STOTFOLD | TIME TO BUILD

Eddie McLoughlin is relishing the challenge ahead in his first managerial appointment

There are a number of new managers currently stepping up preparations for the campaign ahead throughout our member clubs.

One such is Eddie McLoughlin, who has taken over the reins at Pitching In Southern League Division One Central outfit, Stotfold.

After a decade in coaching following a long and successful playing career, McLoughlin now believes that the time is right to make the step up to the top job at a club where he was previously assistant manager.

“This is a fantastic opportunity for me and I am absolutely relishing the challenge,” he told us. “I’ll be stepping into a competitive and demanding division and I am excited to be able to test myself every week.

“It feels good to be back here. This is a club where I have enjoyed plenty of success as assistant manager and when the opportunity came up to return, it was a no-brainer really.

“There’s a strong foundation already in place here, on and off the pitch, and I feel that I can add to that and continue to help the club build towards the next step.

“Preparations are progressing well; we’ve been working hard behind-the-scenes to get our recruitment and structure right. Of course, there’s still work to do, but I’m pleased with the attitude and standards that we’ve seen so far from the players in pre-season.

“It certainly bodes well because, as I say, we are involved in a competitive division with a real mix of styles and some strong, well-organised opponents. The local nature of it also means that there will be a lot of games with an extra edge to them, which is great.

“I’d say that this is one of the most open Step 4 divisions in the whole country and there will be plenty of twists and turns throughout. We’ll respect every opponent, of course, but we won’t fear anyone.

“Our primary aim is to build a team that represents the club with professionalism, resilience and a real sense of identity. Results matter, of course they do, but for me, success is also about progression — developing individuals, improving the collective and creating a culture that can be sustained beyond a single season.

“That said, we want to be competitive, and we’ll be doing everything we can to finish as high up the table as possible.

“My philosophy is grounded in structure, clarity and high standards. I want my teams to be well-organised, disciplined and difficult to break down, but also to play with purpose and bravery in possession.

“I value hard work, humility and togetherness. Ultimately, it’s about creating an environment where players can thrive, know what’s expected of them and push themselves to achieve more than they thought possible.

“I’ve been lucky enough to work with some excellent teams that have enjoyed league and cup success across Steps 3 to 6 over the past decade or so. I’ve been fortunate to learn from some top people in my roles as first team coach and assistant manager and now I think it’s the right time to take the step into management.

“It’s exciting and nerve-wracking all at the same time, but I’m going to give it my all and enjoy the ride!”

Last season ended with the Bedfordshire outfit just a couple of points and a couple of places above the drop zone, so they will be eager to improve on that this time around.

IMAGE: Stotfold FC

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