We are delighted to confirm that former Peacock player Matt Villis has joined the club’s coaching team as preparations continue for the 2018-19 season. The 34 year old centre half was forced to retire from playing for Town at the turn of the year following persistent injury problems but because of goalkeeping coach Paul Edwards being unable to continue in the role this season due to work commitments, an opportunity has arisen for Villis to put his plentiful experience in the game gained with the likes of Torquay United and Weston-super-Mare to good use. Villis will join the existing management team of manager Leigh Robinson, assistant manager Michael Meaker, coach Rob Dray and physio Dave Lukins who will all continue in their roles for the Peacocks’ foray into Southern Premier football.
Matt commented: “It was fantastic to be asked by Leigh to join the coaching team for the new season ahead. I had some fantastic moments as a player so it’s a real privilege to stay at a club that is going from strength to strength.”
Town boss Robinson added “I’m delighted to have secured the management team again for another year and of course welcome Matt Villis to the team too. The team of myself, Meaks and Rob worked brilliantly last year and we bounce off each other so well. Matt Villis has been a big part of the club and dressing room for the last few years before retiring and he’ll bring a wealth of experience to the team. Matt’s got huge experience from the professional game, played very successfully at almost every non-league level and we really like the way he thinks about the game. He’ll have quite a varied job taking over from Paul who unfortunately has to take a step back this year due to work but we’re delighted to have Matt on board.”
We would like to thank Paul Edwards for his efforts as goalkeeping coach during his time at the club and look forward to seeing him at the Viridor Stadium when time permits.