Stop Out will have a new director of football and men’s first team coach next season after Alistair Yates’ decision to leave the club.
Yates has coached at the Wellington club since 2016 when he was appointed their U-17s coach.
Since then, he has held coaching roles with Stop Out’s U-19s, men’s reserves and for the last four seasons, the club’s Central League side.
He led Stop Out to the Men’s Capital Premier title in 2022 and won promotion to the Central League in a play-off with Whanganui Athletic.
Main photo: Alistair Yates … will wrap up his coaching roles at Stop Out in late October. Photo credit: Stop Out.
Announcing his pending departure, the club said: “Alistair’s commitment over the years to his team, players, and the wider club, is unrivalled.
“Alistair would be seen at every club event, always lending a hand. He wore the badge with pride and put his heart and soul into the club.”
Through the club’s social media channels, Yates thanked the club for their support.
“I’ve lived the dream, being able to work at the club I love. We’ve had some incredible moments and I leave with many fond memories,” he said.
“A big thank you to the people who have shared this journey with me, particularly in my four seasons as first team coach; Steve Guley, Chris Campbell and Paul Commerford have been absolutely immense with their support and friendship.
“I’m upset that it has ended with relegation to Central League 2, but ultimately the timing felt right for someone else to come in and take the reigns.
“I’ll be leaving with my head held high, confident that I have put my heart and soul into every day that I have been here. This is a special club and I will be a fan for life.”
Yates will wrap up his time with Stop Out following the Napier U-19 National Youth Championships in October.
The club said: “A massive thank you, Alistair, for everything you have done for the club, we are all going to miss your sideline sprints! Best wishes for wherever your footballing journey takes you next and know that Stop Out’s door is always open for you!”
This story was first published on September 24, 2024.