At Kixx, we believe that the people behind our sessions are the heart of everything we do. One person who embodies this perfectly is Carl Burke, franchise owner of Kixx Manchester East and Kixx Warrington. Carl is a fantastic example of how passion, professionalism, and high standards can truly make a difference to children’s lives, both on and off the pitch.
Alongside running two thriving Kixx academies, Carl also works full-time at Manchester City’s Community Foundation. Balancing these roles is no small feat, yet Carl consistently delivers an outstanding experience for children, families, and his coaching teams. His sessions focus on so much more than football—they are about building confidence, encouraging growth, and inspiring a genuine love for sport.
A Passion for Coaching
Carl’s journey into coaching was fuelled by his love for football. As he puts it:
“If I couldn’t play football for a career, coaching always seemed like the next best thing.”
His passion found its perfect home in coaching young children, particularly those in the Early Years Foundation Stage. Carl loves watching children grow, teaching them in ways that capture their imaginations and allow them to fully immerse themselves in football—often without even realising how much they are learning!
Making a Lasting Impact
When asked about a standout moment in coaching, Carl’s answer was telling:
“It’s not one moment, but the ongoing journey—seeing children who start off shy or unfocused blossom into the heart of our sessions, following instructions, answering questions, and thriving week after week. That’s what makes me proud.”
It’s this commitment to child development that shines through in the positive feedback and the wonderful progress seen across both of Carl’s academies.
More Than Just Football
Outside of coaching, Carl lives a full and happy life with his wife Jess, their new baby daughter Rosa, and their beloved cockapoo, Rico—who is somewhat of a local celebrity at Kixx Warrington! When he’s not on the pitch or delivering excellence at Manchester City’s Community Foundation, Carl loves playing Padel (a sport he’s completely obsessed with!), walking Rico, and enjoying precious family days out.
Carl describes Kixx in three words: Fun, Inclusive, and Personal. It’s these values that underpin everything he does. His coaching sessions are vibrant and engaging, his approach embraces every child’s individual journey, and his ability to form strong personal connections makes his academies truly special places for children to grow.
A True Leader
Carl’s leadership is seen not only in how he coaches but in the way he supports his team, keeps sessions well-organised, and ensures every child experiences the very best of Kixx. His ability to consistently maintain such high standards, whilst managing multiple academies and a full-time career, is an incredible achievement and a credit to his hard work and dedication.
Carl, thank you for everything you bring to Kixx. Your impact is felt every single week—you are a true inspiration to our network, and we are so proud to have you as part of the Kixx family.
Inspired by Carl’s Story?
If Carl’s journey has inspired you and you’re interested in running your own Kixx academy, we’d love to hear from you!
Take the first step by completing our quick franchise survey here:
Explore Franchising with Kixx
