Popular physio Carol Holland admits that it has been a real wrench to leave Holbeach United.
Highly-regarded in the sports therapy field, Deeping-based Carol has decided to return to former club St Neots Town ahead of next season as she bids to push herself towards the ultimate goal – working at a Conference club.
The Saints finished in third place in the Southern League Premier Division last season, just missing out on promotion to step two of the non-league by virtue of a play-off final defeat.
That’s two levels higher than Holbeach’s current position in the UCL Premier Division – and proved a carrot too good for Carol to turn down. Fully qualified with the FA diploma, Carol is also recognised as an FA medical tutor. She had nine offers for next season, ranging from step two to step six.
But in the end it came down to a simple choice between Holbeach and St Neots.
And, despite the Tigers being the “best UCL club she’s ever worked for”, Carol will be working her magic at The Cosy Stadium next season.
“It was a very hard choice,” conceded the former Blackstones and Deeping Reserves physio. “I certainly didn’t decide to leave Holbeach lightly.
“It doesn’t always happen, but I felt – and still feel – very loyal to Holbeach. It’s a lovely club, certainly the best UCL club I’ve been at due to it having such a welcoming atmosphere. The fans and everyone associated with the club are great.
“But I’ve got these qualifications that I really need to put to good use and I didn’t really want to spend another year in the UCL.
“It’s important that I push myself to be better and keep on learning. I know that St Neots are using some fresh ideas and are looking at data to provide different ways to stop injuries happening.
“I’ve worked with St Neots before, but it’s a new set-up there now and was the best fit for me next season.
“My ultimate aim in football is to work at a Conference club. I couldn’t imagine going any higher than that – I like being in charge of the medical side of things and that wouldn’t happen there.
“I also wouldn’t get as much time with my family, which is very important to me.”
Whatever she goes on to do in football, Carol will always have fond memories of Carter’s Park – even if she does rate it as the most eventful year of her career.
She considers Holbeach’s campaign the worst year she can remember for injuries, while also admitting it was a something of a rollercoaster management-wise after seeing both Graham Drury and John Chand resign their positions as co-bosses.
Jonny Allen’s horrific broken leg in a 3-2 loss against Cogenhoe United was also an unwelcome new experience for her, while a string of nasty head injuries to striker Jamie Clarke will always live long in the memory.
Another moment Carol will never forget is receiving a special award at the club’s presentation night – something she really wasn’t expecting.
She added: “It was a very eventful season and I was kept very, very busy. I’d never really experienced anything like Jonny’s leg break – it wasn’t very nice.
“But you learn from these things. I’m just pleased to see him on the mend and can’t wait to see him back on the pitch.
“To get that award from the club was truly humbling and I was very touched. It also made me feel guilty for leaving! But it was just great to feel appreciated.
“The award will always have pride of place in my living room.”
Currently studying an MSc in football rehabilitation, Carol also specialises in medicine, acupuncture, strapping, taping and massage. She also works at Football CV Academy – who are moving from Corby to Stamford – during the day and does a regular clinic for Deepings Rugby Club.
But she’s promised to find time to visit Carter’s Park for Wednesday night games next season and is also keen to help out at the newly-built Holbeach United Community Sports Academy’s Kings Academy – and is already looking forward to it.
