rticle Date: 11 May 2011
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First Team Managers
Boston United are delighted to confirm the appointments of Jason Lee and Lee Canoville as the club’s new first team managers.
The duo — who had been in caretaker charge of the Pilgrims since the departures of Rob Scott and Paul Hurst in March — were confirmed as the club’s joint managers at the completion of an interview process where a further five applicants had been considered for the role.
Lee (40) and Canoville (30) guided United to a third place finish in Blue Square Bet North before tumbling out of play-off contention on penalties after a thrilling 3-3 aggregate draw against Guiseley.
The Nottingham-based pairing now have the opportunity to embark on an assault at the 2011-2012 campaign — with the futures of out-of-contract players set to be decided.
Reflecting on the duo’s permanent appointments, chairman David Newton told bufc.co.uk: “We are delighted to confirm that Jason and Lee are the club’s new management team.
“Both men have worked hard over recent weeks in steadying the ship initially and then seeing our aim of reaching the play-off final ended only by the lottery of a penalty shootout.
“We always maintained that we would take the job to the market and I would like to thank all those that applied for the position and in particular those that attended the interviews.
“This was a difficult process for us to conclude, particularly when faced with the dilemma of appointing inexperienced managers over those with a proven track record. However, we believe that Jason and Lee have demonstrated to us that they have all the right attributes to be successful and we will all do our very best to support them in their new roles.
“We wish them every success and now look forward to seeing them assemble their squad ahead of the new season.”
Following a successful two-year stint with the Pilgrims in the Football League, Lee returned to the club in October 2010, but opted to retire shortly afterwards due to personal reasons.
He returned to The Jakemans Stadium once again in March 2011 following the departures of Scott and Hurst — and linked up with former team-mate Canoville in the process.
Canoville has made 147 appearances for the Pilgrims during two spells to date and will continue to play in 2011-2012.
Stay tuned to bufc.co.uk for reaction from United’s new permanent management team, plus impending news on the club’s retained list and details regarding the sale of season tickets for 2011-2012...