Coach Gary pays tribute to his Distington heroes
Last updated 11:45, Friday, 18 April 2008
DIVISION One new boys Distington have finished their Cumberland campaign in mid-table, proving that promoted teams can prosper in the top-flight.
Head coach Gary Hewer, also the Workington Town No 2, said: “It’s been a very good experience for our lads. From winning Division Two and the Division Cup, it’s been a big step up, but the lads have transitioned really well.
“They have responded physically, in their skills and conditioning. They worked hard in the off-season to pick up their fitness levels.
“As a result of their Division One experience, they are all better players. We have used 28 players during the season, which shows you need a squad, and every one has played his part.
“We have competed in every single game. We do it tough as a village team, like Clifton and Lowca, as we haven’t the development systems in place, which means we must recruit at a senior level.
“We do struggle to attract players, so have to rely on doing a lot of work in our own community.
“The lads have a taste of it now, and hopefully it will inspire them to work even harder next season. It will be harder then because teams now know they can expect a tough game against us, so we have to raise the bar again.
“I’m absolutely delighted with the lads, the backroom staff and management committee behind the scenes.
“We have a community feel-good factor and get 200 or 300 watching wherever we play.”
Gary’s brother and fellow Distington coach Carl, an ex-Haven half-back, is to undergo a knee reconstruction over the summer. His playing efforts were hampered this year by his injury.
“Depending on the outcome of the operation, he could potentially play next season. With my duties at Workington Town, Carl has picked up the reins and the lads have responded to him,” Gary said.
“Fantastic raps go to him. He’s done a tremendous amount of work.”
Distington’s presentation night will be held on May 17.
Champion of Champions semi-final
Ellenborough v Queens (Leeds)
E Lamb & Son Amateur Cup semi-final
Cockermouth v Seaton
Division Two Top Four semi-final
Wigton v Lowca
Conference Division One
Bradford Dudley Hill v Wath Brow
Division Two
Egremont v Milford Marlins
