Stark set for Kilby
New gaffer will bring a wealth of experience to club
Billy Stark insists he was blown away by East Kilbride FC’s ambition after agreeing to become the club’s new manager.
Kilby unveiled the former Celtic and Aberdeen star at K-Park on Friday afternoon in what is quite a coup for the Lowland League outfit.
Stark, 60, has just spent two seasons as assistant to Darren Young at League One Albion Rovers.
Young was keen to take Stark to East Fife after replacing Barry Smith at New Bayview but the prospect of bringing SPFL football to East Kilbride for the first time in the town’s history was too good to turn down.
“Darren wanted to take me to East Fife,” Stark said yesterday.
“It was about seeing what options were out there. East Kilbride wanted to speak to me and I went there with an open mind.
“They blew me away with their ambition and the set-up and infrastructure that they’ve got.
“The ultimate aim is to get into league football. You would be silly to talk that down as the club has made significant progress in a few years.”
Stark continued: “East Kilbride have come further than they would have expected in such a short space of time.
“But as you get older, you learn and my ambition is just to win the next game.
“It would be fantastic for the town if league football came to the town considering how the town has grown over the years. There is potential.”
Stark’s first competitive match in charge will be the Betfred Cup derby clash with Premiership Hamilton Accies.
“I think the players have earned the right to play in that competition,” he added.
“You want to be judging yourself against league opposition and we will learn so much.
“It’s about being able to compete over 90 minutes in these games.”
Stark is taking his time with regards appointing an assistant. Pre-season training begins next Monday night.
Kilby chairman Mark Horner is delighted with Stark’s appointment.
He said: “For us to secure Billy as our new manager is a real coup for East Kilbride. Everyone in Scottish football is aware of his pedigree and reputation as one of the best coaches in our game.
“We are delighted to welcome him to K-Park.”