Brentford Football Club is pleased to confirm the appointment of Gary McDermott as its new head coach of the Under-18s.

McDermott, who joined the club eight months ago as head coach for the Under-13s/14s, now steps into the Professional Development Phase, taking over from Jon-Paul Pittman, who held the role in the interim period following Lydia Bedford’s departure earlier in the season.

Bringing a wealth of experience from Bristol City, Southampton and most recently Forest Green Rovers, McDermott has been with the Bees for the last eight months and made an immediate impact within the academy. He will lead the U18s for the 2025/26 season.

With prior experience coaching Forest Green's U18s, McDermott brings with him a strong foundation of youth development expertise and a passion for shaping both the player and the person.

“I’m really looking forward to it and I want to say a massive thanks to Jamie Greenwood and Stephen Torpey for trusting me with the opportunity," he said.

"This is a special project and from the moment I arrived, it was clear I wanted to be a part of it."

McDermott began his coaching career at Bristol City and spent a decade at Southampton working across the U9s-16s age groups.

That period, he explained, was instrumental in developing his emotional intelligence and philosophy as a coach.

“One of my frustrations as a player was being told what to do in every little detail," he added.

"I want to create a culture where players can challenge themselves, think independently, and figure out how they can best help the team.

"I call it a 'co-create' process, it allows players to build independence and it creates an environment where they can see that we are giving them responsibility in their development.

"I think this will definitely foster a learning and progressive culture which is exactly what I want from the team."

He also paid tribute to Pittman, who supported the transition and has left a solid foundation.

“I want to give massive credit to JP for the way he has helped with the handover," McDermott continued.

"The work he has done with the group has made this transition smooth.

"There has been a lot of growth from the players this season and I want to continue on from the good work that has been put in place.”

Brentford’s commitment to progressive, player-first development has been a key driver for McDermott’s decision to make the leap into the PDP.

“There’s a clear style and identity from the top, and strong relationships across the Academy and B team set-up," he said.

"I’ve got a good relationship with Neil MacFarlane and Sam Saunders in the B team - that connection will be key.”

McDermott added: “It’s about implementing a culture where players work hard and become the best versions of themselves – as footballers and people.

"As long as they feel I’ve helped them get better and that I was a good guy in their journey, then I’ll feel I’ve done my job.”

Stephen Torpey, academy director, said: “Gary has shown outstanding commitment and leadership since joining us and we’re confident he’ll bring real quality to the U18s.

"He understands our environment, has built strong relationships with players and staff, and is someone who will drive standards every day.”

Jamie Greenwood, head of academy football youth development, added: “Gary has earned this opportunity through his work across the younger age groups as well as his prior experience and the way he’s embraced the culture here at Brentford. He’s got the right values and a clear understanding of how we want to develop our players both on and off the pitch.”

Brentford’s U18s will now look ahead to the new season with McDermott at the helm, continuing to build on the strong foundations in place and driving forward the academy's purpose.