AFC R&D are pleased to announce that Assistant Manager Andy Peaks will take over the running of the AFC R&D Under 18s side, effective the first week of March 2014.
With current Under 18s Manager Mark Walsh forced to step aside due to personal commitments, Peaks will slot straight into his role. Under 18s Assistant Manager Marcin Klima will continue his work with the team as Andy’s assistant.
AFC R&D Chairman Ralph Burditt said: “I am delighted that Andy is able to give up the time to take on the Under 18s. When Mark first told me that he would be forced to step down, I was immediately concerned about where we would be able to find someone of sufficient quality to replace him. The fact that we’ve been able to fill the role internally is fantastic and I know that Andy will bring the stability and professionalism that the team needs to finish the season well.”
Whilst Walsh will be stepping down from this particular role, it is thought that this will not be the end of his association with AFC R&D. Commenting on this, Burditt added: “Walshy is a fantastic coach and has some great ideas – everyone says so, Starms, Peaksey and Deano [U21s manager Dean Thomas] included. As a club we’d be mad to lose someone of his calibre completely if we don’t have to. I can’t give any specifics yet, but I’ve spoken to Mark about a number of ways in which he could contribute to AFC R&D next season. He likes being involved here and is keen to sort something out for the future also, so I’m hopeful that we haven’t seen the last of him.”
AFC R&D would like to thank Mark for his contribution to the club over the past 2 seasons and to wish Andy all the best in his new role.
