Stalwart defender John Waldock has ended his ten-year association with Weymouth.
The former skipper, who has played more than 350 games for the Terras, has joined Sydenhams Wessex Division One outfit Hamworthy United on a free transfer.
The 29-year-old, who moves to the County Ground following the appointment of new boss Garry Hill, wants to revive his playing career having gone into semi-retirement through injury two years ago.
He told Echosport: “I’ve been player-coach at Weymouth for the last couple of seasons and have really enjoyed my time in that role.
“But I just feel that with Garry coming into the club, now is the right time to move on.
“I spoke to Garry when he arrived at the club and he was very good in saying he was happy for me to remain at the club.
“But I’d like to start playing again and moving to Hamworthy United will allow me to do that.
“I suppose this is the end of an era because I’ve had ten fantastic years with Weymouth, first as a player and then as player-coach.
“The fans and people at the club have been terrific during that time and I’m certainly going to miss them, that’s for sure.
“But they say all good things come to an end and I’m guessing this is that time.
“I have to say though that based on my conversation with
him, I’m convinced Garry Hill is the man to take Weymouth on to bigger and better things.
“I’m as much a fan as anyone and nothing will bring me more joy than watching the team from the terraces back in the Conference or even higher.
“Appointing Garry was an inspired choice by the board and I’m convinced he is the man for the job.”
Waldock is set to make his debut for the east Dorset side in the Wessex League at home to Winchester City this weekend.
And the moves sees the popular former Sunderland trainee reunite with some familiar faces.
Tips
“Some of the lads at Hamworthy are old Weymouth team-mates like Kevin Gill and Anthony Tilley, and I also know their manager Kevin Pike and coach Phil Simkin from his days at Dorchester,” he said.
“I’m looking forward to the challenge – Hamworthy are looking to progress and playing at that level will allow me to really enjoy my football again.
“Hopefully I’ll also be able to pass on a few tips to some of the younger lads, while also learning from the experience myself:
“I’ll still follow Weymouth though and, who knows, I may be back in one capacity or another some day.
“In the meantime, I’d like ‘to thank the fans and staff at the Wessex for their support over the years and wish everyone all the best.”
