Bell and Proctor

Representative Changes

Changes ahead for The Army FA Mens Team

WO1 Simon “Dinger” Bell

After a successful three year period leading the Army Men Representative team WO1 Simon “Dinger” Bell has confirmed that he is to step down as Head Coach. Appointed in the summer of 2015 “Dinger” previously coached the Royal Engineers steering them to win the Woolwich Cup three times. He had been previously involved at Army representative level as Assistant Coach between 2010 and 2012 and won the Inter Services and South West Counties Cup as a player between 1996 and 2002.

Upon arrival as Head Coach “Dinger” led the Army to the Inter Services for three consecutive seasons. Previously they had not won the competition since 2007. Indeed the most recent competition in March saw the highest scoring since 1927 whilst the 7-3 win versus Royal Navy, the highest aggregate score for an Inter Services fixture in 59 years. In addition success was also achieved winning the Southern Counties Cup twice.

Upon announcing his departure WO1 Bell said, “I would like to thank all the staff and players who I have worked with over my three seasons as Army Head Coach. Every single one of you, whether you have been in for three days or three years has contributed to the success of the team over this period. I wish you all great success in the future and know you will give my successor the same support you gave me!

“The staff at the Army FA have been first class and have supported my vision throughout and without this I would have struggled, thank you!

“I would also like to thank the Royal Navy and RAF Senior Men’s football teams for their kind words over the years and ensuring that the standards of Services football are always maintained.

“I am now going to dedicate my time to my own personal and professional development in the crazy world of football. To quote Joe Namath “If you aren’t going all the way, why go at all?”

“It has been the absolute highlight of my career in the Army and a journey I will never forget. Thank you”. 

The Army FA extends its warm appreciation and places on record its recognition to the superb contribution WO1 Bell has made during his tenure as Head Coach. We wish you well “Dinger” in the future.

 

Major Danny Proctor

Major Danny Proctor has also announced that he is to retire as Army Mens Team Secretary at the end of the season. Progressing from the Army Youth team Danny made 57 appearances for the Army captaining the side in 1997/98 and has won the South West Counties Cup and Inter Services as a player.

The REME man also won the Massey Trophy and Quadrangular tournament as a player and manager,18 years apart! Danny has been an integral part of the representative structure over recent years serving the Under 23s (for whom he also managed) and Mens squads. The Army FA extends its sincere appreciation and recognition to Danny for his excellent contribution to Army football over many years.

Advertisements for the vacant post of Army Mens Head Coach and Team Secretary will be published shortly and be available on the Army FA website- www.armyfa.com