In a significant change for Jeanfield Swifts AFC, Mark Allison has taken the helm as the club's new manager, succeeding his close friend and mentor, Jimmy. We recently had the opportunity to sit down with Mark to discuss his thoughts on stepping into this leadership role, his ambitions for the team, and his early assessment of the squad as they prepare for the upcoming season.

How did you feel when you were offered the manager job at Jeanfield Swifts?

"First of all, it was a bit of a shock when I heard Jimmy was looking to step down as manager," Mark shared, reflecting on the moment that changed the course of his career. "He is one of my closest friends, and it was a pleasure to work alongside him for several years where I learned so much. However, when the chance came to step up and take over as manager, I didn’t need to think twice about it. Football is a big passion of mine, and having the opportunity to lead this great club to even more success is one I couldn’t turn down."

What do you want to achieve as a manager?

Mark's vision for Jeanfield Swifts is clear and uncompromising. "As manager at Jeanfield, there is only one thing I want to achieve, and that is to be successful," he asserted. "Whatever competition we play in, I want to win—that’s all that matters. This is the mentality I’ve had from a young age when I played for many years myself, and it’s something that I’m looking to embed into the team. I truly believe if I can gain the buy-in from the players, they trust the process, and everyone approaches each training session and game with the right mindset, then we will be successful."

What are your expectations for the team this season (short-term) and long-term goals?

Mark has ambitious goals for the team, both in the short and long term. "Over the last month or so in pre-season, recruitment was a key priority of mine. Thankfully, I’ve managed to add some very talented players to the squad, increasing our quality both on and off the ball. I truly believe that with the mix of youth and experienced players, we can go on to push for the league and every other domestic cup available. I also have a lot of respect for the teams who compete in the North of Tay and Scottish cups, but I see no reason why we can’t compete with the best teams across Dundee, Fife, and Glasgow and go as far as possible."

Preseason Assessment: How do you assess the team’s performance during preseason?

"For me, Preseason is always an exciting time of the year—maybe that’s because I don’t need to join in the running anymore," Mark joked. On a more serious note, he added, "It was great to see how the new boys have settled in and what the overall squad has to offer. To be honest, I couldn’t have asked for it to go any better, winning 5 out of 6 games where the players did everything I asked of them both in training and during each game. Fitness levels are good, and we have been playing some really good football, so the early signs look promising. However, I’m not getting carried away as there’s still a long way to go, starting with our first competitive game this Saturday."

Team Dynamics: How would you describe the team's atmosphere and dynamics during preseason?

Mark is particularly pleased with the team’s atmosphere heading into the new season. "The buzz about the place is the best I’ve seen in the last 6 or 7 years I’ve been involved in amateur football. A mixture of different personalities in the changing room this season has really helped to create this. I love how everyone at the club is pulling in the same direction, and I couldn’t have asked for more so far. We have created an environment that is enjoyable to be part of while ensuring the professionalism of each player remains at all times."

As Mark Allison embarks on this new chapter with Jeanfield Swifts AFC, his passion, ambition, and clear vision for success set an exciting tone for the future. With a strong preseason under their belt and a cohesive team ready to compete, fans of Jeanfield Swifts can look forward to what promises to be an exhilarating season under their new manager's leadership.

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