From the Dugout – 28 May

Jim Ward, pictured with Player Development Officer Mark Weatherly, new 1st Team Coach Darren Beale (far left) and Assistant Manager Tim Dixon (far right) gives a review of what is happening behind the scenes 1st Team-wise at the moment.

“Another season has ended and what a super finish we had – I fully expect to take that top form into next season.
Every successful team I have had has always stemmed from a good dressing room. Well, I think since Christmas we have found the togetherness that forges a never say die attitude.”

2011/12 Squad Developments

“Richard Lawson, Martin Able, Timmy Dixon and I have, for the last 2 weeks, been speaking to the players about next season, and both Richard and I both agree that it has been the most straight forward signing on session that we have ever had. Quite simply, no one at the Club wants to leave - it really shows you how much Ramsgate Football Club means to the players.

“I am currently in talks with four players (2 midfielders and 2 strikers) to be able to give us more threat in front of goal. If we can get at least 2 of these players this gives us the opportunity to wait and assess the trialists who have been invited along for pre-season training, to see if they are good enough for the Ryman League.

Pre-Season Friendlies

“The pre-season friendlies that Edward has arranged look good. Tim is also in talks with Andy Hess. about bringing down a strong Gills side.

1st Team Management

“The new structure with Timmy Dixon (Assistant Manager) and Darren Beale (Coach) looks strong to me. Tim of course played for me at Ramsgate in the double-winning side of 1999.  Timmy knows the way I operate and comes from the same school of thought at how the game of football should be played. Tim will assisst me in all aspects from discipline to travel to preparation, and generally help to take the team forward.

“Darren was coaching at the Academy at Gillingham and comes with glowing references. From what he has told me so far about his plans for pre-season training, the players will enjoy it and find it interesting.

“But of the new structure Richard Langley’s task is perhaps the most challenging (Ryman Under 21 Manager). With all these young lads in the 1st Team he has got to bring them and all the rest of our promising young stars through, making sure they have sufficient match experience at the highest level possible. I have great trust in Richard and I know he will meet the challenge head on and bring us the best possible results.

“So, ’till the next time …..

Jim Ward

p.s. Congratulations to THE LEGEND that is Lee Minchull on his promotion to the football league with AFC Wimbledon. It seems ages ago since Richard and I stood on Jackie Bakers in the wind and rain watching an overweight young lad playing –but straight away we saw the potenial in the boy and nobody is more delighted and proud that he is now playing in the football league, and on top of that he is a really nice guy–WELL DONE LEE.     JW