23rdjune04A

Telford brings more professionalism to Tunbridge Wells

Former Ashford Town coach seeks improvement at Culverden Stadium


TUNBRIDGE WELLS Football Club will have a new assistant manager alongside boss Kevin Metcalf for the start of the new season after the appointment of Martin Telford after Phil Harris indicated he will step down to move abroad, writes Stephen McCartney.

The club committee at the Go Travel Kent League Premier Division club thanked Harris for his hard work over what was a very difficult 2003-2004 season at Culverden Stadium.

Having joined the club at the end of September 2003 from British Energy Kent County League outfit Tenterden Town, Harris played a key part in his capacity as assistant manager in steadying the ship and setting Tunbridge Wells in good stead to enjoy what are anticipated to be much brighter times this year.

Martin Telford, 43, was Ashford Town's reserve team manager/coach/head of youth development for the past three years, and brings some excellent credentials to Culverden Stadium, including a Scottish FA Grade 1 Badge, UEFA B Badge and UEFA A Class 1 Badge in football coaching.  He is currently studying for his FIFA Technical & Sports Science Badge.

Telford's footballing career included spells playing at Aberdeen under current Manchester United manager, Sir Alex Ferguson and Berwick Rangers.  Unfortunately, a promising career was ended early at the age of 26 due to a badly broken leg and ligament damage.

In his new role, the outspoken Scotsman will assume responsibility for training, coaching and tactics, while Metcalf will head up player management.

Looking forward to linking up with Metcalfe, Telford revealed: "I am especially excited about helping forge a solid link between the first, reserve and youth sides.  I emphasise that I am looking forward to the prospect of everybody training together and forming a real sense of togetherness throughout the squad."

By forming the mentality that everyone is a potential first team player within the club, it is expected that achievements will improve on the pitch at all levels.  The management team will be looking to gear up expectation of the playing squad this season.  All involved at Tunbridge Wells expect to see a more competitive club at all levels for season 2004-2005, and installing a keener attitude throughout the squad will go a long way towards achieving that.

With pre-season training already underway, Tunbridge Wells have a testing list of pre-season friendlies to get through before the season starts in earnest on Saturday 14th August.  All eyes will be on how the management team are shaping up the squad for the new season.

Hastings United are the first visitors to Culverden Stadium, in Culverden Down on Wednesday 21 July (7.45pm) before Oakwood are the visitors on Saturday 24 July (3.00pm).

The Wells make the short trip to Longmead Stadium to face Ryman (Isthmian) Premier Division newcomers Tonbridge Angels to contest the Courier Cup on Saturday 31 July (3.00pm).

Charlton Athletic bring their under 18's squad to Culverden Stadium on Wednesday 4 August (7.45pm) before Eastbourne Town visit Culverden on Saturday 7 August (3.00pm).

Tunbridge Wells complete their pre-season programme with a trip to Ryman League Second Division outfit Clapton on Tuesday 10 August (7.30pm)

Meanwhile, on July 14th, the club will draw its official sponsor for season 2004-05.  Companies interested in entering the draw can do so at a cost of £100.  The winning company is guaranteed:

Shirt sponsorship for season 2004-2005
Company logo on the official matchday programme cover
A full-page advert in the matchday programme
One free use of the clubhouse for a corporate or social event
A mention in press releases to local media
The option of two perimeter advertising boards around the pitch (paid for by sponsor if required)

However, unsuccessful entrants will receive a listing mention within the matchday programme for season 2004-2005 and one matchday sponsorship during the season.

Anybody interested in entering the sponsorship draw should contact the club, by telephoning Barry Whitlock 07774 893 218.


Send in your club's news to Stephen McCartney and we will publish it:
Email:  stephen@mccartney2000.fsnet.co.uk
Telephone:  07979 418 360