. I’m not interested in being a sports coach for The Pythian Club. I enjoy taking part in the holiday activities but my special highlight was being part of a five safety program with Notts Fire & Rescue e where over six weeks. I served as a trainee Fire cadet at Stockhill Fire Station. It was the most memorable experience ever, and I was really grateful to The Pythian club for this experience.
Yaseen
Young Leader - Volunteer
I’ve supported the holiday program. I love working with young people, especially providing sports activities.
Warren Andrew Sturman
Volunteer Sports coach and Outreach worker
My name is Warren and I’m part of the Sports and community outreach team. I also don’t let my disability stop me and I’m probably involved in different initiatives including supporting Ben at different alternative provisions schools and colleges. I’m passionate about making real change and I’ll continue to do my best to support an empower our young generation. Pythian club for life.
Rio
Young Leader - Volunteer
My name is Rio, I’m a highly motivated and passionate individual who’s studying business T level after my GCSE, I’m also a Pythian young leader , helping the youth and community in any way I can while working on my employability and life skills. I’m currently working on a community event in the summer.