We are pleased to announce that Niall Thompson has taken on a new role at the club and will work more closely with the backroom team at The Peacocks as Player and Fitness Coach.
As preparations continue to gather pace behind the scenes, with an exciting pre-season campaign lined up featuring home matches against Weston-super-Mare, Tiverton Town, and Truro City, player welfare and maintaining fitness throughout the summer will be key as we prepare for an exciting Southern League Premier South campaign.
Last season, Niall had his own struggles with injury, but drawing on his experience in this field, along with the support of the club’s medical department, his return from injury proved crucial. He played a massive part in helping The Peacocks retain their Step 3 status.
Speaking to the club, we hear from Gary Johnson, Lloyd Irish, and Niall Thompson:
Gary Johnson, First-Team Manager:
“I’m delighted that Niall has agreed to take on the role of Player and Fitness Coach for next season.
“I’ve worked with Niall in this position previously at Torquay United, and he is the best person to keep the fitness levels of the squad high. His experience in this field is second to none.
“At 32 years of age, his playing days, however, are far from over, especially after a very good 2025/26 season.”
Lloyd Irish, Head of Football:
“It’s great to have a player who can, and is willing to, take on this responsibility. Niall has worked with Gary before in this role, which is a positive, and he’s a well-respected and experienced player within the dressing room. I have no doubt that Niall will thrive.
“He was so reliable on the pitch with his performances last season and played a huge part in turning our season around. He’s made himself a key member of the team, and now we look forward to seeing what he can contribute in his new role.”
Niall Thompson, Player and Fitness Coach:
“I was delighted when the gaffer asked me to take on this additional role to support the team and the club. It’s a role I have done before while working with the gaffer at Torquay United, and I thoroughly enjoyed it.
“Personally, after picking up an injury early in the season, I took the opportunity to reassess and evolve my approach to my own strength and conditioning. It gave me the chance to make some important changes to how I trained, recovered, and prepared, and I feel those adjustments played a big part in helping me return stronger. I’m sure the fans could see that I finished the season in good form.
“That experience reinforced the importance of continually learning and adapting, and I’m looking forward to bringing those lessons into next season. I’m excited to support the club as Fitness Coach while continuing to contribute on the pitch as a player.”