ronan fagan
A semblance of shock resonated within local and national sporting circles late last week upon the decision taken by Athlone Town senior ladies team manager, Tommy Hewitt, to step down from his role.
In his fourth year at the helm, Hewitt was hugely instrumental in the development and growth of the senior ladies team, such progress resulting in a second place league finish and the securing of a FAI Cup final berth in 2022.
Speaking to the Athlone Advertiser this week, Hewitt reflected upon his time in the role noting that the team was now in a stronger position than when he first took control four seasons previously.
“While I am disappointed to have taken this decision, upon reflection I can only think positively on my time working with this team and progressing the players to a level where they were competing for national titles last season.
“It takes time to build a team of players which can contend for honours and ultimately, despite not achieving silverware in 2022, it was a season to remember,” Hewitt stated.
Silverware was realised at the start of this season when Hewitt’s charges lifted the inaugural President’s Cup, defeating Shelbourne in the opening fixture of this campaign.
“That was a superb occasion, one which will live long in the memory and a just reward for the collective efforts of the players and management involved. The result achieved in the President’s Cup fixture was the culmination of a belief that had become instilled in the group. There was always a great ‘buy in’ to the process within our group so that relationship with the management was always strong and allowed the players to flourish,” Hewitt continued.
Noting his standout experiences as manager, Hewitt referenced the victory over Wexford in the FAI Cup semi-final, a result which saw Athlone Town secure a berth in the final of the ‘blue riband’ competition for the first time in over a century.
“That was a special moment for the management and players and despite not being successful in the final, it showed the progress which had been made with this group of players,” Hewitt remarked.
Despite results not being as positive this season, Hewitt is of the belief that a core group of players remain at the club and will continue to give of their best for Athlone Town.
“My philosophy has always been to develop the players with whom you are working so, both individually and collectively, they are in a stronger position. I firmly believe that I have done that and wish the players every success for the remainder of the season,” Hewitt said.
The 2022 manager of the year will now take deserved time out to spend with his family before making a decision pertaining to his next managerial adventure.
“I have received so much support from my wife Sinead and family members these past number of years, so I am looking forward to some time out while I assess what the future holds. The amount of supportive calls I have received since the announcement has been phenomenal so I will reflect on the experience before making a firm decision on my future in due course,” Hewitt concluded.
