Taunton Town are pleased to announce the appointment of Leigh Robinson as their new First Team manager. Robinson, 31, has previously guided Wellington to the Western League Division One title in 2008 and took Bridgwater Town to the Southern League South and West Division play-off final two years later as joint manager with Craig Laird. After a brief return to Wellington in the 2010-11 season, he has since been coaching at SW Peninsula League clubs.
Robinson replaces Paul West who was removed from the role last month and with the start of pre-season not far off , the Peacock’s new manager is eagerly anticipating taking the reins. “I am delighted to have the chance to manage Taunton Town and am really looking forward to getting started” Robinson said. “I have huge respect for the work that Paul West did at the club under difficult circumstances and hope to build on the excellent foundations that he has put in place. Having spoken to the chairman and directors at length, I have been very impressed by the ambitions of the club and the determination that they have to drive the club forward. I am confident that we are all singing off the same hymn sheet in terms of our ambitions for Taunton Town and I will be working hard to achieve this for the players, supporters and the people who run the club.”
The appointment of Robinson, who beat off several other high-calibre candidates for the role, was also welcomed by club chairman Kevin Sturmey. “I am delighted that Leigh has accepted the role as first team manager” he remarked. ” He has had success at our level, has come highly recommended by many people and has a clear outlook on how to manage in the Evo-Stik League. He impressed the board with his plans and has good contacts in the game, as well as being a decision maker who will be ruthless if necessary. I am sure the fans will warm to him as he is a very personable and approachable character.”
Preparations will now begin for the new season which kicks off on 18 August, with Robinson planning to speak to last season’s squad as soon as possible. Further discussions will also be held regarding football plans both short and long-term. Sturmey continued: ”We will be spending as much time as it takes to formulate plans to create a successful structure and fine tune our draft four year football plan as soon as possible. Leigh realises we are in the results business and building the club with the right people will increase our chances of success if everyone shares the same common goal. Running a football team or club is not a popularity contest but as long as the supporters see that our aims are consistent and structured I am sure we can increase our fan base.”
