COLWYN BAY Academy Director Matt Sampson has recruited former Flint Town coach Steve Giblin as manager of the Under-19s Development squad next season.
He assisted Flint manager Neil Gibson last season through the Cymru Premier last season which saw them finish in the top four behind champions The New Saints.
Steve is also an A Licence Coach.
Matt commented: “I am delighted to welcome Ste to the Academy set-up. He will bring with him senior experience which will highly benefit our Under-19s, of which we are looking to produce the best opportunity and chance for them to succeed.
“Success for us isn’t about winning the league, but creating longer, wider vision goals which means First Team opportunities, such as Macsen Rhys-Williams, who made seven Cymru North appearances last season (plus seven games as an unused substitute) and scored his first senior goal in the away win at Llanidloes. Aled Beardmore and Geraint Thomas both made first team match day squads on the subs bench.
“Everyone in the squad also had a chance to be involved in first team training opportunities last season.
“Ste will be assisted by Chris Allen. I bought Chris in at the back end of last season to work alongside the then Under-16s coaches Paul Adams and Ant Wilkinson who did a sterling job with the group. Chris’s addition allowed some continuity leading to this season, and he has been excellent in taking the lead and implementation of ideas ready for pre-season, along with leading the recruitment for that age group over the summer.
“I feel we have a strong group of players who are willing to work hard for the new management team, and with the managements team skillset, partnership and commitment, the season for this group of players will be very exciting indeed.”
Steve Giblin commented: “These are exciting times for the football club, who have given clear intent on where it wants, and should be, within Welsh football.
“Having spoken to Matt (Sampson) and Chris (Allen) it was clear that our philosophies and principles in developing young players align, so this was an easy decision to make and I’m really excited for the season ahead.
“Our primary focus will be on providing a pathway to develop players towards first team level, something that I’ve been lucky enough to be part of at previous clubs.”
Chris Allen added: “I would like to welcome Steve to our Under-19s for the season ahead.
“Steve will help myself with the development of our players using his knowledge and experience. I am looking forward to working alongside him for the benefit of the group.
“We under performed in the U19s and U16s last season and our target is to make every game competitive.
“Steve’s appointment will help with this objective as we strive to play exciting and intense football, and create an enjoyable learning environment for our players.”
