Smith steps down as Fort William co-manager
FORT William FC co-manager Ali Smith stepped down from his role this week due to family and work commitments.
Smith has decided to step down but fellow co-manager Paul MacLellan is expected to remain at the helm.
Smith said: ‘I just decided this was the right time to step down. It has been a long, tough season and, as well as needing to concentrate on my work commitments and after getting married in October, I promised my wife I’d spend a bit more time on family stuff.’
Smith and MacLellan took charge at Claggan Park last summer, following the departure of Ally Ewen to Lossiemouth, and have endured a testing season of poor results amid uncertainty over the club’s future.
However, Smith says he is excited about the seasons ahead after the club announced last week that they will remain in the Highland League next season, rather than drop down to the North Caledonian League, following the resignation of five directors.
Encouraged by the way Fort finished the campaign, having narrowly missed out on recording their first win of the season against Keith last Wednesday night, Smith says there is a positive atmosphere at the club now.
‘I’ve really enjoyed it and I think with the new committee now in place, the club is well placed for the future’ he added.
‘There’s a hugely positive atmosphere about the ground and I think that bodes well for a good future for the club.’