9thjuly03

Whitstable's Smudger set to take on Fulham coaching role
Popular Whitstable Town midfielder Dave Smith is to pursue his coaching career, hopefully culminating with a youth coaching position with Fulham. Dave already holds badge one at coaching and is taking his stage two which manager Mat Toms said will help him achieve his goal.

"I know Dave wants to progress on the coaching side, he has asked me to provide a reference for him, which I was more than happy to do. It's always sad when a player moves on but chances like this are rare and Dave needs to work hard,
grasp the chance and concentrate on his future. Of course it leaves a hole in the side, but as is always the case it means that there is an opportunity for one of the younger players to progress with Town, which is the way we are moving forward. 'Smudger' is well liked everyone at the club, all the players respect and like him and it will seem strange that he is not around, but he will keep in touch and we will welcome him back at 'The Belmont Ground'." said Toms.

Tony Rouse  www.whitstabletownfc.co.uk