Non League Yorkshire

The great Parry era ends at Pontefract

Craig Parry (centre) and his assistants Craig Rouse (left) and Luke Jeffs (right) guided Pontefract Collieries to unprecedented success

Craig Parry and his assistant Craig Rouse have ended their hugely successful period in charge of Pontefract Collieries to take over at Worksop Town.

The pair guided the Colls to two successive unprecedented promotions and onto the cusp of promotion to the NPL Premier Division over four years.

The era will go down as the greatest in the club’s history.

The pair said: “After a brilliant and unimaginable four years, the time for us to move on has arrived. 

“Things have moved pretty quickly over the last few days after an approach was made to Pontefract. As you can imagine the decision has been a tough one for us both.

“While we had aspirations to take the club up the Non League ladder we could never have imagined how quickly it would happen and we’ll forever be in-debt to Trevor (Waddington) for giving us the chance to manage the club and for sticking by us when times weren’t always as rosy. As chairman’s go he’s up there with the best and we’ve loved every single minute of representing his club just as we did when we were playing. 

“Entering the job as relative unknowns in terms of management we leave the club with memories that will last forever. There’s been numerous games throughout the 4 years that stand out in our memory. We will never forget the celebrations at Worsbrough and Maltby after both promotions were confirmed. To see us all celebrating together with our children and families on the pitch made every bit of hard work worthwhile for us all. That success wouldn’t have been possible without the support of everyone connected with the club whether that’s volunteers, supporters or parents who’ve travelled far and wide to watch us. I’d like to think we’ll get the chance to thank you all personally but if we don’t then rest assured we are grateful for the effort and time you had for us. 

“Special mentions go to Steve, Mark, Tina, Phil, John'(s) and Frank, your support will never be forgotten and if every club had people like you behind the scenes then non league would be a better place. We’ve met people that we consider friends for life and we hope those relationships can continue for many years. 

“The club have been brilliant with us from start to finish but we felt it was the right time to take on a new challenge. We will keep an eye on the club from afar and we sincerely hope we can continue to see things go from strength to strength on and off the field. 

“Finally thank you to all the players who’ve played for the club during our 4 years in charge. You’ve been an absolute pleasure to work with and without you none of the success would have been possible. You’ve all contributed hugely and together we made history.

“Hopefully you’ve all enjoyed the last few years as much as we have”.

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