Rhodie looking to build on solid foundation set at Storrington

Rhodie, who has been a Swans player for ten seasons, made the step up into the vacant managerial post following Pete Matthews exit earlier this summer.

The 34-year-old was part of Matthews’ coaching team last term and admits management is always something he’s wanted to do.

Swans excelled last season and managed to finish fourth in Southern Combination League Division 1, just a place from promotion.

Rhodie knows Matthews will be a tough act to follow but hopes continued stability at the club can help him succeed.

He said: “I’m delighted to get the job and can’t wait to get started now. “Management is always something I’ve looked at doing and I can’t wait to get going.

“We done really well here last season and I know Pete will be a tough act to follow but I hope I can do well.

“I’ve been here for ten years, so to now get the manager’s job here is great for myself.”

Following Matthews exit, playing trio Josey Stakim, Gary Peters and Josh Gibbons also decided to move on.

But having kept the vast majority of Matthews’ squad together, Rhodie believes he can continue what was built last term.

He added: “We had a really good core squad here, then Pete brought some really talented players across with him aswell.

“It can be difficult to attract players with so many clubs in the area, so we may well have overachieved last year but I’ll be looking to secure something similar this year.

“It’s an exciting time ahead of my first senior management role and one I’m really looking forward to.”

Rhodie gets his managerial career underway with a home league clash against Saltdean United on Saturday.

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