by Andrew Tidswell
Elite Sports Academy MD and Holbeach Utd player
This week I took the chance to talk to Tom Roberts, the new assistant manager of Holbeach United, about the differences between Sunday and Saturday football.
Tom is manager of Pinchbeck United Sunday – and is on-course to become the first-ever Spalding Sunday League manager to win the Lincs FA Sunday Cup.
He recently decided to take on the role of Darren Jarvis’ number two at Carter’s Park.
AT: What’s the main differences you have noticed in your short time between Saturday football and the Sunday football?
TR: Obviously the organisation, professionalism and fitness required to play is stronger on a Saturday than a Sunday.
The lads in the Sunday teams are often close friends and ability doesn’t come into it so much.
On a Saturday there is never an easy game regardless of who you’re playing, whereas on a Sunday you could end up winning 21-0.
AT: What are the ambitions for you and Darren Jarvis for the remainder of the season – and potentially next season too?
TR: First of all, it’s about steadying the ship and getting everyone back playing with a smile on their face and having a feel good factor.
In the coming weeks some faces will be added to strengthen the team as it has been left a bit bare due to many departures.
In the long term, however, the big aim is to build the football club from within, which means giving the youngsters a chance from the youth system and to also give opportunities and bringing together many talented players we already have in this area.
AT: Do you see yourself in UCL management for the long term?
TR: You never know what the future holds, but for the meantime I’m happy to have this opportunity at a fantastic football club.
AT: What’s it like dealing with players at this level?
TR: Being an assistant, you can look to engage the players in more a friendly atmosphere and be the one to listen to them as well as give advice back.
The current dressing room we have has really taken to the tasks we have set very well.
AT: How easy was it to agree to being Darren Jarvis’ assistant?
TR: It’s been relatively easy making the step up as there are already so many great people involved at Holbeach United.
It is like a full-time job – albeit a very enjoyable one – as I am always on the phone talking to people and sorting things out.
