Metro have appointed Neil Sykes as head coach of their Lotto NRFL Men’s Championship side for the next three seasons.
Sykes (48) replaces Scott Mackay who decided not to continue in the role at the end of last season.
Announcing Sykes’ appointment, Metro said:
“After taking a sabbatical from senior coaching to focus on youth development, Neil has decided that the time is right to return.
“He is excited about the potential and long-term ambitions of Metro FC and looks forward to further developing our relationship with Auckland City Football Club.”
Metro formed a partnership with Auckland City in 2019 to help develop junior and youth development, and the clubs announced they were extending their collaboration to senior football in 2022.
READ MORE: Metro and Auckland City work together to develop players >>>>
Sykes, a former Metro player, has recently coached youth teams at Western Springs and Fencibles United.
In a previous announcement, Metro had flagged the imminent change of coach, saying:
“Following the review of the 2023 NRFL Championship season and the challenge of rebuilding for 2024, Scott Mackay has informed the club of his decision to not continue in the role next year.
“Metro FC would like to thank Scott for his efforts during the past season, and note his commitment during what was a challenging season on the field with injuries, weather to name a few.
“Scott would like to thank the players, his management team, the committee and the club for their support and looks forward to seeing the future success of Metro FC.”
The club also sought applicants for NRFL Championship assistant coach(s), manager and goalkeeper coach roles.
These appointments are yet to be announced.
Championship clubs get new coaches
NORTHERN ROVERS have appointed Daniel Donegan as their first team men’s coach for next year.
READ MORE: Northern Rovers appoint Daniel Donegan as men’s head coach for next season >>>>
NORTH SHORE UNITED have named Dave Fahy as head coach of their 2024 squad.
READ MORE: Dave Fahy to lead North Shore United’s next NRFL Championship campaign >>>>
FENCIBLES UNITED have appointed Rhys Ruka as the head coach of their Lotto NRFL Men’s Championship side for next season.
READ MORE: Fencibles United unveil Rhys Ruka as men’s head coach for Championship >>>>
TAKAPUNA, relegated to the Championship from the Northern League, will have Daniel Semp as their head coach next season.
READ MORE: Takapuna name Daniel Semp as head coach for next year’s Championship season >>>>
MAP retain White and Jasper
MOUNT ALBERT PONSONBY have confirmed that Darren White (head coach) and Sam Jasper (assistant coach) will return for another Championship campaign in 2024.
READ MORE: White and Jasper to return for another crack at promotion to Northern League >>>>
2024 Lotto NRFL Men’s Championship
Teams to play in the 2024 Lotto NRFL Men’s Championship are: Ellerslie, Fencibles United, Franklin United (promoted), Hibiscus Coast, Manukau United (relegated from Northern League), Metro, Mt Albert Ponsonby, Northern Rovers, North Shore United, Onehunga Mangere United and Takapuna (relegated from Northern League).
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