Jason Lillis returns to Lordswood for a third spell, as director of football

LORDSWOOD have appointed Jason Lillis as their new Director of Football last night.

Lillis, 53, previously managed the club between 2009 and 2013, and again between 2014 and 2015.

He oversaw arguably one of the club’s best-ever seasons in 2013 taking his side to a then highest ever league finish of fifth, a club record Fourth Round appearance in The FA Vase (losing to eventual winners Spennymoor Town) and beaten finalists in the Kent Senior Trophy.

Lillis has recently been appointed as Head of Education at Gillingham, having previously spent six years as Head of Coaching at the Priestfield Stadium club.

Towards the end of 2022 Lillis also graduated through the Premier League’s Elite Heads of Coaching programme.

“When asked if I would meet the executive committee to discuss this new role in the club, it didn’t take to long for me to agree to meet with them,” said Lillis, in a club statement.

“I have always had an excellent relationship with everyone involved with Lordswood FC and have always looked out for their results and to see in general how the club was progressing.

“Having taken on the role as Head of Education at Gillingham, it now allows me to get my teeth into a new challenge. After meeting with the executive committee and listening to their vision I accepted the offer as Director of Football and a place on the executive committee.

“My first priority is to bring in a new management team for the senior side, and to then build a solid structure, and impart a clear vision with an excellent club environment both on and off the field.

“Lordswood has a passion for boys and girls’ youth football and as a club we want to embed a community and inclusive environment where everyone is welcome to play football.

“It is important I build a youth section management committee where we can develop and show the younger players that there is a pathway to senior football and we will be committed to build onto the youth teams that are already in place. Please contact the club if you are a player or coach and would like more information.

“This is an exciting time for Lordswood and I believe we can strive to build a great competitive community club and I am excited to be leading this project.”

Richard Dimmock and his management team stepped down from their roles at the club on Monday.

Lordswood are presently sitting in 13^th place in the Southern Counties East Football League Premier Division table, with 24 points (seven wins, three draws) from their 21 games.

Visit Lordswood’s website:  www.lordswoodfc.club