As the new season approaches, we caught up with Gareth Williams. Gareth is part of our first team coaching set-up and recently completed his UEFA B Licence.

Could you tell us about your coaching role and what you enjoy most about it?
I have been involved with football coaching for 12 years but always junior football: grassroots, academies and county teams. This opportunity to now work with an adult team gives me a new challenge and another opportunity to develop myself. Moving into adult football coaching is different but I couldn't resist the opportunity when Dylan asked me to help with the coaching at 1876. The buzz is always the same - it's about making a difference to the players individually in terms of their tactical or technical application which then helps to improve the team effort.

You recently completed your UEFA B Licence. What was that experience like?
I was accepted onto the B Licence before Covid. Unfortunately the pandemic meant that the modules were delivered remotely rather than with the group on the pitch. Credit though to the FAW tutors for adapting to the circumstances and ensuring we continued with the programme. It was great to be able to be back out on the pitch and deliver for my final assessment last month and I was delighted to hear that I had passed. The programme is a big commitment but I would absolutely recommend it.

What have you enjoyed most about pre-season so far?
I think the first thing to say is that being back on the pitch has been a massive positive boost psychologically for players and coaches. It's nice to get back to doing what we all enjoy and had taken for granted pre-Covid. You can't underestimate the positive impact from the team banter. The coaching team have worked hard to deliver sessions and work within the return to football protocols. The announcement of the season start date was a big plus for us all and another step towards getting back to normal….and some quality pre-season friendlies have really given us a taste of what is to come.

What are you most looking forward to about the new season?
I can't wait for the match day feeling. I have watched 1876 as a supporter and am now looking forward to being involved on the touchline and sharing that experience with the fans. It's time for this club to take the next step on its exciting journey and if its a privilege to be a part of the team.