City Chairman Julian Tagg provides the low-down on work behind the scenes
WHILST CITY boss Paul Tisdale has already completed the signings of Robbie Simpson, Lloyd James and Liam McAlinden in preparation for the 2016/17 season, we take a look at the work going on behind the scenes at the club to keep you in touch with all things Exeter City.Today’s focus is on the on the Academy.
Some of you who go back beyond the days of the Trust may remember a man called Michael Vandale who put some money into the St James Centre (the OTR Company). A Canadian resident who developed a passion for the red half of Devon, he has always stayed in touch with the club due to his OTR connections but also his love of football and all things Exeter.
He recently returned to the club having been instrumental in bringing the St Xavier University (Canada) soccer programme to us here at Exeter City. Dan Hayfield, a talented young player that didn’t quite make the cut at 18, has just completed a highly successful year not only playing for St Xavier but studying for a degree.
The programme goes from strength to strength as it has now teamed up as an exchange programme with Exeter University and another Exeter City player Josh Read is now flying out to join Dan. Michael Vandale is generously helping ex-Exeter City boys with significant funds towards their tuition so that they can pursue their dream whilst remaining in further education.
The boys will come back with a significant number of playing hours under their belts, the experience of living in a foreign country and a degree. The door at City remains open and who knows what the ultimate outcome might be.
In other news:
Oliver Roderick, who did a great job as club media manager over the course of the 2015/16 season, has moved on and the hunt to find his replacement has begun. We wish him all the very best for the future.
Julian Tagg, Chairman.