Atherton Collieries manager steps down

28 Apr 2023 By James Gordon

Atherton Collieries have confirmed the departure of manager Brad Cooke after almost four seasons in charge.

During his time at the club, Cooke led Colls to two record-high league finishes and their first Lancashire FA Trophy final appearance.

He departs the club he first joined in December 2019 after residing over 126 competitive matches, in addition to the 261 appearances he made during his playing days.

This season, his team dramatically escaped relegation from the Northern Premier League as a late leveller from Marcus Cusani secured the point they needed away at Stalybridge Celtic to leapfrog Nantwich Town on the final day of the 2022/23 campaign.

On his decision to leave the club he spent a decade with, Cooke said: “The decision to step down as manager of the football club has been one of the hardest decisions that I have ever had to make.

"But it’s a decision that I have to make for myself, and the timing is right for both myself and the club.

“I am proud of what we have achieved as a group at a football club that has punched way above its weight. I hope the club can continue to build off the field to match the achievements on it.

“I am proud of what we have done as a football club. Colls will always be my club, but after over 10 years of association it’s time for the chapter to close."

Colls chairman Paul Gregory said: “I would like to add that Brad is the most amenable manager I have ever worked with, and the hardest working one to boot.

"Good luck to Brad in the future.”

The club say they will provide a further update with regards to the search for a new manager in due course.

Photo credit: Atherton Collieries

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