Halesowen Town have pulled off something of a coup by securing the services of Russ Penn as manager on a long-term deal.
The former Kidderminster Harriers boss replaces Paul Smith, who moves into a strategic and advisory role at the Pitching In Southern League Premier Central club.
“This is a club that means so much to me and my family,” Penn told his club’s media. “I am a Halesowen lad and the project ahead of me here is something that I am really looking forward to getting stuck in to.
“The ambition shown by the Chairman is exciting. I am under no illusions as to how tough it will be; I think that the football pyramid in general has become a lot tougher over the past decade or so and this is a tough League with a lot of local derbies and big games.
“There are ten games left this season and I will be using them to give me a head-start for next year.
“There are high expectations here, it’s one of the biggest clubs at this level. I have come to the club to achieve and won’t accept anything less.
“We’ve won one out of the last seven games so I want to get the buzz back around the place. I’ll give the players all of the tools they need to give them the best opportunity to stay with me on this journey.
“It’s a clean slate, every player will be given the opportunity to show me what they can do and I will be observing every aspect of the club.
“This is a long-term project here and I am relishing the challenge.”
Penn, whose father, Mark, reached three FA Vase finals with the Yeltz during the 1980s, is based right on the doorstep of the club who sit tenth in what is their first season back at this level following promotion at the end of last term.
“Russ has great pedigree in both the professional and non-League game,” added Chairman, Keith McKenna. “He and his family have a strong affinity with the club and we are delighted to have been able to attract someone of his calibre.
“He is energetic and focussed on what he wants to achieve here and I am sure that he will be a great success.
“I personally look forward to working with him.”
An away game at Barwell is Penn’s first assignment as manager on Saturday.
IMAGE: Halesowen Town FC
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