New Alfold manager Healy showed drive and ambition

Jody Healy has taken up the reins at Alfold as the new manager for the 2016/17 season.
Alfold manager Jody Healy and chairman Colin ChaplinAlfold manager Jody Healy and chairman Colin Chaplin
Alfold manager Jody Healy and chairman Colin Chaplin

The former Loxwood Reserves and Pulborough boss was assistant at the Southern Combination League Division 2 side last season, as well as running under-19 football at the Weald School.

Alfold stalwart Adam Saunders will join the management team in an assistant capacity.

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After asking former boss Tom Millar to step down, the club met several interested applicants, but Healy had the drive and ambition to take the club to another level.

Healy said: “The club now has a clear five-year plan and we think we are ahead of schedule. We are not solely judging ourselves on final league positions.

“Some people thought that we not be able to compete at this level, they had changed their minds by the end of last season.

“We have a great bunch of lads that enjoy their football and are competitive. Respect is very important, both on and off the field.”

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The decision to move to the Southern Combination Football League in the last off-season paid off and club officials and players have enjoyed the challenges that this has brought.

They performed creditably in their first season and impressed visiting team and officials, not only with the first class facilities and pitches, but with their hardworking and positive approach to their football.

The reserve team also had an excellent season gaining a promotion, and next season will play in the newly-shaped WSFL Division 1 North.

Club secretary Wayne Mouring said: “When the club was offered the opportunity to play in the SCFL it was going to be a massive step, but a step I knew we could handle. We learnt quickly, we had too, and to be honest looking back on the first season I don’t have one regret.

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“We know that we have only just reached this level, but are working hard to make sure that we have things in place on and off the pitch, to be a sustainable and stable club.

“The one sad decision was to ask Tom Millar to step down recently; it was felt we needed to set the club up for the next few years with possibly a younger fresh approach. It goes without saying the club are very grateful for all the hard work put in by Tom over the past three years and his enthusiasm around the club will be missed.”

Alfold have already started pre-season training on Tuesdays and Thursdays at the club.

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