Grays Athletic are delighted to announce the appointment of Jamie Stuart as the new Manager of the football club. He will take up this position immediately.

A club spokesman said “After interviewing a number of candidates it was clear in our mind that Jamie was the ideal person to move the club forward. His passion for Grays Athletic, coupled with his professionalism and the contacts he has in the game, made him the ideal choice”

Jamie’s achievements in the game as a professional footballer and during an illustrious career in the non-league arena are well documented. After starting his career at Charlton Athletic, he also played for Southend United, Millwall and Bury. After dropping into non-league football he was a highly respected player at Hornchurch, Rushden & Diamonds, AFC Wimbledon, Sutton and most recently Margate. Jamie represented England at under-18 and under-21 level, as well as being selected for England National Game XI

Our fans will not need reminding that Jamie spent the longest period of his career in our colours, having joined in November 2004. During his five seasons he was an integral part of the team that won the Conference South, two FA Trophies and competed in the Conference National Play-offs. He made 229 appearances and captained the side in 2007/08 and 2008/09 seasons. He was also the club’s Player Of The Year in 2007/08.

On accepting the role Jamie said " I'm very excited to be given the opportunity to manage Grays Athletic FC. I did have various options and a number of other clubs were interested, but my mind was made up as soon as this position became available.
I had the best time of my career playing for Grays and met and made some good friends at the club. Grays Athletic feels like home to me and I'm very excited and keen to get back and start the ball rolling in July .
I have already started making preparations for next season. I'm currently talking to players, arranging pre-season friendlies etc. I've always worn my heart on my sleeve as a player and always give my everything. I believe at 39 with my experience and contacts in football I can be a successful manager for Grays.
I'm interviewing personnel, coaches, assistants and Physios. And will take my time and make sure I make the right decisions. I've got some very good people around me who want to help me bring back the happy memories we had at Grays with promotions, FA trophy wins to name a few.
I know it's going to be a tough task but there is no one more ambitious and hungry than me.I hope to arrange a supporters Q&A within the coming weeks.
I cannot wait to come home to the club I love."

News of Jamie’s management and coaching team will be announced in due course.
We are sure that this appointment will be widely welcomed by our supporters and we are sure that they will join us in giving Jamie a very warm welcome to the club.