New Town manager is up for the challenge

MELKSHAM Town have appointment Richard Fey as their new first team manager. 

Following the shock resignation of former first team manager Kieran Baggs before the end of the season, Town were left without a manager, with Luke Ballinger stepping in for the rest of the fixtures.

However, it was announced on Thursday 2nd May that former Street FC manager, Richard Fey, will take the reigns alongside his assistant manager Nathan Rudge, also from Street FC, with Luke Ballinger becoming coach.

Talking to Melksham News, Richard said, “I have been the manager at Street FC for the past three years and came 8th in the Southern League this season, but I left recently with things a bit up in the air.

“I didn’t want to be out of managing, I wasn’t ready to give up football and saw the opportunity at Melksham – one of the biggest clubs in the league, an unbelievable team and couldn’t pass up the opportunity. I have worked hard to get to this position and will give it my all. 

“Melksham definitely have the facilities and give me the sense that they don’t want to sit still. The committee have given me the assurance that they are keen to progress and I believe are ready to play conference south football. They have an amazing stadium and team to achieve this and hope that in the next few years all this will be in our sights. 

“I will be bringing Nathan Rudge with me from Street FC as assistant manager and working with current player Luke Ballinger as players’ coach. I know both of them very well, with Nathan being my best friend  – we were each others’ best men at our weddings – and I used to manage Luke when he played at Chippenham and we have spoken on a regular basis for the last 6-7 years. 

“Working as a three is an excellent opportunity. Luke, Nick Evans – the goalkeeping coach who will be staying on for next season – and team physio Chloe Gerrish will help to keep some club stability and some friendly faces for the club and supporters. 

“Obviously what happened at the end of last season at Melksham Town has happened, and I will be looking to rebuild and create a new side. I have seen a few of the lads play and have in mind those who I want to keep.

“I must congratulate the players who remained for the club at the end of the season, it shows how dedicated they are to the team and are real local boys. But, my phone will always be on if those who left wish to return. 

“What we need now is for the supporters to really get behind the club as we are going to need their help. It’s going to be a hard job, I knew it was going to be hard. However, the supporters at Melksham Town have always been great whenever Street played them, home or away, and I really hope it grows over the next season. 

“I just want to put smiles back on the supporters’ faces as the season didn’t end as it should have for them. I ask for them to come out and get behind the new team, as it will be a very young side that need the support.

“The amount of messages I have received since the announcement has been overwhelming and I am trying to reply to them all. Now I’m looking forward to next season and the huge task I have ahead.”

Picture: Richard Fey