His stint with the Everton International Academy might just come in handy for the newly appointed head coach of Ashford Athletic, Shane Petersen who is trying to further develop his coaching career.
“Yeah, I’m sure my four-month coaching experience in the USA with Everton will be beneficial, you know,” Petersen revealed to No Bones with Jones. “We travelled over eight states which are far apart, but it was a real eye opener – a different culture and environment.
“The opportunity just popped up. I was recommended by someone from South Africa that did that same course a few years prior to me going. I went through online interviews, zoom calls etc.and they liked my CV & qualifications…
“But my focus is with the blue of Ashford now and not Everton. So, I’ll have to draw on those overseas experiences. So, I don’t take this journey lightly, you know. It’s a massive opportunity and one I’m really excited about. I know there’s pressure because the club had a strong season last year, but I see that as motivation rather than a burden.
“My focus is on building a hardworking, united team with a clear identity and helping the players improve every day. Results are important, of course, but if we get the culture, commitment, and standards right, the results will follow. I’m grateful for the opportunity, ready for the challenge, and looking forward to seeing what we can achieve together,” Petersen added.
After finishing in an impressive fourth position in their debut campaign last season under he guidance of Curtley Daniels who is now with Rygersdal FC, the 33-year-old Petersen from Ocean View, is well aware that everyone at “The Bridge,” the home of Ashford.
Needless to say, it can be a hostile venue at times which can make or break any player or coach. Petersen is well aware the pressure is on as the Ashford faithful are eyeing for an improvement in their second season for sure.
“Look, the expectations don’t change how we’ll approach things. We’ll focus on the work, take it one game at a time, and make sure the team represents the club in the right way. The rest will take care of itself,” he concluded.
Petersen started his senior coaching career with Seaside as assistant to Stober when they were still competing in Safa Cape Town’s Third Division. Prior to that u10 Seaside and Football4All with George Dearnaley and Stober. During his playing days, Petersen featured for clubs like Milano, Vasco Da Gama, Glendene United, The Magic FC as well as a short stint in the Cambodian Pro League.
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