After extensive in-house discussions the Institute Board and our Head Coach, Brian Donaghey, have mutually agreed that Brian will step down as Head Coach with immediate effect.
Brian has been an integral part of the club for nearly two seasons, helping ensure our Championship survival last season, and contributing to the ongoing development of the first team squad, especially our younger players.
However, after careful consideration, both parties have come to the conclusion that it is now time for a change.
Brian has consistently displayed a love for the club, a commitment to our values and objectives, and and a genuine concern for players. All in keeping with the strong moral compass and sense of integrity that made him an appropriate fit for our club in the first place.
Unfortunately, for a number of reasons, first team performances and results since January have not reflected, or built on, the clear potential shown in the first half of the season.
Whilst it is difficult to identify the specific reason or reasons for that, both Brian and the Board agree that a change of leadership could help facilitate a much needed improvement on recent first team performances.
The Institute Board would like to thank Brian for his dedication and hard work over the course of his tenure as Head Coach. We wish him a well deserved sabbatical, and we wish to make it clear that he will always be part of the ‘Stute Family’.
The club will begin the process of identifying and appointing a new head coach in due course. In the meantime, Eddie Seydak will assume the role of Head Coach until the end of this season.