JADE Guppy will stay on as Redditch United Women’s assistant manager this coming season after retiring from her playing career at the end of the previous campaign.
Former Reds captain Guppy confirmed her retirement as she awaits knee surgery and has since become assistant manager under boss Matt Bailey ahead of the 2024/25 season.
And Guppy is excited about her transition into coaching following a five-year spell with Redditch as a player.
Guppy said: “I’m looking forward to this new challenge being part of the management team. It’s a transition that I’m excited for and I can’t wait to get started.
“I think the main objective is to improve on last season. We understand we’ve under achieved over the last few seasons and as a club we have ambitions to push on and keep improving.
“I’m hoping I can use my experience as a player to motivate the squad alongside the current coaching staff. Having played a the club a long time I believe players will feed off my passion and enthusiasm to represent Redditch United.”
Following her retirement, Guppy reflected on her time with the Reds and insists the club will always have a special place in her heart.
Guppy said: “My time as a player at Redditch United has come to an end but the memories I’ve made here I’ll cherish forever.
“Moments such as beating Doncaster Belles in the Women’s FA Cup with crowds of 200-plus during a season fighting for promotion before the pandemic unfortunately dented our hopes and
experiencing relegation last season it’s been a journey of highs and lows.
“I’ve played with many players and under several coaches at the club and I’d like to thank everyone that’s been on this journey with me.
“Every time I put the Reds shirt on, I wore it with pride and for someone that’s been known as having more clubs than Tiger Woods, Redditch United will certainly always have a special place in my heart.
“Being captain comes with a lot of pressure but I’ve enjoyed every moment and it makes me very proud to have represented and lead the team.”
Redditch United Women begin their season against Crusaders in Women’s FA Cup First Round Qualifying on Sunday, September 1 with kick-off at 2pm at the Valley Stadium.
