Toolstation NCEL Premier Division
Graham Nicholas has stood down as manager of Parkgate after a period of reflection
Graham Nicholas has called time on his tenure as manager of Parkgate to spend more time with his family.
Nicholas has been taking a “break” from the role for the past two weeks, leaving Ross Shelton in charge. After a period of reflection, the former Nostell Miners Welfare and Ossett Town manager believes it is the right time for Parkgate to seek a change in leadership.
His final game at the helm was the defeat to, ironically, his former club Garforth Town. He will be remembered at Roundwood for steering the club to safety last season.
“I have thoroughly enjoyed my time at Parkgate FC and I would like to say a special thank you to both (chairman) Albert Dudill and (secretary) Bruce Bickerdike,” Nicholas said in a statement.
“Both have been very honest and extremely supportive. They have always been on hand to listen, offer support and show belief and confidence in me.
“When I was appointed last year, I was faced with a difficult task in keeping the club in the Premier Division.
“However, I have always had an excellent cohort of players whom I have relied on so when they agreed to sign I knew I would have the personal and quality to help me make an impact and a real difference. I was absolutely delighted to keep them up.
“To lose so many players has hurt and a lot of time and energy is always spent on player recruitment.
“I have felt frustrated in not being able to coach players. When you have players playing Saturday and then Sunday it affects you because they don’t want to train because they want to rest in preparation for a midweek game.
“At times, this is very difficult for me to manage as I don’t believe I am putting my qualities to best of use. I would like to add that both Albert and Bruce has always made the pitch readily available for training as well as spending for facilities during the winter months. They really have been fantastic to work under.
“I initially made the decision to take a break and concentrate on spending more time with my family, work and then see how I felt.
“During that time, I feel several changes have been made in terms of players leaving and player recruitment which has ultimately made it difficult to return.
“Both Albert and I agreed that a fresh face and approach is needed in the best interest of Parkgate Football Club. Although I am sad to be leaving, I am now looking forward to spending quality time with my family.”