After nearly three and a half years, 169 games, 107 wins and 531 goals scored, Carl Abbott has today stepped down as manager of Hinckley AFC.
Carl has been the club’s only manager since its formation in 2014, and has been instrumental in the rise of the club’s profile.
Improvements have been made season-on-season with Carl at the helm, from a 27-match unbeaten run in season one, to winning the Jelson Homes Senior Cup in season two and recording a league-best second placed finish, reaching the Buildbase FA Vase last 16 and the Polymac Packaging League Cup final in season three.
He has also overseen progress to the qualifying rounds of the Emirates FA Cup twice in three seasons, a remarkable feat for a step six club.
He was also the influence behind many of the club’s off-field initiatives. He was the leading figure in wearing a pink kit last season to commemorate World Cancer Day after the passing of Simon Blyth, and so fond was he of Simon that he presented his Senior Cup winners medal to him in 2016.
On his departure, Carl said: “It has been my pleasure to have represented you as manager. I have a deep affection for this football club and the people involved, both still here and no longer with us. You have left a lasting impression on me and I hope I will be welcome at the club to support the team with you in the future.
“At a time where a little appetite for change has been voiced, I have an opportunity to move on to a club at a higher level and I feel the time is right for me to take on that challenge, allowing for fresh impetus here.
“This has been a heart-wrenching decision. From the bottom of my heart, I thank all associated with the club for the opportunity and support.”
A full statement from Carl will follow shortly.
Chairman Steve Jelfs said: “I am bitterly disappointed that Abbo has decided to call time on his spell at the club, although I fully understand and respect his reasons for doing so.
“Carl has been an immense manager for this football club. I don’t think many supporters understand the hours that he has put in behind the scenes to ensure the club puts out a team on a Saturday that plays an exciting brand of football and our supporters enjoy watching.
“His influence here goes far beyond what is normally expected of a football manager. He will be sorely missed and very difficult to replace.
“I’m sure he will receive a warm welcome whenever and however our paths cross again.”
Everyone at the club would like to thank Carl for his dedication and contribution to Hinckley AFC during his time at the club, and we wish him nothing but the very best of luck for the future.
#ThanksAbbo
