It’s going to be a ‘whole new world’ for Shaftesbury as they prepare for life in the Pitching In Southern League Division One South.
Success in the play-offs saw them gain promotion from the Wessex League Premier Division at the end of last term and in doing so reach the highest level in the club’s history.
“I can’t wait for the challenge ahead,” manager, James Milligan told us. “My new co-manager, Pat McManus, the players, supporters and everyone connected to the club is really looking forward to this.
“It’s going to be a whole new world for us. We’ll be up against a host of new teams and we are expecting a very tough and long season against some of the talented squads in this division.
“We have started pre-season and we have been keen to stress to the players how much work we have to do in order to get something from the season.
“Like every club, I think our ambition and bar has to be set high, so for us, reaching the play offs in the first season would be a massive achievement, but at the same time, we also want everyone to come and enjoy their football without too much pressure.
“Last season covered a huge array of emotions. We started off with high expectations and one goal, which was to get promotion.
“As a club we invested quite heavily in both the club structure and player budget and it was nice to see us achieve our main objective as well as breaking a few club records along the way.
“For me it’s all about positive football and we’ll be working hard to produce a creative and attacking side at this level.
“My passion for the game is there for all to see. I love working with the players and also developing the club off-the-pitch through my other roles here.
“The season ahead will be a new challenge and a new adventure. Both Pat and I go into this season with no previous Southern league experience, but what we do bring is a combined wealth of many years in coaching and managing.
“We’re going to enjoy the experience and want to see smiles on everyone’s face around the club. Some of the players have previously played at Steps 3 and 4, so there’s no reason why we can’t aim for a place in that top five.”
We would like to welcome Shaftesbury in to the Southern League family.
IMAGE: Shaftesbury FC
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