Hawks boss Ross resigns- Assistant steps up

Whitehawk yesterday announced the resignation of manager Ross McNeilly. 

Ross, who took over at the Enclosed Ground in May, was previously Head Coach for the first team at Dorking Wanderers, after five years at Aldershot Town, where he was in charge of the Academy, the lead coach for the Under 21 side, and spent a long period as Interim Manager of the First Team. He told the club website:

'I have made the decision to resign both for me and in the best interests of the club. I am someone who has always worked full-time in football, and that’s where my skills and interests lie. I have additional personal reasons that have also made the decision somewhat unavoidable.  I want to thank the fans for welcoming me to the club and their continued support. I am forever grateful.'

His replacement is his Assistant, Dave Altendorff, who joined the club with him after managing Lancing to their most successful season ever in 23-24. He was previously Head Coach of the Lancers during the 2019/20 season, and has also been Head of Football at Ringmer AFC, Head Coach at Newhaven FC and manager at Loxwood FC.

He told the website:

“I am excited to take on the role of manager at Whitehawk FC and grateful to the board, especially John and Ned, for their support and for giving me this opportunity. I have immense faith in the players’ ability to climb out of the relegation zone, although it won’t be an overnight fix.

While I plan to bring in just a few new additions to strengthen us, I assure everyone at the club that there won’t be wholesale changes. I want to say to the fans that I am fully committed to the challenge ahead, I understand your frustrations, and your support is crucial as we navigate this challenging period together as a club.

I’m optimistic about our future success this season and beyond, and looking forward to the next match. Thank you for believing in us.'

More here.