Ahead of the new National League North campaign, we take a closer look at the changes that have been made to the football management team.
During the summer, popular Goalkeeper Coach Barry Farr left the club after over a decade of dedicated service at The Brewery Field – we all wish him all the best for the future.
Moors legend Gavin Cogdon also left his position as Strength & Conditioning Coach and the club recently revealed that he has now taken over as Head of Youth Football on an interim basis.
Joint Managers, Anthony Johnson and Bernard Morley continue to be supported by First Team Coach, Steve Halford and have also now drafted in Goalkeeper Coach, Martin Campbell.
Campbell was Goalkeeper Coach at Ramsbottom United last term but joined Moors during pre-season to help prepare keepers Max Metcalfe and Harry Flatters for the big kick-off. A former Ramsbottom and Rossendale United keeper himself, Campbell will use his vast experience to help the club’s young shot-stoppers to develop during the coming season.
Also taking on a new role for 2022/23 is Jamie Sinclair, who steps up as Physiotherapist after spending time on work placement with the club last term when he gained experience alongside Andy Oates. Jamie is a third-year student at Teesside University studying for a degree in physiotherapy.
Andy Oates now operates as the club’s Head of Sports Science and Physiotherapy, allowing Jamie to take over matchday duties whilst Andy takes an overarching approach to injury management.
Meanwhile, Chris Mason has been retained on a playing contract by Moors but will step into the role of Strength & Conditioning coach for the forthcoming campaign. Mason needs little introduction to supporters having played over 300 games for the club, helping them to win four Northern League titles and the FA Vase.
“I would like to thank Barry and Gav for all the work they did – they are all part of the fabric of this Football Club, the DNA and what has taken club to where it is,” said boss Anthony Johnson.
“For various reasons they have moved on, but they are genuine top blokes who Bernard and I got to know very well, and we’ll always appreciate the help they gave us when we first took the job.
“Andy and Gav will still be involved in different roles and departments, but we’ve now worked to put together a strong backroom staff to work with Bernard and I, as well as our assistant, Steve Halford.
“Martin Campbell is someone we have worked with in the past so it’s great to have him on board, while Jamie Sinclair was shadowing Andy Oates last season so that’s given him a superb platform to step up the head role this season.
“Chris Mason is another legend of this club who is going to be stepping up to that strength and conditioning role and will also be signing-up as a player so, overall, we’re absolutely delighted with the staff we have behind us.
“It’s all about trust when you look to have a successful backroom staff – we had it with the previous lads, and we’ve got it again with those who have stepped up, so we’re really pleased.”
