TWO MORE YEARS | Stu & Matt sign new deals

Wealdstone's management duo of Stuart Maynard and Matt Saunders have both signed new two-year deals with the club.

Maynard stepped into the hotseat in March 2021 following a two-year spell as Assistant Manager where the Stones won promotion from the National League South as champions.

He appointed Saunders into his old role of Assistant Manager when he began his managerial stint and the pair haven't looked back, guiding the Stones to three successive improved league positions and the club's highest league position in 36 years after their part-time Stones finished 13th in the National League last season.

Speaking on his new deal, Stones boss Maynard said, "We're both absolutely delighted especially after the season we've just had as a club. We said it was a long-term project when we started and we still both see it as that, we still want to keep progressing but this year will be tougher than ever.

"But we know we have a young, hungry squad who are dedicated and they put in the extra hours that are needed for success at this level. We're really excited and can't wait to get going for the new season.

"There's loads going on behind the scenes here that me and Matty are really excited about, we believe in what we do and we believe in what the club and the board are doing."

And his Assistant Saunders, who played under Maynard at his former club Hemel Hempstead Town and at the Stones echoed the gaffers sentiments.

"We've got a really good relationship with everybody at the football club, it's not just the football side where I think we've developed, we've learnt loads in our time here, personally the amount I've learnt in my three years here has been monumental and more than I've learnt in my entire football career.

"Everyone wants stability. When you're a player and you're signing and we're telling you a philosophy then players need to know that we're going to be here to fill out those promises."

And Stones Chairman Rory Fitzgerald was equally happy to have his management duo extend their stay at The Vale, "I'm delighted we can announce the new two-year contracts for Stuart and Matt. Our working relationship is exceptional, and together, we are driven by a shared vision of the team's success.

"Their dedication, passion and tactical acumen have been instrumental in propelling the team forward, and I have every confidence they will continue to lead us to greater heights.

"Despite strong interest from other clubs, they have chosen to commit once again to the Stones. I'm proud to have such outstanding individuals at the helm, and we eagerly anticipate the bright future that lies ahead for Wealdstone FC."