Lovett out, Kember in, and another point on the board for Whitehawk

It's been a busy few days for Pitching In Isthmian Premier side Whitehawk, who on Friday saw boss Jay Lovett replaced by a new boss, Rob Kember- and then saw the latter pick up a late point in his first match in charge, in Cheshunt on Saturday.

Lovett only took over in the summer. He was previously in joint charge of Burgess Hill Town, indeed he only departed the Hillians in April, after helping to steer them to Pitching In Isthmian South East promotion in 24-25. He was previously in sole charge at Hill, and also managed South Park Reigate and Haywards Heath Town. As a player he turned out for the likes of Brentford, Plymouth Argyle, Crawley Town, Lewes, Eastbourne Borough and Met Police. 

Upon his departure, he explained:

“It is with a heavy heart that I am writing to resign from my position as First Team Manager of Whitehawk FC. This has not been an easy decision, but I have found it increasingly difficult to balance the workload of my day-to-day coaching commitments with the time and attention required to give Whitehawk FC the commitment it deserves. I have always believed that this role requires complete dedication, and unfortunately, I have found it difficult to give the club the time it needs alongside my other responsibilities. Whilst the results have not been where we would have wanted them to be, I feel that stepping aside now gives the club the best opportunity to bring someone in early enough to make a positive impact, push the team forward in the league and get Whitehawk FC back to where it belongs. The club deserves success, and I genuinely believe there is enough quality within the group to achieve that.'

Kember was in charge of South Park Reigate until early last month.

Rob took over at the Sparks in November of 2024, and he and his management team left their side in thirteenth place in Pitching In Isthmian South East. They finished tenth in Pitching In Isthmian South Central last season, fifteenth in 24-25.

Rob was previously in charge at Chipstead, from where he departed at the end of the 22-23 season. He had held the top job at the Chips for four years prior to his resignation, and his side equalled the Chips highest ever Isthmian finish in 21-22.  He was previously a fine footballer with Bromley and Crawley Town.

He told the Hawks media team:

“I’d like to say a huge thank you to the club and board of directors for the trust and opportunity to be appointed First Team Manager. It’s a real honour, and I’m excited to get started, working with the players and staff to help drive the club forward from its current position. I’m looking forward to the challenge and giving everything I have to bring success to the club and its supporters.”