INTERNATIONAL: Joint Wales team managers appointed
33/18 can confirm the news that Neil Garnett and Dave Murphy have been appointed as the new joint-managers of the Wales national cycle speedway squad.
Garnett has become a much-respected official in the South and South Wales region, and he is new to International team management. He responded to the news by saying, “I’m excited and enthusiastic about this opportunity and will be fully committed, as we look towards defending the Home Internationals, before planning for Poland and the next Australian tour”.
With Murphy having previously managed Wales for almost two decades, the new joint-managers can offer a good mix of skills and experience to lead the Welsh national squad towards achieving its full potential in the future.
Murphy told 33/18 “First and foremost, our intention is that this will be a partnership as we want to work together at progressing from what was achieved by the previous management”.
In acknowledging the recent achievements of former managers Dale Clark and Nick Evans, Murphy added, “We also intend to put a lot of energy into developing the squad through staging Wednesday evening training camps in South Wales during the coming season”.
Garnett also added, “We will be looking to nurture a strong working relationship with both East Newport and Newport clubs, plus any Anglo-based Welsh riders who want to help us meet the challenges ahead”.
It is acknowledged that both men have attributes which should enhance the Wales set-up, whilst both are keen to retain the services of long-standing and much-valued coach Stuart Raven.
As Murphy concluded, “It is our intention that we will each work to our strengths, with Neil keen to take an active role in the coaching and rider development aspects, whilst I will provide both Neil and Stuart with my full support and the benefit of my experience, as deemed appropriate”.
In the meantime, Murphy will take more of a lead role in many of the administration and communication aspects of the role, with both men aiming to work in unison on team management during International events.
The new management team is interested to hear from all Welsh riders, particularly those who will be participating at the World Championships in Poland this year, as they begin their preparations. Initial communication should be directed to Neil Garnett, who can be contacted on Mobile: 07809 575 075.