Cheltenham Town have today confirmed that defender Aaron Downes is to become the new Head of Academy Coaching at the Robins.
Club captain Downes will now liaise directly between the first team and the Academy at all age groups and ensure the club’s coaching philosophy is passed down.
The 32-year-old will also continue to be part of the first team squad at the LCI Rail Stadium and be available for selection for the Robins.
“The manager and Academy Manager, Antoine Thompson, offered me the role of Head of Academy Coaching, liaising with the first team, and I accepted it straight away,” he said.
“I’m just starting out in my coaching career so I’m very honoured and thankful for the position. It’s a privilege to be trusted with the responsibility of the role. I feel it is a good fit and I know the manager’s expectations and philosophy.
“It doesn’t mean I’m fully yet and I’m still training every day. But the manager and I both know my playing time is going to be limited this season and the intention is to make a transition to coaching.
“With this opportunity, and having spoken to the manager, I know this is best way for me to move forward in my career.
“I still want to work with the first team defenders in helping them develop, but also I’m delighted to be trusted with this new role and to pass down the club’s philosophy through the entire coaching structure.”