Liam SCHOFIELD

As this is our final home programme for the season I should start with a list of thank yous. It has been a long and at times demanding season for our quite small volunteer administrative base so thanks to our management committee of Phil Wheatley (club captain), Rory Noorland (treasurer), Steve Williams, Bruce Holloway, Antonia Timings, Seamus Marten, Wytse Bouma, Scott Clark, Ian Richards and especially our new hard working secretary Pete Lawrence, who has come on board at the deep end. Also to commercial-manager-at-large Steve Owens, and to patron Jamie Strange. Beyond those already mentioned who have played dual roles, I would acknowledge the input of strategic advisory group members Mark Watson, Lance Bauerfiend, Paul Collins, Rob Dol and Ian McGrath.

Also to Andrea Timings for her work in bringing the 50th jubilee celebrations together. Sam Wilkinson will be stepping down as first team coach and technical director at the conclusion of the season and we need to acknowledge that he has now become the second longest-serving Melville coach in our history and a character of great respect within the football world.

Thanks also to assistant first team coach and academy manager Harry Trethowan, who will soon be leaving for Christchurch, where his wife Morgan now has employment. There is no finer tribute than to say Harry has made us think differently about Plymouth Argyle. Reserve team coach Zeya Hussaini has also signaled work commitments will prevent him from coaching next season and we thank him for his input. Regardless of what happens in our final two national league matches, this has been a season to remember. I recall at the start of the season, some committee members expressing concern that we stood in danger of northern premier league relegation in relying on so many U20 players and a dearth of experience in our first team squad. Instead we have seen player growth, team spirit and astute coaching take us not only back into national league ranks, but also to the cusp of sitting in the top four nationally, and largely with players from our own backyard. That is quite an achievement and a tribute to all those involved.

Finally we have our AGM at 2pm on Sunday in the clubrooms and with several changes to the constitution being proposed I would encourage all club members and intending members to attend.