Ferrymead Bays is pleased to announce Alan Walker has re-signed as Mens First Team Head Coach for the 2026 season.

Alan has been with the club for 5 years and this will extend his stay to 6, making him the longest serving first team head coach in the clubs history.

Upon his re-appointment Alan had this to say

“I’m looking forward to the challenges of a new season at Ferrymead Bays, a proud and competitive Christchurch club.

It will be great to see Dan Clarkson back and welcome Brad Eiffe to the coaching team to tackle the Southern League in 2026.

We shall be looking to progress on last season by retaining our playing squad, welcoming back one or two and seeing our young Reserves players mature into a competitive Southern League players.

We are getting together each Tuesday at 6.30pm for a kickaround and the atmosphere and culture with the lads is great. We also hope to have some meaningful friendlies with a new pre-season tournament hosted on the hybrid turf at Ferrymead Park

Bring on the 2026 season!”

Alan will be joined on his coaching staff by returning Dan Clarkson and new appointment Brad Eiffe.

Upon joining the club, new arrival Brad had this to say

“I am really excited to join Ferrymead Bays this season as a player/coach. I’m hoping to bring my experience to the table and help develop the young and talented keepers we have in the senior squad. From what I’ve seen and heard, Evan and Toby have real potential, and I’m looking forward to working with them next season. I also feel that my experience means I’ll be ready to step in at any time if called upon throughout the season and support the squad in achieving our goals.

I’ve had some great years at Waimak since arriving back in New Zealand from Perth, Australia in 2017. I have nothing but fond memories on and off the pitch, and I’m grateful for all the players, coaches, and members there. However, I felt the time was right to move on, and after speaking with Alan, it was a no-brainer to come to Bays and work alongside him, Dan, Robbie, and this talented squad.

I can’t wait for the 2026 season to get started.”

Please join us in congratulating Alan and his team on their appointment and wishing them all the best for the 2026 season

Article added: Thursday 04 December 2025