New Livingston Women’s boss Mike Ross admits he didn’t have to think twice about applying for the gig.
Ross takes over from Paul Jaconelli, who stood down after helping to secure the club’s promotion to SWPL2, and oversaw his first training session on Tuesday night as the players returned for pre-season.
The new gaffer boasts a wealth of experience in the game having coached at Spartans, Edinburgh University, Hutchison Vale and Boroughmuir Thistle as well as a stint in the States working in the New York Red Bulls’ youth section.
Speaking to the Courier, Ross admits that he was sold on the potential of the club and says the fact the Lionesses secured the SWF Championship title last term means there’s no need for sweeping changes either on or off the park.
He said: “The women’s section is still very young but in a short space of time they’ve made huge strides and that’s testament to everyone at the club, including Paul and Stevie (Dickov).
“When I saw that there was a vacancy, I didn’t even think twice about it and I’m delighted to have been offered the role. I’ve been fortunate enough to work with some very talented coaches and players and learned a lot throughout my career and I’m excited to be at Livingston.”
He added: “Part of the appeal was the fact that I’d already coached quite a few of the players and I know a lot of them.
“They did really well last year and the confidence is high going into the season but that’s a few weeks away yet. The early stages of pre-season will be all about getting to know the girls and the people at the club, both the first team but also development and youth level.”
Ross knows it will be a tougher challenge next term in the SWPL2 but says they are not interested in simply making up the numbers as they prepare for their first campaign in the second tier.
He said: “We’re realistic that it’s a totally different challenge this season and the standard will be higher but we want to progress and push on. We won’t be in the league just to make up the numbers.
“There’s a lot of good players and coaches at the club already – they have shown that by winning the league last season. There’s no need for drastic changes but it will take time for everyone to get used to me and vice versa.
“We’re all really excited for the challenge and can’t wait to get started.”
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