Tunbridge Wells ditch reserve side

Monday 15th June 2009

TUNBRIDGE WELLS have chosen to temporarily withdraw its under 21 (reserve) team for next season to focus their efforts on positioning the first team to consolidate and to move forward, writes Stephen McCartney.

First-team boss Mike Robbins quit the Culverden Stadium club month and his number two Martin Larkin has taken over the reigns ahead of next season.

That followed the news that last season’s under 21 boss Vince Shell had opted to move to Kent League rivals Lordswood in a similar role.

Shell had led the second string to fifth place in the Bulmers Cider Kent League second division last season - but the club feel they should drop this side next season.

“There is a lot of work that happens in the background to ensure a smooth transition when a managerial switch happens at any club,” said club spokesman Joe Croker.

“That is far more the case when it happens with both the first and reserve teams at the same time - and that can sometimes be the detriment of the first team the second string is primarily designed to support.”

In his statement, issued on www.tunbridgewellsfc.co.uk, he added, “After much discussion, it was felt the focus for next season should be on ensuring a strong and healthy first team flourishes before strength-in-depth is added in the form of an under 21 side in the near future.”

Consequently, the club’s first pre-season fixture will now take place at Culverden Stadium on Saturday, 11th July (3pm) against neighbouring Vandanel Kent County League side Rusthall, who could benefit from promising local youngsters who are looking for new clubs.

Meanwhile, the board have confirmed that the youth teams will increase with u13, u14 and u16 teams all playing in the Kent Youth League next season, continuing to cultivate future home-grown talent for the club.

Both the u13s and u14s attracted over 25 talented players to the recent open trials, which were held last month by qualified coaches.

In addition, a disability team and potentially a ladies team will also represent the club next season.

Meanwhile, the club are still looking for a physio and ladies team manager and interest people should email secretary@twfcexec.com.

Article courtesy of www.tunbridgewellsfc.co.uk