Meet the Manager
Greetings, and thank you for taking the time to read this section of the programme which has a bit of background about me, the person who has the pleasure of leading this squad of players for the 22/23 campaign.
Having been here at Axminster Town AFC now for three seasons it’ll be of no surprise to hear that I have unbelievable pride in the position and responsibility I hold at this great club. Having played since the age of fourteen, when injury and a lack of ability stopped me from playing, the natural progression was to step into the dugout.
Hemyock gave me my first chance where I secured a newly formed second team promotion at the first time of asking by finishing runners up in the Devon and Exeter league Division 8. Then the club where I played most of my football, Upottery, offered me the chance to take the hot seat. I stayed for nine years and along with winning their first ever title, we also achieved three promotions; won the Bill Slee Cup; the Seaton Challenge Cup and the Grandisson Cup twice. We were also runners up in the Morrison Bell Cup.
It was always going to take something special to get me away from Upottery but Axminster Town AFC was that club, when I was offered the chance, to run a brand-new second team in my inaugural season. This was quickly followed by the opportunity to take on the top job in a division I have never managed in before – the South West Peninsula League.
It’s a fantastically run league with one of football’s Mr nice guys, Phil Hiscox, as secretary. We managed to finish sixth in my first season with what felt like a million draws (thirteen).
We now look to build on last season with the target being a top five finish and possibly securing Western League football when the leagues are restructured for the 2023-24 season.
This is a fantastic club with fantastic people who give up their spare time to make my life easier, which I’m very grateful for. The facility and pitch are something to be proud of and with the youth set up here the future is bright. The aim is to engage the town and the wider area and grow the fan base and pool of volunteers. The only way I think I can help with this is to win football matches with a side who look to entertain. I’m very confident that you will enjoy your time at Tiger Way today, and I’m sure you will be back soon!
