…his thoughts on becoming manager:
I'm absolutely delighted to take on the role of First Team Manager this season. I've been involved with the club for over 25 years as a player and part of the management team, and after four consecutive titles with the Vets, I felt the time was right to help build a winning team for the future of Hawarden Rangers and the senior section.

…the coaching team he’s assembled:
I'm really pleased with the coaching team we've put together. Rich Evans and David Walkiewicz were both involved last season and bring real stability and passion to the group. Dom Auty is one of the best young coaches around, with great experience both as a player and through his work at Hawarden and the Connah’s Quay Nomads academy. This is a coaching team with Hawarden at its heart and a clear plan for the future.

…pre-season so far:
Pre-season has gone well. The lads have worked hard and are eager to get going now. We've kept the core of last season’s squad and added some exciting new faces too.

…the squad:
We’ve retained key players like Ellis, Robbo, Jed, Beachy, Lewis, Louis, Linny, Matty, Jay-Jay and Joe to name but a few. There’s also a talented group of younger players coming through from the U19s – Callum, Haydn, Charlie, Riley, Will and Nath – who will play big roles this season.

We’ve welcomed back real quality too. Tom Gunson will be a handful up front, George Thomas, Jamie Evans and Luke Blizard bring great experience at the back, and Tom Bridges and Iwan Jones offer real composure and quality on the ball in attacking positions.

…this season’s targets:
Our aim is to build a hardworking, exciting side that’s tough to beat. We want to push on, develop as a group and challenge for silverware. A strong start could set the tone for the season.

…Saturday’s opponents:
From what we know about Llanilar; we understand they’re a young and hungry side who’ll bring strong support with them. We’re looking forward to getting into competitive action and hopefully starting a good cup run.

…his final thoughts?
It’s been a really busy pre-season getting the squad together, so a big thank you to the committee and my coaching team for all their hard work behind the scenes. We’re ready now – and we can’t wait to get started.

The First Team welcome Llanilar FC to The Gladstone on Saturday afternoon in the JD Welsh Cup First Qualifying Round - Kick off 14:00.

We look forward to your ever valued support!

#DontBeAStranger