Staunton returns to lead Under-19s

Former Yeovil Town captain Josh Staunton has returned to Huish Park to lead the club’s Under-19s side.

In an announcement on Friday, the club confirmed the return of the 30-year-old, who retired from playing last month.

The defender/midfielder, who had one game in temporary charge of the first team at the end of the 2021-22 season, has been appointed as Under-19s Operations Lead – which we assume is a managerial role.

In an announcement, the club added: “In his new role, Staunton will work closely with the Academy Manager and coaching staff, supporting the day-to-day operation of the Under 19s programme and helping to drive the academy’s long-term development plans, ensuring young players are given the best possible environment to progress.”

Staunton said:

“I’m incredibly proud and excited to be returning to Yeovil Town and to be working with the Under 19s programme. I’ve seen the plans for the future and I’m really looking forward to helping produce local talent capable of stepping into first team environments. Yeovil has always meant a great deal to me, and I’m passionate about supporting young players both on and off the pitch. I’m excited to work closely with the academy manager and coaching staff to help players reach their potential.”

The Under-19s have enjoyed a decent start to this season in the National League Under-19s Alliance. Read all about it in our review of their season so far – here.

Staunton has also been appointed a trustee at the Yeovil Town Community Sports Trust. The Trust currently lists Executive Chairman Stuart Robins, former Glovers’ CEO Martyn Starnes, ex-Commercial Manager Danny Linney and Johanna Harris, a teacher at Bucklers Mead Academy, as its other trustees.

A statement posted on the Trust’s social media adds…..

In addition to his Trustee role, Josh will also take up the position of U19/Post-16 Operations Lead. In this capacity, he will work closely with the Academy Manager to oversee the strategic and operational delivery of the post-16 pathway, ensuring high standards across football, education, and player welfare. He will also play a key role in supporting coaching staff, embedding best practice, and helping young players transition successfully both within football and into wider career opportunities.

Speaking on the appointment, Martyn Starnes, Chariman of the Board of Trustees, said:
“Josh embodies everything we stand for as an organisation. He has been an exceptional servant to Yeovil Town Football Club and an outstanding advocate for the community. His experience, leadership, and values will be invaluable as we continue to grow our provision and strengthen our pathways for young people.”

Welcome back, Staunts!