A native of Glasgow, Scotland, David graduated with honors from Lancaster University and earned a Bachelor of Science in Coaching and Sport Performance. Coach Hughes also has a strong playing and coaching background in soccer, having played with Carlisle United Football Club and Workington AFC. David holds a UEFA B License, NSCAA Advanced National and the FA Level Two Goalkeeper Coaching.

Hughes also gained a high quality coaching experience after returning to Carlisle United as a Youth Academy coach. He served as an assistant on the Philadelphia Fury men's professional soccer team as an assistant coach and is currently the Head Coach of the Men's Soccer program at Harcum College.

Dave also coaches the SJEB FC 2008, 2009 and 2010 Boys teams.

Hughes' philosophy includes creating a positive team environment that encourages individual player creativity, expression and development whilst encouraging a quality team based possession and counter attacking approach.