REPORT BY: MATTHEW LAMBE

AFTER four successful seasons as coach/co-manager of the Baht’atters Seconds, James Hirst is stepping down from his managerial role.

During this time, he has overseen the development of a transitioning side, which boasts one of the youngest squads in the West Yorkshire Division One. Not only this, Hirst has also played in goal regularly, playing an instrumental role in the cup run leading to winning the Wharfedale District Cup this season.

Summarising his time as a player and manager at Ilkley Town AFC, Hirst said: ‘It has been and continues to be a special time. Joining the club over 15 years ago as a young goalkeeper and playing around 400 games is something you only fully appreciate when you reflect. Winning promotions and cups are always highlights, but also, it’s important to recognise challenging times. It’s in these moments you realise that this is where you grow and learn - just as a player but as a person.”

He added: “Stepping up as a coach with the 2nd team over the past four seasons was a great learning experience for me, then this year as co-manager with Jamie Stones. It’s been a great season from every point of view, winning the cup and potentially gaining promotion [to the West Yorkshire Premier League] in our debut season as managers. It’s a real honour and privilege to have contributed to that.’

The success of the 2022/23 season for the Seconds cannot be understated, finishing 4th in West Yorkshire Division One being one of only two reserves teams in the league (meaning the team is constantly changing) alongside winning the Wharfedale District Cup. Hirst was influential in the Cup success, not only as a co-manager but as a player too; in the semi-final against higher league opposition - Pool AFC - he saved two penalties, before keeping a clean sheet against Ventus Yeadon Celtic in the final.

This season was especially rewarding from Hirst’s perspective: “The most amazing part for me was to see my family watch and have my son and daughter be at an age where they’ll remember watching Daddy play football. I’ll always be grateful of this.”

Hirst attributes the success of the team to their ability to adapt, change and improve in all areas on and off the field.

He said: “We always look to improve all areas of our game. A couple of defining moments of the season were in fact the toughest, and the extra strength and fitness sessions that really instilled a mental resilience and unity for the players. We adapted our approach tactically better on away games, by keeping the message simple and focused getting the best out of every individual as well as a clear collective effort. In addition to this, Jamie had used our match highlights to share with the players our reflections and analysis. This was a great tool to use to improve our performances.

“We built on the areas we get right, whilst not shying away from opportunities to improve. We’ve helped this young talented group of players to be better footballers, and reaped the rewards of seeing the players grow into mature and resilient young men. Some of whom are only 16 years old! It’s crazy to think I’ve played football for longer.”

However, Hirst isn’t stepping away from the club completely. While he is finishing his managerial duties in order to focus on his family and businesses, he will be continuing as a player. Whether or not the Baht’atters Seconds will be playing in the Premier or First Division (as promotion is still yet to be determined) Hirst will extend his 15 years of service to the club.