Former Huddersfield Town favourite Rob Edwards is the new first-team coach at Shelley Community Football Club.
The hugely-popular 46-year-old was captain at Town and played over 200 senior matches in two spells for the John Smith’s Stadium club.
Also giving distinguished service to Crewe Alexandra and Chesterfield, Edwards played with Ossett Albion and Mossley before moving to the Huddersfield District League.
He is now taking charge at the West Yorkshire League Premier Division side, who are ambitious to progress.
Edwards – a member of Town’s 2004 play-off final winning team against Mansfield, when he scored in the shoot-out – will have help from a new-look coaching team, too.
Former Town goalkeeper Matt Glennon will be coaching all the open-age keepers, while former England international Clare Taylor is joining to help with the junior section.
Shelley CFC first team have also announced their pre-season friendlies, with the visit of AFC Emley on July 13, kicking them off.
They play Hepworth United on July 20, Penistone Church on July 25, Halifax Town Under 21s on Saturday, July 30, Barnsley Under 21s on August 3 and finally Ossett Town on August 5 (all midweek kick-offs at 7.30pm).
In line with their Community focus, Shelley are always looking for new junior players and coaches who want to enjoy some of the best facilities in the region.
Signing on days are on July 30 and 31 and August 20 and 21 (10am to 2pm).
All age and abilities from Undr 5 to Under 18 are catered for, and the club run five adult teams.
Shelley also run several disability teams and would welcome any coaches to provide mentoring and financial support through the FA’s coaching (badges where required).
Those interested in playing or coaching can contact Damo Southwell on 07935 131106 for Under 12 and below, Ash Berry on 07931 853881 for Under 13 and above and Gary Millar for the disability teams (07710 676132).
The club website is www.shelleyfc.co.uk
