FORMER Terras commercial manager Fred Dunford has had a new role at the Wessex Stadium this week – as manager Steve Johnson’s assistant.
Dunford has been a key figure behind the scenes at Weymouth all week after winning a fundraising raffle.
The prize draw saw the lucky Weymouth Cougars under 14 manager involved in training sessions, carry out daily tasks and play a big part in preparations for today’s home clash with Eastbourne Borough.
Dunford, who helped pioneer the club’s Junior Terras club during the early 1990s, admits he has
relished his one-off involvement.
He said: “I’ve really enjoyed the last week and I’m looking forward to sitting on the bench with Steve and the rest of the staff today.
“It’s been a bit of an eye-opener and a great experience getting and insight into all the workings of the football club.”
What’s pleased me most if that when I won, I feared I might have a lot of standing around and not much involvement.”
But that hasn’t been the case at all Steve and the rest of the lads have made me really welcome even though this competition prize is just for this week only
“I’ve been up to training a couple of times where Steve got meinvolved in the coaching side of things and also asked my opinion on a few team matters.
“Steve told the players to treat me as they treat him. which was nice because he didn’t have to say that.
“Steve impressed me over the course of the week – the players have great respect for him and the team spirit in the dressing room is excellent.”
After being on the bench for the midweek 3-0 Sammy McGowan Cup win over Portland, Dunford is hoping to end his reign today with a 100 per cent record.
The Aston Villa fan, who was commercial manager with the Terras for five years, admits he has picked up for a few tips for the Weymouth Cougars under 14 side he manages.
“I’m a big believer in promoting youth football and it’s great to see the amount of younger players Steve has involved with the first team now,” he said.
“They are the future and hopefully we’ll get what will be a crucial win against Eastbourne today”
Johnson said he came up with the idea for a fan to win a week behind the scenes.
“I wanted to give whoever won the competition a chance to gain a real insight into the club they support” he said.”
It has been great having Fred involved and I’ve tried to give him an input – he’s a passionate fan and I hope he feels it has been a positive experience.”
