AFC Hornchurch - Press Release

[theofficeboy]

Following the surprise resignation of manager John Lawrence on Saturday evening, the club have moved in a considered way to seek a replacement. Emergency Board meetings were held both on Sunday and Monday to review the situation and the Board would like to go on record as thanking Mr Lawrence and his management team for their achievements this season whilst understanding Mr Lawrence’s personal reasons for departing from the club.

 

AFC Hornchurch have achieved much this season, both on and off the pitch and the initial appointment of Mr Lawrence from within the club ranks is certainly viewed as the right one for the club. To clarify matters, in February it was confirmed to the management team that the club were delighted to announce that their services were to be retained for the following season. This was to give them the confidence and time to prepare for a new campaign and in return the management team also offered their commitment. It has come therefore as much as a shock to the supporters as it has for the Board that a new manager now needs to be sought.

 

Events can and do overtake individuals from time to time, the Board recognises this and again thanks John Lawrence for those achievements on the pitch and wishes him well for the future. As disappointed as it is, the club has to move on. The squad this season has proved itself with both its talent and tenacity. It is therefore a prime objective to retain this momentum at the end of a promotion winning season and the appointment of a new manager needs careful consideration. The Board have spoken to both the first team and Capital League squads, the latter of which will continue to be managed by Asa Pamplin with support from Danny Gill and all players without exception have been retained for pre-season training.

 

AFC Hornchurch will be competing in a Level 4 league first division next season. Commensurate with the competitive spirit prevalent throughout past seasons’ it is the clubs intention to seek as a minimum achievement a promotion play-off position and hopefully a return to the Ryman Premier Division.

 

 

Jon Smith

Managing Director

AFC Hornchurch