After a short spell as interim manager, leading Sutton United Women to promotion last season, Will is about to embark on his first full season as manager of the first team with an opener against Fulham on 21st August. We caught up with Will to hear his ambitions for the season and how he wants to make our Girls and Women section an open and welcoming place for all.
Previous Clubs:
Sutton United Youth and Reserves (men's), Corinthian Casuals Reserve Team Manager (men's), Dorking Wanderers Ladies FC Manager
22/23 Season Expectations:
Establish ourselves as a Tier 5 side in the London and South East Regional Women's League. It would be nice to have a good run in the Women's FA Cup. Grow the women's and girls section.
How have you found working with SUFC Women so far?:
It has been really challenging trying to change the 'pre-existing' perceptions of the women's section at the club. Part of the changes made have been to encourage a more approachable and open manner within the section.
I have introduced a structure across the women's and girls' section which mirrors that of the CAT 3 Academy to encourage a transparent pathway for players into the first team.
I have brought in Fred Wright as assistant manager and Patrick McLaughlin as First Team Goalkeeping Coach and retained Tyrone Reid as First Team coach.
What are your long term goals for the team?:
Continue with our overall aim of increasing participation of young female players in all age groups from our wildcats centre through to the women's first team.
Re-connect with local clubs, schools and community organisations to promote women's and girls' football in the area.
Establish an academy style programme across the entire section to ensure all female players have every opportunity to reach their full potential.
Enhance the training facilities across the section to ensure the players have the best possible facilities available to them to learn and develop their football
How have you found working at the club in general?: Really welcoming - The board of directors have provided excellent support for the section.
Favourite Music: Anything (if i like it, i like it!)
Favourite TV show: Currently Mortimer and Whitehouse Gone Fishing
Favourite Takeaway: Curry
Hobby outside of football: Fishing
What team do you support: Sutton United
Footballing Hero: Micky Joyce
Messi or Ronaldo: Messi
Hidden Talents: Too many to mention!
For the Women's first team fixtures in the London & South Eastern Regional League Premier Division until the end of November click here. Kick off times and venues will be confirmed nearer the dates of the games.
Keep up to date as Will and the Women progress through the season. Follow them across social media @suttonUtdWomen