Coda: so that’s what happened

He bestrides the narrow world.  Like a Colossus…

When Pat McManus announced that he would be standing down after 11 years and well over 500 games as manager of Brockenhurst, I said there would be time for valedictions and reflections; and that time, for me, is now.  The news came as something of a shock – no doubt to others even more than to me. 

It’s not just that Pat’s the only Brock manager I’ve ever known, since we started supporting the club in autumn 2015 (ah, our salad days).  But his influence and his standards permeate everything about Brock, and especially everything that’s good.  A commitment to good football; a commitment to bringing young players through, developing talent, giving people a chance.  And more than that, a commitment to – well, if I can use an old-fashioned word, to decency.  No time for the arrogant or the disrespectful player; they don’t last long.  It shows up in the good disciplinary record, as well as the friendly, welcoming atmosphere around Grigg Lane.  And if you look at the widespread praise on Twitter (and on the Wessex League Show), you’ll notice not only that Pat knows everyone, but that everyone has a good word to say for him.  He’s been a great manager, but more importantly he’s a gentleman.  There are too few of them in the world. 

I don’t always agree with Pat; sometimes it feels as if he’s watching a different game to me (although on the few occasions we’ve stood near him on the touchline, he’s saying all the same things I am).  But I have always been 100% clear that he knows far more than me about the game, as well as knowing more about the players, knocks they’re carrying or other issues they may be dealing with.  His dedication to Brock has been outstanding, and he absolutely deserves the chance to ply his trade at a higher level – no question that he’s good enough, and will be a great asset to wherever is fortunate enough to secure his services.  There’ll be a new manager at the Meadens Arena, but there won’t be a replacement.  Time for a new era.

So, Mr McManus, good luck.  And, from everyone connected to the club, THANK YOU!