NPL Division One East
Neil Sibson says it is the right moment for him to step down as manager of Yorkshire Amateur.
Sibson, who has been replaced by former Darlington striker Nathan Cartman, insists his decision to quit is unrelated to the club’s demotion to Step 4.
He cites personal and work commitments as the reason for his exit from Bracken Edge.
“I was extremely upset (about the club’s relegation) and it was like someone had ripped the inside of me out,” Sibson told Non League Yorkshire.
“But, to be quite honest with you, I was looking at having some time out anyway.
“I have a six-month-old baby plus there’s other family and work reasons as to why (I have made the decision).
“i’ve enjoyed my time running the team and I feel I can leave with my head held high after two promotions and putting my heart and soul into the club whilst I’ve been involved.
“It has been stressful (during the last five years), but we’ve had some good lads, good backing and success.
“But it is time to step away and concentrate on my family.”
Sibson worked his way up the junior ranks to the first team job after starting out at Bracken Edge as the under 12s manager.
His appointment in 2017 coincided with the start of the most successful period in the club’s history.
Alongside joint manager Phil Harding, Sibson guided Ammers to promotion out of the NCEL Division One.
Then, with Craig Ogilvie, who became joint manager in 2020, Sibson steered the Ammers into the Northern Premier Division for the first time in their history last year.
With so much successful, there’s loads of memories to look back on.
“The highlight for me was first of all getting invited to manage (the first team) alongside Phil Harding after a successful time with the under 21s who had just won their league,” he said.
“It was an honour and privilege to be asked.
“We achieved two promotions and I’m really proud of my achievements.
“The Eccleshill game which clinched the first promotion stands out.
“We had to win our last seven games to win promotion (in 2018) and we sealed it at Eccleshill.
“That was a great night for the club.
“The other highlight was when we went up thanks to our points-per-game ratio.”
Sibson also had a couple of personal thank you’s.
“I want to thank (former chairman) Andy Kendall-Jones for his backing,” he said.
“In my opinion, the club wouldn’t have reached they have without him.
“Working alongside Craig (Ogilvie) has been a real highlight so I must thank him as well.
“He’s a fantastic coach and person.”
Cartman was Sibson and Ogilvie’s assistant during the final six months of the campaign and the departing boss is backing him to a success.
“Nathan wants to have a go at management and I think it is the perfect opportunity and level for him to cut his teeth in management,” Sibson added.
“He’s a really good coach and person.
“His man management skills are fantastic and I think the club is in safe hands.
“I wish him all the best.
“The club is in great hands with a hard working and willing committee who I’m sure will bring further success to the club
“I would also like to thank the volunteers at the club old and new who have gone above and beyond their duties to ensure the club can function.
“Last but not least, I would like to thank every single player who has represented the club whilst I’ve been at the helm they have all been a credit to Yorkshire Amateur and I wish them all the best .
“I’ll always look out for their results.
“Time to put my feet up and concentrate on family.”