Change of first team manager announced at Porthmadog FC

Porthmadog FC have announced a change of first team manager.

Craig Papirnyk will step down from the role after the Boxing Day derby against Bangor 1876 and is to be replaced by Stephen “Midge” Williams.

Papirnyk first took over as Porthmadog manager in 2014-15. He left at the end of 2018-19 but returned the following season as assistant to Sion Eifion Jones before taking over as main manaager again in November 2019.

Port were relegated from the Cymru North at the end of 2019-20, but after the 2020-21 campaign was cancelled due to Covid, Papirnyk led the club back to Tier 2 at the first attempt in 2021-22 as they won the Ardal Northern promotion play-off 5-0 against Caersws.

The Traeth men finished 11th in the Cymru North last season and are currently in 12th spot.

A Porthmadog FC statement said today: “Craig Papirnyk and the club’s Board of Directors have jointly agreed to release Craig from his role as first team manager of Porthmadog FC..

“As a board we would sincerely and wholeheartedly like to thank Craig for all his hard work and dedication over the past nine years with the club.

“Due to a number of factors which include family and new work commitments, we all agree now is the right time for a change.

“This will allow the new manager a full transfer window in January 2024 to strengthen the squad in preparation for the second half of the season.

“Craig will take charge of his final home game against Bangor 1876 on December 26th at Y Traeth.

“Stepping into the first team manager role is Stephen “Midge” Williams. Stephen is well qualified for the job as he has a UEFA A coaching licence , and has an array of contacts in senior and junior football.

“As a club we wish him every success in his new role and ask you to support him as he prepares to take the club forward.”