Tributes paid to former 1st Team Manager

We are very sad to report that Dave Wadd, one of the most successful managers in Penzance Football Club’s history, passed away on Tuesday 9th June.

A strong "wing half" in his playing days, representing the Magpies as well as the Cornwall County team on a regular basis, he became manager at Penlee Park in the late 1960s. Dave was in charge of the hugely successful Magpies side of the early 1970s, steering the club to Cornwall Senior Cup success in 1973 and the South Western League championship two years later. In fact in 1975, only a surprise defeat at the hands of Saltash United at Newquay deprived Penzance of an historic League and Senior Cup double. He remained at the helm until the 1980s, memorably securing a second Senior Cup in 1981.

A police officer by profession, Dave was a renowned disciplinarian. “When I was young, a group of us were hanging around in Ludgvan where he was our village policeman, and he came along and gave us a clip around the ear,” recalls Billy Jacka, now Head Groundsman at Penzance. “I said ‘what was that for - we haven't done anything,’ and his reply was ‘no - but you will later.” His approach to training sessions was no less harsh, with prominent signings known to have moved on, unable to cope with the rigour.

“Dave was a fitness fanatic and demanded a high level of fitness from the players,” agrees John Mead, a member of his 1973 and 1975 trophy winning teams. “He was certainly a great manager and tactician. 45 minute team talks in the changing room before each game were the norm. He must have had a football fan as an Inspector, as Dave was always available for games! He ended up as the Court Officer, nine to five, Monday to Friday - normally a Sergeant's job.”

Ron Vercesi, who also played in Dave’s successful sides, visited his ex-manager in hospital back in February. He adds: “Dave’s attention to detail, fitness levels and his researching of opposition strengths and weaknesses gave the team invaluable insights for match days. His relentless training and fitness levels produced real results, winning many major trophies over the years he was in charge.”

Everyone at Penlee Park sends deepest condolences to wife Kim and all the family.

The late Dave Wadd