Nathan Leonard appointed as Newtown AFC manager
Newtown AFC has appointed Nathan Leonard as the men's first team manager following the football club's relegation from the JD Cymru Premier for the first time in their history.
Former assistant manager Leonard, who was described as an "outstanding" candidate during a recent "rigorous" recruitment process, returns to Latham Park after a short stint as first team coach at JD Cymru North side Gresford Athletic.
Newtown AFC said Leonard, also known as 'Lenny', made a lasting impression on the selection panel with his "passion for the game, deep understanding of the Welsh football landscape and compelling vision for the future".
He was the long-serving manager of JD Cymru North side Guilsfield until June last year before taking on the role as former Robins manager Scott Ruscoe 's assistant.
Newtown AFC chairman Nick Evans said: "We're thrilled to welcome Lenny to Newtown.
"His interview was exceptional, and he demonstrated a clear, ambitious plan for how he wants to develop the team both on and off the pitch.
"His values align closely with the club's identity and aspirations and we're confident he is the right person to lead us into the next chapter of our journey."
Leonard, who's the club's third manager since January last year, will begin his duties with immediate effect, starting preparations for the upcoming season and meeting with players, staff and supporters in the coming weeks.
Leonard is the son of ex-Newtown player Carleton Leonard who also represented Shrewsbury Town and Hereford United.
Leonard's arrival comes after the departure of first team manager Callum McKenzie in April after assisting former managers Chris Hughes, Bernard McNally and Darren Ryan over the past decade.
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