Managers Programme Notes - Chessington & Hook

Welcome to our last home game of the season. On reflection I'd have to say ithas overall been a successful season. When I was interviewed for the Managers job I was asked what my ambition for the season was. I felt that if we finished in the top ten then that would be acceptable but top six would be the target. Well with two games to go we are right on target to achieve that finish.

The reason for this target being met is down to the hard work of lots of people, not just the footballers.

At the start of the season Mario was the Chairman. Mario was always there with quiet words of encouragement but he also has a great knowledge of not only our league but of all local non-league football and recommended players who he knew had become available. For me not knowing this league that was a great help.

When Mario stepped aside Nigel combined his role of U18 Manager with taking on the Chairman's role. Nigel has done an exceptional job both with the 18's and as acting Chairman. The 18's are very well run and you only have to look at the number and quality of the players who are now regularly playing in the 1st team to see the jon he has done.

Jim Betchley has worked his socks off getting everything right on the Administration side of things. I don't think people realise just how much work there is involved in being a secretary of a football club. Thanks Jim for all your hard work.

There are lots of others who work tirelessly behind the scenes, in the kitchen, on the gate and behind the bar, cleaning dressing rooms etc, making the social arrangements, the list goes on. And who can forget BIG Dave Beckett, you cannot ignore the work he puts in to ensure that he gets in the front seat of my car for every away game, that is true dedication and I look forward to getting new suspension in the summer!!

On to the playing side, the thirds under Oz have enjoyed their season and rounded it off last week with a fancy dress event, think they should have waited until after the match though.

The reserves have had a tough season but have persevered and have picked up some creditable results of late. To the players who have hung in there all season well done. To Gilly and Rashers I know it has not been easy but you've worked through and when you could have walked away. Well done also.

The first team have worked hard and been prepared to listen accept the team selections and tactics I have made for each match, even when I have got it wrong. Thanks to them. I'd like to thanks one player especially, my skipper Tony Jupp. Juppy has been everything a manager would want in a skipper. He not only leads the players both on and off the park. But he has helped me greatly on coming to a new club to feel part of the set up from day one. I really appreciate that.

Dave Roffey has been a rock. He knows Horley inside out he knows the league and he has helped me greatly throughout the season, and we look forward to his wedding in Turkey at the end of May.

Roger Paterson has worked with our goalkeepers all season and is also a great help on matchdays, thanks Rog.

We have already started looking towards next season both on the playing front but also to improve the backroom especially the coaching. Darren Maiden is a highly qualified coach who has been working with the club on Thursday's for about 4 months. I'm sure you've noticed the improvements in our play over that period. I'm delighted to say Darren will be with us permanently next season. I look forward to working with him.

Finally thanks to you the supporters, I hope we have given you performances which have pleased you and belief that we can improve next season.

Enjoy today's game

Ali Rennie