Mike grew up playing street football before having trials with Oldham and Rochdale. He was a grassroots volunteer before having coaching spells with pro clubs including Burnley, Blackpool and Fleetwood Town. He set up the Fleetwood Town International Football Academy and enjoyed a spell coaching for Aston Villa in China. McGarvey has set up his own coaching program, Fylde Coast Soccer and focuses on the importance of educating players and parents.