Page 346 - NUAFC EBook

Phil Ruggles appointed Senior Coach for 2011

Phil arrived in New Zealand, particularly “We have had a good pre-season where the
Ngaruawahia, late last year. He quickly picked up a desired player characteristics of dedication, attitude, heart
playing position with Dunedin City in the Summer League and spirit have begun to develop.”
and commuted for his games. “Pre-season was to get the team ready for the
Originally from Surrey, England, Phil has played challenges for the season ahead. We need to drive forward
Conference football for Basingstoke, Woking and now and step up our work load even more. Have a good
Bromley and holds a UEFA ‘B’ coaching licence. season lads - good luck.”
As player/coach he and the team will be pushing “Finally I would like to wish the other players
for promotion out of NL Division 2 and into Division 1 for within the club all the best for the forth-coming season.”
2012. Phil has been appreciative of the solid support
“I would like to welcome everyone back to the from the club’s players, supporters and committee in his
2011 season.” said Phil. appointment.
“Looking at our pre-season preparations I am Assistant Coach Norm Rose will attend to the
pleased with how the boys have come back following last Reserve side, which trains alongside the seniors as one
seasons disappointment of a double relegation.” squad. Sean Sullivan has been appointed captain of the
“Coming in this season I had many ideas. My senior side.
main objectives were to get the lads enjoying being at the
club again, to get the enthusiasm back into their game, get
the shape right and to get the lads winning games and
believing in themselves.”
“We have had a few new faces come into the team
- Danyon, Tom and Matt. These boys have settled really
well within the squad and I believe them to be very good
additions.”
Phil has asked a few players to play in different
positions this season and feels that they have taken all
advice on board and are relishing the first team
opportunities.
“During the pre-season we have played a handful
of games,” said Phil. “Some performances have been
good, some indifferent, but overall I have been very
impressed by each player.
“I am attempting to instil into all the players the
ethic of working hard and enjoying their football.” he said.
Phil Ruggles with Assistant Coach Norm Rose.

346