Mark Woodhouse and Ian Potts have been appointed joint managers of Cowes Sports FC.
Mark was formerly assistant manager to Max Draper. Before taking a managerial role at Cowes, he was assistant manager to Paul Haward at Shanklin FC.
Cowes Sports stalwart Ian Potts – known by many as ‘Mr Cowes Sports’ – was appointed interim manager at the club following the departure of Max Draper, a familiar position which he has held after the resignation of previous former managers.
When asked whether he’d like the job on a permanent basis after Saturday’s win over Blackfield & Langley, Ian told Island Echo:
“I’d never say never.”
There had been speculation that East Cowes Vics manager Alex Smith was linked with the managerial vacancy. However, Alex has expressed his firm commitment to the Yachtsmen’s promotion chasing rivals on the opposite bank of the Medina.
Cowes Sports have said:
“After reviewing the applications for the vacant First Team Manager position, and having reviewed the last few weeks in regards to club environment and performances, a decision has been made that both Ian Potts and Mark Woodhouse have been selected to become JOINT First Team Managers of Cowes Sports FC.
Article continues below this advertisement “We want to thank all of those who have applied, and for everyone who has been patient during this transition within the club.”
Ian Potts told Island Echo:
“Myself and Mark are pleased we have been given this opportunity and are looking forward to carrying on working with the current coaching team and players, which we started in the last month.
“It’s a great club, and we are looking forward to leading it onwards and upwards. It’s a proud moment for us both.”
Mark Woodhouse commented:
“As a management group and backroom staff, we are looking to build on what has already been put in place. We understand the magnitude of the task ahead and we will look to get the best out of the squad as we possibly can.
“Ian and I will look to work closely together to ensure the club can reach its potential, but we appreciate this will take hard work as the league is hugely competitive.
“I’m lucky to have built a strong relationship with the players and look forward to continuing this. We hope that hard work and togetherness will deliver some important results.”
