Slaughter and Dollner take over the Magpies' reins

The club say that after an extensive and thorough recruitment process, the position of first team Manager has been offered to and accepted by Spencer Slaughter. He takes on the role with immediate effect and will be assisted by Paul Dollner.

The pair replace interim manager Mark Courtney, who will continue as an important committee member within the club.

Loxwood had a tough season and were 11 points adrift at the bottom of the SCFL: premier when football was suspended and the season written off. As such they are one of the teams to benefit from the decision to expunge 2019-20's results and start again next season with sides in the same divisions.

​Delighted Slaughter said, "I’m absolutely over the moon that Loxwood FC have given myself and Paul this opportunity. I’ve been thinking about stepping in to management for some time now, and I know Paul is chomping at the bit to get back into the game.

"I’m looking forward to working alongside and learning from Paul. Having him alongside me is a massive plus, not only for me, but for the club too. Paul's experience in football is fantastic and having worked under him at Burgess Hill I know his training sessions are brilliant.

"His knowledge of youth football is phenomenal too. Of course I still have a lot to learn, this is my first managerial role. But with 16 years of county and Ryman football experience behind me and having played under and learnt from some top managers and coaches in that time, I think I have the credentials to become a top manager.

"We can't wait to make a start and get this great club moving in the right direction with a new chapter. I hope all the fans, members and locals can get behind the team and back us all the way. I can’t wait for this strange time we are all going through to be over so we can all get back down The Nest and get back to work.

"In the meantime all stay home, stay safe and we can’t wait to see you down The Nest to cheer on the Pies next season. "

Dollner added: "I am excited to join Spen and be part of the team at Loxwood FC. When he approached me to join forces with him in applying for this job I didn’t have to think twice and we are both pleased to be given this opportunity.

"Spen knows the club very well and I know Spen very well and we feel we can make a big difference at Loxwood and also with the players we have and with those players we want to bring in. Having been out of football myself for a while, I now appreciate more than ever how important the football club and especially Loxwood FC is within the community.

"I’ve been lucky enough to work with some excellent players and some highly skilled coaches and managers. I’ve taken a little bit from everyone along the way and I can see a lot of positive skills and ability in Spen and knowing his character as I do it will be an infectious and focused approach to managing the football at Loxwood FC.

"We want everyone to get behind the squad, get behind the club and support our ideas and it’s 'onward & upward' once we are able to get going!"

​Mark Lacey, club chairman, said: ""After having such a plethora of high quality applicants for our vacancy it is fantastic to be able to announce Spencer and Paul as our first team management team.

"I'm sure they will be a force to reckon with given the experience they have between them. I'd also like to say a huge thank-you to Mark Courtney who has done a superb job holding the reigns for a while and delighted he will continue with the club on the committee."

The club thanked the many that took the time to apply for the vacancy, especially the good number that attended interviews. A spokesman said: "Loxwood FC are truly humbled by the regard in which the club is held and we wish all of you that applied the very best in whatever role is next for you."

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