Dave Cole has become Crawley Wasps’ manager on a permanent basis after guiding the squad through pre-season as interim boss.
Cole – who had been the team’s assistant manager since arriving in the summer of 2016 – said: “I’m excited about taking on this job and continuing the work Paul [Walker] and I started some years ago, because there’s unfinished business.
“The squad has been taking shape over the pre-season, with new signings to be announced soon and I’m very pleased with the progress we have made.”
Wasps chairman Jack Ayles said: “I’m extremely pleased Dave has agreed to take charge of the team. He’s been a valuable part of our success over the last few years and will ensure continuity on the pitch and in the dressing room as we enter an exciting new season.”
Prior to joining Wasps, Cole was director of football at Lewes Women and scouted for Millwall Lionesses. He has also coached men’s sides Eastbourne United AFC, AFC Uckfield and Withdean.
First-team coaches Mike Gardner and Chat Perera, and goalkeeping coach Paul Woodhams, have all been retained, while Richard Lowes joins as physiotherapist. Matt Graves has left the staff to join Southampton Women’s FC.
Cole’s first competitive game in charge will come at Hounslow on Sunday 20 September, while the club’s first home match is against MK Dons on 27 September and likely to be behind closed doors.
