Sampson Retirement: Sampson vows to return to Kent football management

TOMMY SAMPSON has vowed to return to football management here in Kent, despite announcing his retirement yesterday morning, writes Stephen McCartney.

The popular Maidstone based manager suffered a stroke in December 2007 and subsequently spent many months in hospital.

He officially announced his retirement inside Redhill’s match day programme yesterday for the Surrey club’s pre-season friendly against Reigate Priory.

Sampson became the first manager of a Kent non-league club to win at Wembley Stadium, when, in May 2000 his Deal Town side defeated Chippenham Town 1-0 to win the FA Carlsberg Vase underneath the Twin Towers.

He has also managed Kent sides Tonbridge Angels, Herne Bay, Ashford Town and Dartford, and was the Horsham YMCA assistant manager which played against the Darts when Princes Park Stadium staged its first ever match in November 2006.

Sampson left an emotional voicemail message with www.kentishfootball.co.uk at 6:28pm yesterday, informing us of his decision, and issued a statement this morning.

“It is with regret that I have to announce my retirement from non-league football for the foreseeable future,” said Sampson.

“I suffered a stroke in December 2007 and subsequently spent many months in hospital. After taking into consideration advice from my physio and consultants, I have to put all my energies in my recovery with the least distraction possible.

“I still have in front of me a huge challenge to gain full health and with that in mind I reluctantly have had to reach the decision to retire from football management.

“My health and my family must take priority now and it is with a heavy heart that I have come to the decision, without doubt the most difficult so far of my football career.”

Sampson, who has also managed Boreham Wood, will be best remembered for his success in the Kent League with both Herne Bay and Deal Town.

“I am very fortunate to have some fantastic memories to fall back on in management; three Kent League titles, three domestic cup successes and of course, the unforgettable triumph of Wembley in May 2000, these will help soften the blow,” reflected Sampson.

“I will remain an ardent supporter of Kent non-league football and I hope one day to be able to resume a post somewhere in the county.

“I have made many friends over the years in football, and my thanks once again to those that have sent cards, messages and offered their support through this difficult journey.

“I wish you much success in the news season and hope to visit some of you over the next nine months.”

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