LEISTON boss Glenn Driver and head coach Tony Kinsella have been rewarded with three-and-a-half year deals after an impressive first half of the season.
The duo were in charge of Leiston’s reserves last term and led them to a strong sixth-place finish in the Eastern Counties League Division One.
They were given the chance to step up and take control of the club’s first team following Richard Wilkins’ departure in May.
And the pair have not disappointed. Driver’s free-flowing, attacking football has seen attendances rise at Victory Drive as Leiston compete at the top of the Ryman Premier.
Results, as well as performances, have been good and the Blues currently sit fourth in the table, four points off the top with two games in hand.
The club look set to better their club-record finish of eighth last season and the Suffolk outfit have moved to secure their management team on long-term deals.
Boss Driver told the club’s website: “To say I’m happy about extending my stay here at Leiston Football Club is an understatement.
“This club is in my heart and I’m grateful that the chairman and the board feel they can put their trust in myself and Tony Kinsella for another three-and-a-half years.
“We are building for the future, signing young players who we feel we can develop. It’s not just about a first team at this club any longer, it’s about Leiston Football Club as a whole and we need to develop our own youths through a system, something that has never really happened here.
“For a club of this size to offer us this deal proves we are doing something right. We have a long way to go and a lot of work to do to achieve our goals but it’s been a fantastic first season in charge at this level.
“The crowds are getting bigger and our supporters are absolutely fantastic, they want to see a brand of football that excites them.
“We know there will be tough times along the way but if we stick together I’m sure the future at this club is bright. Personally, I will continue to work as hard i can to build a club we can all be proud of.”
Chairman Andy Crisp added: “To secure the services of Glenn and Tony is fantastic news for the club.
“As chairman it’s been a little unfortunate that over the last few seasons we have had quite a few managerial changes so with these agreements now signed it brings some stability to the club which of course is very important when discussing things such as three to five-year plans and contracts with players.”
