DARREN FREEMAN says he has turned down offers from higher divisions to try and lead Lewes back to the Ryman Premier at the first time of asking.
Former Whitehawk and Peacehaven & Telscombe boss Freeman joined struggling Lewes in October and despite an upturn in performances, he ultimately couldn't save the club from relegation to Step 4.
Despite that, the Rooks' board was impressed by Freeman, his assistant Ross Standen and coach Tony Coade and the trio have all signed one-year contracts.
Seven years after plying their trade in the Conference Premier, Lewes will be starting next season in the Ryman South but Freeman wants to take the East Sussex club back up the Non-League Pyramid.
“The board have shown a lot of faith in me, Ross and Codge, and we're delighted to sign for next season,” the boss told the club's website.
“I've had a couple of job offers from clubs in a higher division in recent months, but staying here at Lewes was a no-brainer.
“Our main priority is to get back to the Ryman Premier, but long-term we want to put this club into the Conference. Now we can't wait for the season to start again.”
Freeman, who led Whitehawk up the divisions from the Sussex County League to the Conference South, left Peacehaven to take the reins at Lewes.
He took charge of a side that had won just once in the league and were second bottom of the table in the Ryman Premier.
While their Step 3 status couldn't be preserved, the Lewes board have opted to hand Freeman the chance to take the club straight back up.
“Darren, Ross and Tony have made a massive impact since arriving at The Pan last year and I believe we have one of the best managerial teams in Non-League football,” said chairman Stuart Fuller.
“I've been impressed by the way they have approached the job with enthusiasm, drive and professionalism. It is a real pleasure to work with them and all of their hard work will pay off, of that I am sure.
“I'm very excited for the start of the new season with the squad we have built, and now with an excellent management team who we believe are here for the long term.”
