Matt Heath is the player/assistant manager of Tadcaster Albion
Becoming Billy Miller’s assistant manager at Tadcaster Albion was an opportunity too good to turn down, Matt Heath says.
The former Leeds United and Leicester City defender has been in the post for nearly two months and has combined the role with his playing duties.
Heath replaced Mike Morton and has played in all but one match since his appointment – one that he felt he could not refuse.
“It was offered to me at Askham Bryan over the marking of an assignment,” he quipped.
“It has opened up a lot for me and it is the next step on the ladder.
“I enjoyed the Barton game on the side-lines as much as I do when I’m playing. I got the same sort of buzz.
“Coaching was something I didn’t want to do in my late-twenties, but I definitely do now. I feel it is the natural step to take.
“When Billy offered me the role, I had a chat with the missus and she gave me some good advice.
“It was a no-brainer to take it and the right time to.”
Matt Heath with Billy Miller after winning the players’ player of the year award at Harrogate Railway. Photo: Caught Light Photography
Miller and Heath have known each other for over a year as the pair work together at Askham Bryan College in York along with new Shaw Lane Aquaforce winger Rob Youhill.
Miller is the Sports and Public Services head honcho, while Heath is a part-time tutor.
Heath, who played under Miller at Harrogate Railway last season, has a great relationship with him and he added: “We’re with each other nearly every day.
“We don’t even need to ring each other up, all we have to do is turn our chairs.”
Heath was expected to feature only occasionally on the field for Tadcaster when he elevated to his assistant manager position.
That plan only worked for one game – the 4-3 defeat at Barton Town Old Boys – but Heath does realise that he has to leave his assistant manager ‘hat’ in the changing room if he is playing.
“Initially Billy said that I might have to stop playing as much and it is a fair comment,” he said.
“We have chatted about this and I have found it hard to give my opinion. I can’t stand up at half-time and tell anyone off because I’m on the pitch as well.
“When I’m on the pitch I’m just a player. I talk all the time on the pitch anyway. I try and organise whatever title I have.
“I’m just going to keep playing, there’s no long-term plan. I’m taking it game-by-game.”