The Love of the Challenge not the Glory

As a general rule, it is not considered a good move to leave a team chasing promotion and join one that is fighting relegation.

This seems to contradict our fundamental human nature, as we typically seek out success and glory ahead of all other desires. Football is a strange and unique sport, however, and one in which participants are often driven by challenging themselves and taking on tasks that may be beyond others. This is certainly the case for new Rocester manager Mark Wilson, who has left high-flying South Normanton Athletic to help keep his new charges in the Midland League Premier Division.

South Normanton currently sit second in the East Midlands Counties Premier Division, and have been tipped by many to secure promotion this season. The lure of Rocester and the challenge of reversing the clubs fortunes were too much for Wilson to ignore, however, especially as the third from bottom outfit sacked the previous incumbent Dave Shaw just two matches into the new season. The 36-year-old has now be officially charged with leading the club to safety, and he must overcome huge difficulties if he is to be successful in his endeavour.

Even book-makers who offer the best football odds may be hard pressed to make a case for Rocester’s survival, however, as it is so difficult to overcome such a morale-sapping start. Wilson’s decision has been made out of a love for the club and the area, however, and fans are hoping that this underlying sense of passion may be decisive in motivating the team’s under-performing players. “I live close to Rocester,” said Wilson. “I know quite a lot about them and have watched them many times.” This knowledge may also be key, as he looks to quickly assess his playing squad and create a winning formula on the pitch.

Whether he his successful or not remains to be seen, but it is certainly refreshing to see a manager motivated by hunger and passion rather than the desire to boost their earning or enjoy quick-fire success.