Toolstation NCEL Premier Division
Thackley have announced the exit of their long-serving manager Paddy McGuire.
McGuire leaves two days after the 5-2 defeat at Hemsworth Miners Welfare.
His departure ends a venture that began in January 2018 and has seen him performing miracles on a shoestring.
McGuire had hoped to have a successful campaign this year as his budget had been publicly increased.
However, it has been tough and Thackley find themselves in 17th spot.
A statement said: “Thackley AFC can today confirm that the Club has parted company with Manager, Patrick McGuire.
“McGuire leaves his role having led the First Team since January 2018 when he took over the reins from Chris Reape on a joint manager basis, taking sole charge in the pre-season of the 2018/2019 season. In the 2019/2020 season, McGuire led the Dennyboys to a County Cup Semi Final and has also guided Thackley to successive League Cup Quarter Final fixtures in the last two seasons.
“McGuire was also at the helm as the Club navigated the Covid pandemic and various lockdowns, assisting the Club in ensuring the safety of all players, volunteers and supporters whilst still continuing training and taking matches when able to under government guidance.
“McGuire has been a player, Captain and Manager of Thackley AFC and has been the leader during some of the Club’s darkest days. Only with McGuire’s loyalty to the Club, and the loyalty he garnered from the First Team players during this time, was our First Team able to compete and retain our place in the NCEL Premier Division.
“Such loyalty is not something which is taken for granted at Thackley AFC and the Club’s survival in the division is a credit to McGuire and his coaching staff during his tenure. McGuire has consistently pushed the Club’s youth development programme which has led to a number of youngsters embarking upon their semi-professional careers at Thackley AFC.
“However, following a summer of optimism with a refreshed playing squad, this season has proven a struggle and the Club currently sits in 17th position in the league at the halfway stage. As a result, following discussions with the Board, McGuire has been relieved of his duties.
“Further announcements will be made in due course in relation to who will take charge of the First Team on a short-term basis to allow a full recruitment process to take place for a new permanent Manager.
“The Club wishes Patrick all the best for the future.”