Thousands raised for family of Dacorum goalkeeping coach who died aged 38

Joel Canning, a goalkeeping coach who worked with children of all abilities, in Buckinghamshire and Hertfordshire, passed away suddenly.

Local football communities are in mourning with many parents paying tribute to the coach who had over 20 years experience. Football clubs in both Hertfordshire and Buckinghamshire have also paid tribute to the former stopper who helped get many keepers ready for the semi-professional level, and higher.

Joel was also a husband to Michelle and dad to Summer, a fundraiser supporting his family – which can be found online here – has raised thousands in under 24 hours.

Since 2016, Joel inspired the next generation of shot-stoppers in Buckinghamshire and Hertfordshire via his academy franchise, GK Icon. He was in charge of the Aylesbury, Berkhamsted, and Watford, affiliate of the national company launched by former Watford goalkeeper, Richard Lee.

Previously, in his 20-plus years in coaching Joel held mentoring roles with the Football Association, Watford FC and Northampton Town FC.

Joel turned to coaching at 16, after a serious knee injury ended his hopes of playing professionally. As a youngster Joel was talented enough to represent both Watford and Queens Park Rangers youth teams and played men’s football at the semi-professional level.

Tom Bamford writes on GoFundMe: “To so many, he was an exceptional goalkeeping coach — passionate, dedicated, and deeply invested in every person he worked with. He had a rare gift for seeing potential in others, not only developing talented goalkeepers, but inspiring and mentoring many to go on and become coaches themselves. His knowledge, patience, and belief in people shaped countless lives, and his influence will continue to be felt for years to come through the people he guided.

“But beyond football, Joel was a devoted husband, a loving father, and a friend who touched the hearts of so many. His kindness, encouragement, and unwavering support made a lasting difference to everyone fortunate enough to know him.

“His passing has left an unimaginable void in the lives of his wife and daughter, who are now facing the heartbreaking reality of navigating life without him.”

At the time of writing 215 people have donated to the page raising a total of £9,188. One contributor talked of how they witnessed their son grow from “a little boy to a young man”. Another described Joel as an “immense source of encouragement”, they said: “he also always had time for my endless questions and [was] a great source of advice”.

Berkhamsted Raiders also paid tribute to the late coach. “We were deeply saddened to hear of the passing of Joel Canning of GK Icon this week,” the club said in a statement. “He had coached many Raiders aspiring goalkeepers over the years, and will be remembered as a kind and caring person, who brought his natural enthusiasm and passion for goalkeeping to all the players he coached.

“He will be hugely missed and our thoughts are with his family, friends and colleagues at this incredibly difficult time.”

Joel's fundraising page can be found on GoFundMe. His family have asked people to respect their privacy and have asked not to be contacted at this time.