Adams quits Crockenhill

Wednesday 17th June 2009

CROCKENHILL would like to clarify the current situation with regards to John Adams’ resignation as manager of the Vandanel Kent County Division One West club, writes Stephen McCartney.

Crockenhill insist veteran Adams’ resignation had nothing to do with finishing their 24-match campaign in the bottom five - but because of comments made on internet fans’ forums.

Meanwhile, the Wested club have extended their deadline for applications to this weekend as they look for Adams’ successor to bring the good times back to the former Kent League club.

And a club statement, issued to www.kentishfootball.co.uk tonight, explained why the former Erith Town and Sevenoaks Town boss had quit the club after three difficult years in charge.

“Following recent events where unfounded rumours and comments were entered on to the Kent County League Forum, John felt that he had no other option than to resign from his post,” said the statement.

“The committee held an emergency meeting on Monday 19th May 2009 to discuss the situation and reluctantly agreed to accept John’s resignation.

“Our decision was not just based on results over recent seasons but on the fact that vicious rumours were circulating the Web regarding John’s position which was causing him great distress.

“We would like to put on record that the Committee have great respect for John’s ability in management which is second to none and fully appreciate the immense work that he has contributed behind the scenes.

“John has been absolutely brilliant in attending youth matches throughout the season where his experience and advice have been truly valued with everyone involved at the club.

“There is an investigation currently under way at the club to identify the perpetrators of the messages posted on the forums where those concerned will be immediately banned from any participation with the Club.

“The Club will not tolerate any such behaviour and as a committee, sincerely apologises for any inconvenience and embarrassment caused to John Adams.

“John Adams has been a great ambassador for this club which we hugely appreciate and hope that he will take up our offer of being involved with the management committee as General Manager which is a role we hope to establish with John’s full involvement.

“We have discussed the situation with John and made him fully aware that he has the committee’s full support in terms of his involvement with the club’s future.

“On a final note we would like to thank John for his immense contribution to the club over the past 3 seasons where he has totally changed the playing environment from being a Player Power situation to a much more Managerial controlled changing room.

“Unfortunately, results have suffered during this transition period but feel this as being part of the process. The club are adamant that the culture of Players being in control will not return and thanks to John’s efforts in eradicating this form of negative activity we can hopefully move forward to greater success.”

The club have confirmed that “a number of candidates already applied,” and that the closing date is this Friday, 19th June, although any received during the weekend may be acceptable.

Applications should be sent to club secretary Jayne Martin at Jayne.martin12@live.co.uk .

Alternatively further information can be obtained by contacting Crockenhill’s chairman Steve Cullen on 07702 886 966 or by email Steve.Cullen@virgin.net .

Interviews should be contacted over the next few weeks.

Please mention that you read this article on www.kentishfootball.co.uk when contacting the club.

Visit Crockenhill’s website: www.crockenhillfc.co.uk