Woodley United have announced their new manager following an end to Jordan Blake’s four-year spell at the club.
Blake led Woodley to the play-offs last season having previously helped the club avoid relegation on the final day of the season.
Now, the Kestrels have appointed former Wokingham Town boss Eliot Whitehouse to build on their former managers work, with General Manager Mark Rozzier keen to thank Blake for his support during the ‘hiring’ and transition process.
A statement from the Kestrels shared with Football in Berkshire said: “Woodley United is delighted to announce Eliot Whitehouse as the men’s First Team manager. Eliot brings experience of managing in the Combined Counites League and is ideal to build upon the success the team enjoyed last season finishing as play-off contenders.
“Welcome to the club.”
Whitehouse comes into Woodley with plenty of previous experience of the club having been a player and under 7s coach. And despite his last senior management role at Wokingham ending in August 2022, the new Kestrels boss has kept his hand in the game locally, turning out 15 times last season for Reading YMCA in the Thames Valley Premier League.
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Speaking about his new role, Whitehouse said: “I am delighted to be appointed as the manager of Woodley United FC. It is a fantastic club with community at its core, supported by an incredible group of dedicated volunteers, local businesses, and supporters who have helped shape the club into what it is today.
“Having previously played for the club, albeit briefly, coached a memorable under-7s team, and spent much of my childhood in Woodley, the town has always held a special place in my heart.
“Before I look ahead, I would like to place on record my thanks to everyone at Wokingham Town. My time at the club was incredibly rewarding, and I remain grateful for their support. I left the club with many great memories and wish the club every success for the future.
“Looking ahead, it is a privilege to return in this new role, and I am excited to work with the players, staff, volunteers, and supporters as we continue to build on the strong foundations already in place. I look forward to the challenges ahead and to contributing to the next chapter of Woodley United FC’s journey.”
