We are delighted to announce that captain and defender Mark Owen is the new player-manager of our Reserves.
Mark has just led the side to third place in division one of the Stitch2Print Devon and Exeter League – they are waiting to hear if that has earned them promotion.
He takes over from Nick Buttle who stepped down – along with coach Adam Weston – after one season in charge.
Mark said: “It’s a big task and a hard job to take on especially when you are following on from the likes of Steve Trevelyan and Nick Buttle who have been superb for the team.”
“We have a great bunch of lads, a good footballing squad, great support from the town and I want to keep that going. I welcome all to training and to pre-season friendlies if they would like to get involved.
“Although this is a huge commitment for me with a busy family and work life, I believe I can develop the team with the help of my dad Mike, Tom Hawkings and the return of club legend Ken Pearson.
“I think it’s the right move for me, the team and the club as a whole because I know the squad well and how the team is run.
“Also, I’m not getting any younger and I can start playing less, coach the lads and try to develop them into a squad who can compete in the top half of the premier division while also bringing through youngsters from Joe Conway’s under 18s side.
“Thanks to the club for giving me this opportunity – I will do all I can for this team.”
Chairman Mike Hall added: “We are delighted that Mark is taking over.
“He has been an integral part of the Reserves for a number of seasons and is an extremely popular figure – both among the squad and the rest of the club.
“We’re confident he will build on the excellent work put in by Nick and Adam last season and will continue to develop this highly promising young squad.”
BELOW: Mark’s support team, from left, Mike Owen, Tom Hawkings and Ken Pearson.
