Steve Ives steps down as Tunbridge Wells manager after a difficult time at Culverden Stadium

TUNBRIDGE WELLS chairman Scott Bartlett has announced that manager Steve Ives has resigned from the role.

 

The Wells are currently third-from-bottom in the ninth-tier Southern Counties East Football League Premier Division table, having picked up nine points (two wins, three draws and seven defeats) from their 12 games.

The Culverden Stadium based outfit are just one point above the relegation zone, which contains Beckenham Town (eight games from 14 games) and Erith & Belvedere (six points from 13 games).

Highly-respected Ives has performed miracles under challenging circumstances during his time at the club, which has ended today, following a 5-4 home defeat against the side immedaitely above them, SE Dons, last weekend.

“Steve has been manager since the summer of 2023 and, throughout his time with the club, has shown unwavering dedication, passion and commitment to Tunbridge Wells FC,” said Mr Bartlett in a statement.

“The committee would like to place on record its sincere thanks to Steve for his hard work and contribution over the past three years.

“Managing a football team at this level demands a significant of time and energy, and we are grateful for everything Steve has given to the role.

“Steve’s tenure has been a difficult time for the club, however, Steve has worked tirelessly of continuing the team’s participation in The FA Vase.

“Steve will be greatly missed by everyone at the club and we wish him nothing but the very best for the future.”

The club has not stated whom will be in charge of the side for Saturday’s trip to league leaders Fisher, where Ives pondered his future after suffering a heavy defeat in Rotherhithe on the final day of last season, but James Porter is expected to take interim charge of the side.

Ives, who always answered the difficult post-match questions and is fully-respected for the way he always conducted himself,  also considered his future following a goal-less FA Vase home draw against Stansfeld on 10 October.

Tunbridge Wells, who finished in ninth-place and tenth-place under Ives, travel to Farnborough-based Cove in The FA Vase Third Round on 28 November.

Eastbourne resident Ives added: “Thank you from the bottom of my heart to everyone who has supported me during my time at the helm.

“It’s been an honour and I will remember everything and everyone with incredible fondness.”

The club are now seeking applications for the role of first team manager and enquiries should be directed to Scott Bartlett at chairman@twfcexec.com.”