In light of the recent public commentary and speculation, we would like to provide further details relating to this week’s departure of Scott Harris as manager of Walton & Hersham FC.
Earlier this season, Scott tendered his resignation as First Team Manager to the board. This came as a complete shock, and was unanimously rejected by the board for two reasons: Firstly, we owed it to Scott to stand firmly by him during a difficult period, and secondly, felt that he was entitled to depart the club under more favourable circumstances – with the chance to receive a send-off befitting his outstanding achievements at W&H.
With the help of First Team Head Coach Billy Rowley, Scott reversed his decision to step away from the club, to the great relief of the board. We re-iterated that the only expectation was to establish ourselves in the Southern League, and to lay the foundations for seasons to come – something that has been achieved with great success this season.
As proud stewards of this great club, we are committed to its continued long-term success. With the core aim of establishing ourselves in the Southern League clearly achieved, we recently undertook a comprehensive review of how the club operates. We concluded that significant changes were needed in respect to footballing operations, and consequently came to the immensely difficult decision to part ways with Scott, effective following the conclusion of the 23/24 season.
This decision was communicated to Scott on Monday evening, with the club strongly wanting him to see out the season as manager and receive a richly-deserved send-off. Regretfully, Scott departed the club with immediate effect, and his decision to do so is one we completely understand and respect.
We can confirm that First Team Head Coach Billy Rowley will lead the side through until the end of the season, supported by First Team Coach Darren Simpson.
We hope to make a full announcement regarding the future First Team management following the conclusion of this season.
Sartej, Christopher, and Calogero will all be present at Saturday’s game at home to Sholing, and will be available in the bar after the game to chat with supporters for as long as required, in regard to the future direction of the club.
We reiterate the debt of gratitude owed to Scott for his contribution to the club since 2020, and wholeheartedly wish him the very best in his future endeavours. Whilst we regret that our time together came to an end under such circumstances, it does not detract from the unprecedented success achieved working with one another, producing achievements that will remain in the history books forever.
Scott, thank you so much for everything. Please don’t be a stranger.
We urge everyone connected with the club to get behind Billy, Darren, and the boys this weekend, as we seek to end the season on the strongest possible note, and continue building for the future.
