Boardley to play on as new assistant manager

Long-serving midfielder Stuart Boardley is extending his stay at Leiston to kick off in next season's Ryman Premier campaign as assistant manager.

After considering leaving the Suffolk club during the run-in for a fresh challenge, the versatile 30-year-old is set to play on at Victory Road after accepting an offer from manager Richard Wilkins to become his assistant manager.

In February, the former Ipswich Town and Torquay United player made his 300th league appearance for the Blues against Margate, nearly a decade after first arriving at the Suffolk club in 2005. After a spell at AFC Sudbury, Boardley returned to Victory Road where he has been a key figure in midfield or defence, winning back-to-back league titles in 2011 and 2012.

Boardley, pictured, said: "I had a chat with the manager two months before the end of the season and he wanted me to stay. I thought perhaps a fresh challenge was required to allow more time at home and had contemplated stepping down a level or two, certainly out of the Ryman League.

“We spoke before the last home game of the season against Canvey Island and I hadn't really changed my mind. Then a couple of weeks later we had some further discussions away from football and the role of assistant-manager was offered, including me continuing as a player.

“I mulled it over and discussed it with my family and knew it was too good an offer to turn down. I spoke with other players who had combined a similar role and every one of them urged me to do it.

“Not many people get the opportunity to 'cut their teeth' at this level so I am really excited about the job. Admittedly, the role has arisen sooner than I thought but I will be working under a great manager who has been there and done it at this level."

Boardley, who scored twice in October 2008 as Leiston beat Lewes in the FA Cup to book a place in the first round proper for the first time in the club's history, added: “I always wanted to stay really, the Canvey and Hendon games were extremely hard as I knew I was leaving. Leiston is a great club and I'm really, really pleased to be staying now. The fans have been tremendous and the chairman, vice-chairman and committee have been terrific.

"I love it at Leiston and delighted to stay and I'm sure it will work for all parties. I feel I have a lot to offer. I think the manager wants someone who knows the players and especially the club."

Blues boss Wilkins added: "It's a real positive for the club to have someone of Stuart's experience and enthusiasm on the management team. He has proved his loyalty at the club and still has a big playing contribution to offer.

"His knowledge will aid the younger players` progression and he will work alongside Simon Betts to complete a wealth of football attributes. I am sure he will do very well and enjoy his new role."

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