28-06-08: PRE-SEASON TRAINING STARTS TODAY
Steve Pope took charge of his first training session this Saturday morning with a tough two hour session at Llandrillo College.
With roughly thirty players at Steve's first session, it was a mixture of endurance and explosive power as the session started with a cross country run.
Steve then took the squad for a series of energy sapping sprints up the steep embankment located at the side of the football field.
If our fitness doesn't scare the opposition, surely our 'Zulu' attacks will do the trick! Be afraid - Be very afraid!
This was followed by a a quick drinks break before a further test of the squad’s stamina with some up hill distance running.
With a 150 metre stretch, the squad were put through their paces with a series of jogs up the steady incline to its summit.
The session finished with some quick sprinting and turning exercises as Steve once again demanded to see the squads ability to push themselves to the limit.
After the session Steve Pope was more than impressed with the effort that was put in by everyone in attendance. Steve said of his squad “Everyone’s attitude was great today and they all gave everything.”
Steve then took the squad back to Llanelian Road for a well earned
drink and a bit of a bonding session.
While he was there, Steve checked out the steep running track Phil Cross had cut into the hillside ready for his next training session.
27-06-08: THE POPE GETS HIS MAN
Colwyn Bay FC has acquired the signature of Ashton United's Dean Canning. After Steve Pope had expressed an interest in the 25-year old, Dean travelled to Llanelian Road with family members for a meeting with the manager and club officials. Dean was very impressed at the set up at Llanelian Road and a verbal agreement was reached, but as Dean was under contract at Ashton United, theirs would be the final word as Bay officials waited for news regarding the bid that was put in.
The good news received yesterday evening was that the undisclosed bid had been accepted and the paperwork from Ashton United and Dean Canning had been signed. Dean is just one of many players at the Bay this year that has turned down bigger offers from other clubs to come to Llanelian Road.
Steve Pope stated "We are very lucky to have a player of this calibre come on board. Dean is an exciting player who could have chosen to play his football at a higher level. His work rate is immense and I have personally seen him terrorise the opposition defence with his pace and work rate."
23-06-08: JAMES STONE EVENING A ROARING SUCCESS
The James Stone evening hosted by our Patron, John Martin was a great success. John Martin was in fantastic form as was 'Soul Sensation' James Stone. John kicked the evening off with his quick sense of humour and loads of new material as he had the room in fits of laughter. He then introduced the evenings special guest, James Stone, who was an instant hit, especialluy with the ladies as he girated across the stage.
James Stone wasn't the only man showing off his moves as our very own 'Glyn Jones' had the ladies dancing with his silky moves. He impressed the room so much, that James Stone has now renamed Glyn 'Jabbas' Jones the 'Ragamuffin Man'.
19-06-08: POPE IN STRIKER SWOOP
Manager Steve Pope has beaten off competition from Witton Albion and Warrington Town to sign 23-year-old striker Rob Hopley from Leek Town. Hopley is 6ft 4” and scored 7 goals in his debut season in the Unibond premier league last season although he was played at centre half for most of the campaign due to an injury crisis. Manager Steve Pope comments “Rob is another exciting signing, he will give us something extra upfront with his presence and has a great touch, is quick and can score goals.” The manager is also hopeful of bringing in another 1 or 2 players before pre-season begins on 28th June.
15-06-08: NEW DIRECTORS APPOINTED
Colwyn Bay Football Club has strengthened the board with two new appointments.
Chris Whitley has stepped up from the Academy Director role to take up a new appointment as Director of Football.
Chris who has already been tasked with implementing the clubs new youth development structure will now see his role expanded to include advising the board on all football related matters and to support the first team manager. Chris will also be looking to establish links with professional league clubs for the benefit of all sides from youth to first team & assist in ensuring that the preparations of all playing teams are as professional as possible.
Whitley, a former Colwyn Bay player in the seventies, is highly qualified as a coach, holding UEFA's “A” License & has a wealth of experience and contacts in the game, especially at youth & international level, having worked with a number of current and former Welsh internationals such as Ian Rush & Mark Hughes and more recently Gareth Bale & Aaron Ramsey. Chris has served in excess of over 300 international matches for the national youth squads.
Chris commented “I am delighted to accept the invitation to assist Colwyn Bay Football Club in the capacity of Director of Football. It is my intention to put in place a modern progressive playing structure at the club with emphasis on provision for young players with opportunity for personal development and progression within the game. I shall also be working closely in supporting the first team manager to implement a thoroughly professional approach to all football related activities.”
In a further appointment, Mark Williams has also joined the board as Director of Communications and will be responsible for managing and directing the clubs internal and external communications with fans and the media. Mark, who currently works within the media industry will also serve as the key spokesperson and media contact for the club and will advise the Board of Directors on all communications & PR work.
Managing Director Darren Cartwright stated “we are delighted to have made these appointments. Chris will bring all round football expertise to the board and contribute to ensure that our playing structure is run as professionally as possible. Mark, who has been a great servant of the club with all his work running the youth team, Matchday administration duties as well as fundraising work will take on what is a very important role in ensuring that the media and our supporters are being kept well informed of developments at the club.
15-06-08: PARRY RETURNS / GOALKEEPER COACH APPOINTED
After talks with Manager Steve Pope, 25 year old Matty Parry who originally signed for Colwyn Bay FC in summer 2003, has returned to Llanelian road.
Parry comments on his return “I’m thrilled to be coming back to the Bay, the supporters are fantastic and I’m really looking forward to the new season.“ Manager Steve Pope explained that Parry chose a return to the Bay ahead of approaches from two Conference North Clubs. Steve Pope went on to say “Matt is a quality keeper and is hungry for success. I’m looking forward to working with him.”
In a further addition to the goalkeeping department Mark Cartwright has been appointed as Goalkeeper Coach. During his career Mark made over 100 league appearances for Wrexham, Brighton & Shrewsbury & was previously goalkeeper coach at Scottish Premier League side Livingston. Mark is also a FIFA licensed football agent.
CLUB MEMBERSHIP SCHEME LAUNCHED – JOIN NOW!
Colwyn Bay Football Club have launched a brand new membership scheme designed to provide a range of benefits for members including:
- 10% Discount on season tickets.
- Discount on selected goods in the Supporters Club Shop.
- Club Lounge membership and preferential bar prices
- Discounted admission on club events such as Sporting Dinners
- Special offers with local businesses
- Access to “Members Only” section on website featuring Manager’s post match interviews, media downloads & exclusive video content (coming soon)
All membership fees go toward club running costs and ground upkeep.
To apply for membership please download an application form here
Forms will also be available from the clubs Bay Shopping Centre stall from Monday 16th June.
11-06-08: MATCHDAY SECRETARY REQUIRED
Colwyn Bay Football Club requires the services of a Matchday Secretary for our first team. The role involves arranging fixtures and referees along with associated administration duties on match days. The club will provide full training and support. Anyone interested in this position please contact Mark Williams on 07500017177 or via email: markw.cbfc@talktalk.net
10-06-08: STEVE POPE ANSWERS YOUR QUESTIONS
Steve Pope recently offered to answer the top ten questions from the fans forum. This was done to bridge the gap between the signing of the new manager and the fans forum, which is to be held on 25th June, giving the fans an insight to his thoughts.
Questions & Answers session with Colwyn Bay Manager -STEVE POPE
Phil:
Q: What do you think you can bring to this club, as far as the need for promotion is paramount and what type of football will get us up!
A: I hope to bring professionalism to the club, from my experiences at former clubs where I have achieved success. I have come to Colwyn Bay to be successful and for that to happen, we all need to get together, everyone from the tea lady all the way up to the top of the board. I have always been at clubs that play good football and that wont change, but you also need to win battles on the pitch and scrap for 1-0 wins sometimes.
Bob Delgado’s Beard:
Q: Are you in touch with any of the managers you have played for and will you be using them for advice and availability of players to sign for the coming season?
A: I’ve spoken to a few managers from pro clubs and they have already given me some advice. They are also willing to help out with players if needed.
Puppetmaster:
Q: Can you confirm if any of last season's squad will be playing for us again this year?
A: After speaking to the players who I have been able to contact; they have made it clear that they intended to see what happens elsewhere. It has been very difficult to access phone numbers of a few of the players. I can’t wait for ever for answers from the players that I have spoken to as I’m trying to build a good squad of players and you have to get them signed promptly to avoid losing them.
Seagulish-Kev:
Q: I assume you're aware of your budget to spend on players and wages in the forthcoming season - with what’s available do you believe you'll be able to attain promotion?
A: With the budget I have, I am confident that the club will have a successful season.
Mattyseagull:
Q: What, as an inexperienced manager, do you think you can bring that former, more experienced managers couldn’t?
A: As an inexperienced manager, I hope to bring the surprise element to the other sides. Other teams won’t know how my team play and how my set pieces work so this could be an advantage. Experienced managers tend to stick to their beliefs of the game, no matter which club they are at and so everyone has an insight into their method of play. I have fresh, modern ideas and am eager to show these on and off the park.
Argonaut:
Q: What attributes will you be looking for most of all in the players your going to bring in (aside from fitness), are you looking for strong and physical players, or more skilful and pacey?
A: I want my players to have all round attributes so that they are able to adjust their game. In this league, pace and power combined with ability and the will to win goes a long way.
Stever:
Q: Have the board given you assurances that if things are not going well but are not going badly either they will allow you the time to build a squad suitable not only for promotion to the Premier Division but beyond?
A: If promotion is gained then I demand much the same next year, because there is not a massive gulf between the 2 leagues, I am a winner and I demand my players to be the same with the ‘never say die’ attitude. The board have been very supportive in my decisions so far and I know that they will support me throughout the seasons ahead. It’s a newish squad and so it will take time to settle and the board understand this.
JPD1606
Q: I heard a whisper on Sat that there may be a Director of Football, how would you feel about this at the Bay should it happen?
A: A Director of Football would be fantastic for the club. The more help that this Football Club can get the better, and also for myself, as it’s often helpful to have a sounding wall to bounce ideas off.
Seadragon:
Q: With other managerial positions that are open at the moment, what was it that attracted you to Colwyn Bay FC?
A: Colwyn Bay attracted me because of so many reasons. It’s a sleeping giant that is waiting for success and I would love to be involved in it. I’ve played here before and the fans are the best in non-league, they really get behind the team and turn out in numbers, especially when the team is doing well.
Borninbay:
Q: When our Board were introduced to us last season, Geoff told us of his wish to be playing conference football in 5 years. Being that one year has passed without promotion, do you believe that you can achieve that goal and is achieving that goal a condition of the job (pat on the back if you do, sack if you don't)?
A: Conference football is still our aim, or else I wouldn’t be here! If you look at what Fleetwood have achieved in recent seasons by sticking together, having a settled playing squad and having that bit of luck that everyone needs then anything is possible. If this is achieved, then I think we’d all deserve a pat on the back.
09-06-08 : LEWIS CALLAGHAN RETURNS AS TWO MORE SIGN
Fans
favorite Lewis Callaghan's return has been secured by Steve Pope in what has been a busy spell for the manager and his assistant Paul Ogden.
In addition to this welcome news, Colwyn Bay FC have won the race to sign Airbus UK centre half John Davies.Cammell Laird and Bangor City were amongst the clubs vying for the twenty threee year old, ex-Chester player’s signature. Manager Steve Pope commented “I’m very pleased that John has agreed to join us especially considering he has received more lucrative offers from other clubs. He is very quick and a good reader of the game.”
In another signing 21 year old midfielder Mark Soboljew has joined from Alsager having previously appeared for Leek Town in the UniBond Premier League. Mark was also a professional at Port Vale.
04-06-08 : COLWYN BAY FC THANK SPONSORS 
Colwyn Bay Football Club held a special evening to say ‘Thank You' to all their sponsors in style at the Colwyn Bay FC Club Lounge on Monday 2nd June.
The first ever “Sponsors Evening” was held as a way for the club to say thank you for all of the support that was kindly given last season through various Matchday sponsorships & advertising packages.
A number of individual and corporate sponsors from a variety of local and national companies enjoyed drinks, a buffet, plus superb entertainment from comedian John Martin and special guest speaker Everton legend Dave Watson. Commercial Manager Carol Beard commented “The evening was a great success and I would like to thank everyone for attending.” 
A raffle was held for the clubs first ever shorts sponsor and this was won by “Progress School of Motoring” whose logo is to be featured on the first team's player's shorts for season 08/09.
Club Patron John Martin explained to the audience how the club has plans to further develop community links, implement a youth development system as well as improving facilities and supporting a competitive first team. Any companies who wish to help support the club over the forthcoming season can contact Carol Beard on 07881 957134 or via email on carol@cbfchome.f9.co.uk
03-06-08 : HADLAND JOINS 
Colwyn Bay FC have beaten off competition from Witton Albion and Eastwood Town for the signature of Kidsgrove twenty eight year old forward Phil Hadland. Phil has made league appearances for Rochdale , Carlisle , Darlington and Colchester along with spells at Northwich Victoria and Stalybridge Celtic. Manager Steve Pope commented “Phil is an exciting player with bags of pace, an eye for goal and will be a good addition to the squad”.
03-06-8 : PRE-SEASON FIXTURES
Wrexham and a Tranmere Rovers XI head the list of visitors to Llanelian Road as the initial programme of pre-season friendlies has been announced as follows:
Fri July 11 - 7.30pm TNS (H)
Tues July 15 - 7.30pm Rhyl (A)
Sat July 19 - 3.00pm Cefn Druids (H)
Wed July 23 - 7.00pm Tranmere (H)
Sat July 26 - 2.00pm Wrexham (H)
Sat Aug 02 - 3.00pm Hednesford Town (H)
Tues Aug 05 - 7.30pm Vauxhall Motors (A)
The club is also looking to confirm further fixtures and will be added to the list accordingly.
03-06-08 : POPE SIGNS UP ANOTHER THREE
Steve Pope has recruited the services of two goalkeepers. 27 year old Stuart McIntosh (brother of centre forward James) is the former Airbus UK keeper. 21 year old Damian Stevens has also signed, formerly with Shrewsbury Town and AFC Telford.
Richard Smart has also been brought in. He is a 27 year-old left-footed defender or midfielder who has been Chester City , Stoke, Airbus and Porthmadog.
03-06-08 : NEIL BLACK JOINS CAMMELL LAIRDS
Top scorer Neil Black has left Colwyn Bay to sign for newly promoted Cammell Laird. On behalf of everyone at Colwyn Bay FC, I would like to Thank Neil Black for his time at Colwyn Bay and wish him good luck for the future
02-6-08 : AGM & FANS FORUM ANNOUNCED
The Annual General Meeting of Colwyn Bay Football Club Limited will be held on Wednesday 25th June 2008 in the Club Lounge at 7.00pm. The club's accounts for the financial year ending 31st May 2007 will be available at the meeting
Please Note: Only shareholders or their appointed proxy voters {in writing}, may attend and vote at this meeting.
Following the AGM, a fans forum will be held at the Club Lounge starting at 8:00pm. Members of the board will outline the clubs current position and future plans and also introduce the new manager Steve Pope and his assistant Paul Ogden.
01-06-08 : POPE IN TRIPLE SWOOP
Manager Steve Pope has secured the signatures of three more players this week. In what has been a busy week for Steve, further updates will be made throughout the week as players sign for next season.
Jonathon Crompton - powerful, 6ft 3, centre half released by Port Vale after captaining their successful FA Youth Cup side last season to wins against Bolton and Tottenham on the way to a quarter final defeat to Chelsea.
Carl Frost – Striker who began his career at Crewe Alexandra playing alongside Dean Ashton. Carl has had spells with Witton Albion and Leek Town whilst last season turned down an offer to sign for UniBond North Champions Bradford PA. and is now looking to get back to his best following injury problems.
James McIntosh – physical centre forward who has scored 21 goals in 53 appearances in the last two seasons for Airbus UK in the Welsh Premier League. |
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