Following on from Miramar Rangers appointment of former All White Ken Cresswell as coach for the 2003 Southern Trust National Soccer League, Central United have followed a similar line in announcing Billy Harris as the Auckland clubs new coach.
Harris is, like Cresswell, a former international with a long-playing career at national and regional level. The similarities don’t end there though, with both players still active at first team level in 2002, Cresswell with Wellington United and Harris at Takapuna in the Northern Premier League.
Central club President Ivan Vuksich says Harris will have responsibilities beyond the first team. “Billy will also be looking after our Northern Premier League side, which is primarily a youth development squad. The winter to summer aspect and small overlap makes it ideal for Billy to take overall control of both squads. This will allow for a smooth transition of players between teams and a consistent coaching message to be delivered.”
Assistant coaches will be appointed for both the Southern Trust National League and Northern Premier League squads in the next few weeks. The 2003 Southern Trust National League kicks off in February next year.