Ashley Waters is stepping down from his role as First Team Manager, and goes with the thanks of everyone at Penzance AFC. The job was Ashley's first in men's football management and he had a difficult task when taking over from John MacCallum and Adrian Ferrell, to whom he had served as Head Coach, in 2023. Things were already on an upward trajectory under MaCallum and Ferrell with performances and results having improved dramatically in 2022-23, so expectancy was already high and pressure on Ashley to keep things moving in the right direction.
This Ashley did in spectacular fashion with Penzance enjoying a highest finish and points tally in thirteen years as well as reaching the Quarter-Finals of the Cornwall Senior Cup for a second consecutive season. This was achieved without a playing budget and whilst introducing a string of highly talented local teenagers into the First Team. Furthermore, Penzance's attractive brand of possession-based passing football won the plaudits of all observers and contributed to the club enjoying the fourth highest attendances in the division. So Ashley can look back on his time at the club with pride in the knowledge he will be always welcome back at Penlee Park.
Ashley Waters.
In a statement to the club, Ashley said, "It's with a heavy heart, I have decided to step down as the manager of Penzance AFC.
I have to thank Godfrey Adams and the club, for giving me the opportunity to manage this special club. It's been an honour and I have made so many friends here.
I can leave feeling proud that the team achieved its highest points tally and league position in 13 years last season, with many young players being given the opportunity to play for the 1st Team. Targets were set, and the team exceeded all of them. The players have been magnificent and a credit to Penzance AFC.
On a personal level, last years effort was huge! Many hours were spent at training and match days, and many conversations were held throughout the weeks as well as having to plan training sessions.
I'm now taking a break to recharge the batteries, and I'm sure I will be back somewhere in management in the future.
I'd like to thank everyone at the club, with a special mention to Craig 'Nics' Nicholls, Matt James, and Tyler Tonkin who have been supportive throughout my time at the club.
I would also like to thank the supporters who have been a massive part of my time here, and to Antony 'Motty' Thomas for his efforts on match days.
Good luck to whoever takes over the reigns, but along with Matt James, the club will be in great hands.
Thanks, Ash."
Ashley will be replaced as First Team Manager by senior player Mark Vercesi who needs no introduction to the Cornish football fraternity.
Thank you again Ashley, and good luck from all at Penzance.
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