George Elokobi will step down as Maidstone United supervisor at the end of the season.
George has taken the choice to go away Maidstone United at the end of his contract. The membership has big respect for him and was eager to retain his companies. Club funds are below strain and negotiations over the sale, which may probably enhance the enjoying finances, are taking longer than anticipated. George and his administration group have reiterated their dedication to ending the season in the highest attainable place.
From title‑successful captain to FA Cup historical past‑making supervisor, it has been a memorable seven years for the Stones boss. When George arrived at the Gallagher Stadium in the summer season of 2019, it was anticipated to be solely a one‑season keep. However, such was the prompt connection between him and the membership’s supporters that there was no hesitation in extending his time at the membership.
As membership captain, his management abilities got here to the fore, combining first‑group duties with a training and mentoring position at Maidstone United’s Football Academy. A main instance of that mentoring position got here throughout the Covid lockdowns, when George hosted Zoom calls and led residence exercises with college students to assist preserve their psychological and bodily wellbeing.
In the first full season after Covid restrictions had been lifted, the Stones received the National League South championship, with George and vice‑captain Gavin Hoyte lifting the trophy in entrance of a promote‑out Gallagher Stadium. That last recreation of the season additionally marked George’s last enjoying look, capped off with a aim and a guard of honour from each Maidstone and Hampton & Richmond gamers.
Following his retirement from enjoying, George continued in his academy position, however a brand new problem arrived in January 2023. Installed as caretaker supervisor, his first match got here simply days later in a penalty shoot‑out victory in opposition to Notts County in the FA Trophy.
The caretaker position quickly turned everlasting and, following the membership’s return to the National League South, George and assistant supervisor Craig Fagan set about rebuilding a squad from the floor up – a process they might repeat the following season and once more this 12 months. That work resulted in a play‑off semi‑last look in 2023/24 and progress one stage additional final season.
If one occasion is to outline George Elokobi’s time at Maidstone United, it has to be the unimaginable FA Cup run of two seasons in the past. The Stones turned the lowest‑ranked facet since 1978 to attain the final 16 of the world‑well-known competitors.
What began on a sunny September afternoon at Steyning Town in the second qualifying spherical resulted in the fifth spherical at the residence of now Premier League‑sure Coventry City. Along the manner had been victories over League One and League Two opposition, earlier than Maidstone pulled off one of the largest shocks in FA Cup historical past by defeating Ipswich Town away in the fourth spherical.
That astonishing run put the membership firmly on the map, attracting consideration from America to Australia and past. While there was nationwide and worldwide curiosity, George ensured the Maidstone group remained entrance and centre all through this historic journey.
Speaking about his time at the membership, George mentioned: “Football is about making reminiscences that may final eternally. Together via ardour, values and perception we created some magical moments that may join us for all times.
“My gratitude to our owners (Terry and Oliver), Director of Football (Bill Williams), the players and management team and all the staff at the football club and mostly to our wonderful supporters and wider community.”
Club co‑proprietor Oliver Ash mentioned: “I do know I communicate for everybody linked with the membership after I say we owe George an immense quantity of gratitude and respect for the arduous work he put in each as a participant and as our supervisor.
“Entrusting George with the manager’s role three years ago is certainly one of the best decisions we have made and, while I have many fond memories from his time in charge, like many Stones supporters I will never forget the emotion of the FA Cup win at Portman Road.”
Co‑proprietor Terry Casey added: “George has made an immense contribution to Maidstone United. As a participant, captain, mentor and supervisor, he introduced expertise, boundless vitality and a singular capability to inspire these round him.
“His successes on the pitch, both as a player and manager, are unquestionable but, for me, equally important are his successes off it. He has touched the lives of countless people during his time here and will be greatly missed by us all.”
Player, captain, coach, mentor and supervisor – George Elokobi will go away an indelible impression on Maidstone United, together with reminiscences that may final a lifetime.
Supporters can have the alternative to present their appreciation for George at this weekend’s residence match in opposition to Worthing. More particulars will probably be launched throughout the week.
