By Isle of Wight Observer
Long-serving Cowes Sports stalwart Ian Potts has switched camps to become Richie Woodburn’s assistant at East Cowes Vics.
Potts had been on the coaching staff of Cowes – known as the Yachtsmen – for about 12 years, and even had one spell as caretaker manager of the Wessex League, Premier Division outfit, ironically after Woodburn left the club.
But now Potts (pictured) has decided to link up again with Woodburn, who took over at Vics during last season after a spell out of the game. Potts, known in Island football as ‘Mr Cowes Sports’ for his affinity to the club, said: “I wasn’t really involved much at all last season, and after a break for these past few months I decided it was time for a change.
“I work with Richie away from football, and we are good mates. He has been on at me for a while to join him, so I decided I would give it a go. I took over as Yachtsmen’s caretaker when Richie left the club in 2017, and working with him was always an enjoyable time, including getting promoted from the Wessex League One to the Premier League.
“Now I am ready for a new challenge. I know Richie has high hopes for Vics, and the aim will be to get them into the Premier League, just as we did for Cowes when we were together there. I have certainly got my hunger and drive back.
“I am excited to be working with Richie and the whole of East Cowes Vics. They have a great set-up and are dedicated to progressing the club in a new direction.”
Woodburn and Potts are now busy securing players for the new season, and have already persuaded both Tyler Greenslade and Liam Newbold to re-sign for another season.
