It’s been Dee-lightful

It’s been Dee-lightful

25 April 2012

DEE Heron, Killyleagh’s greatest manager, has announced his retirement after 20 memorable years in charge.

Heron told the players of his decision just before Saturday’s home game against Newington YC.

His last match in charge will be this Saturday against Nortel and it’s bound to be an emotional occasional

He will be replaced in The Showgrounds hot seat by Bobby Murphy and Philip Jennings.

During his two decades in charge, Heron picked up an amazing 14 trophies, including a never-to be-forgotten six Amateur League Premier Section wins in a row.

The gaffer of gaffers took over the reins at Killyleagh in 1992 after an illustrious playing career .

His honours included seven Amateur League titles, the Steel and Sons Cup, three Border Cups and three Clarence Cups. If that isn’t impressive enough, Heron also led the side to the semi-finals of the Irish Cup, another Steel and Sons Cup final, two more Border Cup finals and an Intermediate Cup semi-final.

He also lost out on winning the Premier Section title on the last day of the season on three separate occasions

His first piece of silverware came after the end of his first season in 1993 when he lifted the Jefferson Cup for winning the Premier Section title and he never looked back.

He led Killyleagh to Border Cup success in 1997, 2003 and 2004, Clarence Cup glory in 1998, 2001 and 2002.

The Steel and Sons Cup finally was secured in 2002 and league titles came in 1993, 2000, 2001, 2002, 2003, 2004 and 2005.

There is no doubt that Heron will miss Killyleagh and Killyleagh will miss him, but he believes that the time is right for a change at the top.

“It is the right time for me to step down and I couldn’t have asked for a better replacement team than Bobby Murphy, Philip Jennings and Brian Strain. I know I am leaving the club in good hands.

“I intend getting more involved with the youth set-up at the club and maybe after a year or two out of the limelight, I just might make a comeback.

“I am Killyleagh through and through and there are plenty of good young players coming through the ranks.

“We have had some great times at the club and I firmly believe that more good times lie ahead. I am looking forward to taking a back seat and intend going for an operation on my knees.

“Who knows what the future holds, but one thing for certain is that I will always put Killyleagh YC first, second and third.”