Legend leaves Brakes legacy – Paul Holleran resigns as Leamington manager after 16 years

Chairman Jim Scott says legendary manager Paul Holleran has left a ‘lasting legacy’ at Leamington after he resigned as Brakes boss on Wednesday after a remarkable 16 years in charge.

Holleran has become synonymous with the club during one of the most successful periods in its history, with his reign lasting 5,893 days and 789 games in the hot-seat.

The 55-year-old confirmed his decision this week, citing the need for fresh ideas and a desire to focus on his health in the coming weeks.

Leamington sit bottom of the National League North after 23 games, eight points from safety and without a win in their last eight matches across all competitions.

Wonderful journey

In a club statement, Holleran said: “I have been on a wonderful journey with the football club and want to thank everyone for their fantastic support throughout my sixteen years.

“I just feel the time is right for someone else to take over the reins and provide fresh ideas and impetus within the dressing room.

“Allied to this I have a number of health appointments in the coming month and my focus in the short term has to be on looking after myself.”

Chairman Scott says Holleran will go down as a club legend.

FAREWELL, BOSS! Paul Holleran has left Leamington FC after 16 years in charge

PICTURE: Kieren Griffin

Return

He said: “We always knew this day would come and there are insufficient words to express our thanks for the fantastic contribution Paul has made to the club.

“He may have had the title ‘First Team Manager’ but for all the volunteers, fans and those who interacted with him within the club, his efforts went way beyond his job title and he has left a lasting legacy that is unlikely to be matched.”

The club added: “Following our discussions post his resignation, Paul has agreed in a number of weeks time to discuss options with the board of directors on a possible further role within the club.

“Current first team coach Chris Knott, who is an FA A license coach, and existing support staff will take interim charge of the team.”

Holleran could be open to a return to the New Windmill in a different capacity, having agreed to discuss his future with the board of directors in the coming weeks.

First-team coach Knott and other existing members of the backroom staff were due to take interim charge for the Brakes’ trip to Chorley yesterday, but the game was one of a number of postponements.