Farewell: Tom Shaw Statement

Here's a statement from departing Head Coach Tom Shaw, following the news of his departure that broke on Monday evening (9th May 2022). On behalf of everyone here at Gainsborough Trinity Football Club, the board, backroom staff, media team and volunteers, we wish Tom good luck in all of his future endeavours. Tom, your efforts have certainly not gone unnoticed at the club, and we thank you for your dedication during your tenure.

Details

Tom’s statement reads: It is with a heavy heart that I have made the decision to leave my role as Head Coach of Gainsborough Trinity. The past 12 months has been an unforgiving, challenging but brilliant experience that I have committed everything to. We began our tenure unable to retain any players from the previous year, therefore starting day one of pre-season with a squad of zero.

The recruitment process was difficult and I feel we were still in a trial period up until the end of January. The players that were part of the journey from day one until Whitby away on the last day, this tells you everything about their ability and character, as we were constantly looking to improve the squad. I thank the players, whether their contribution was great or small, for their efforts and endeavours this season. They showed honesty and humility throughout and I think we managed to maximise the quality of our squad.

I was told before I joined the club by previous Managers how good a man Richard Kane is. He has been superb with me throughout and I am very grateful for his support, patience and understanding along the way. There are some brilliant people involved at the club and again, I thank them for their support and backing. A special thanks to Kev Johnson for his belief in what we were doing amongst his many other roles at the club, also to Woody for preparing us a magnificent pitch every other week.

I wish Gainsborough Trinity the best of fortune moving forwards. It is a brilliant football club, has unrivalled support, who I cannot thank enough for the part they played this year, a first class Chairman and the potential to be a real force. I have an opportunity in the Football League that gives me progression in my coaching career; I am ambitious and feel I have to accept the opportunity.

I have learnt an incredible amount during my year as Gainsborough’s Head Coach and I will be forever thankful for the experiences. 5pm every Saturday, I will be checking the Holy Blues score and I hope this year’s efforts can be built upon and bettered.

All the best, Tom.