Cymru Premier striker lands Australian managerial job after South Melbourne’s shock departure
Jamie Reed has taken on a managerial job in Australia. (Pic by James Baylis/FAW)
Cymru Premier striker Jamie Reed has been appointed head coach of Australian side South Melbourne after the club began its search for a new manager following a dramatic change in the dugout.
Reed, who featured for Holywell Town in the Cymru Premier this season, takes charge of the Australian outfit after Sinisa Cohadzic stepped down just 48 hours after leading the club to a historic Australia Cup final victory over city rivals Melbourne Victory.
The former Wales-based forward had announced his retirement from playing earlier this year after helping Bangor City 1876 secure a treble-winning campaign, but returned to action with Holywell over the summer.
Jamie Reed takes charge of South Melbourne after dramatic managerial change
South Melbourne were left searching for a new head coach after Cohadzic departed shortly after the club’s memorable Australia Cup triumph.
The former manager stepped down following a 4-3 penalty shootout victory over Melbourne Victory in the final, before joining rival club Avondale FC.
Reed now takes on the challenge of building on that success, with South Melbourne preparing for a significant period in the club’s history.
Senior Football Director Peter Kokotis said the appointment reflected the club’s desire to build on the foundations already established.
“Jamie knows what it means to represent South Melbourne and the expectations that come with the role. His connection to the club, combined with his strong football background in the North West of the United Kingdom, makes him an excellent fit,” Kokotis said.
“We want to play attacking football that excites our supporters, while continuing to develop our younger players. Jamie shares that vision and we look forward to supporting him.”
Former Cymru Premier striker returned to playing before landing Australian job
Reed’s appointment comes after a busy period in his playing career, having initially announced his retirement earlier this year.
He played an important role in Bangor City 1876’s treble-winning campaign, helping the club lift both the Ardal North West title and the FAW Amateur Trophy.
The forward subsequently signed for Holywell Town over the summer and went on to make 10 appearances in the Cymru Premier.
Reed was not involved in Holywell’s Welsh Cup victory over Llay Welfare last Saturday, with his move into management now providing the next chapter in his football career.
The appointment also marks a return to South Melbourne for Reed, who previously played for the club in 2014. During that spell in Australia, he scored 12 goals in 25 appearances.
Jamie Reed begins second managerial spell after Airbus UK Broughton experience
The South Melbourne role will be Reed’s second managerial appointment after previously taking charge of Airbus UK Broughton.
He managed the Wingmakers for 21 matches, recording two victories, both of which came in the Welsh Cup.
Despite his relatively limited experience in management, Reed brings more than two decades of involvement in football, with a playing career that has taken him across different levels of the game.
Among his achievements are two appearances in winning sides at Wembley Stadium with York City, alongside his experience playing overseas in Australia.
South Melbourne General Manager Strati Xynas said the club believed Reed’s ambition and understanding of its culture would help move the team forward.
“Jamie is an ambitious young coach who is hungry to make his mark. He understands our culture and is committed to driving standards every day, from the training ground through to matchday,” Xynas said.
“We believe Jamie can challenge the players, bring fresh ideas and help take the team forward.”
South Melbourne prepare for AFC Champions League Two campaign
Reed’s appointment comes at an important time for South Melbourne, who have secured a place in the AFC Champions League Two following their Australia Cup success.
The continental competition represents another major opportunity for the club, adding an international dimension to the challenge facing the new head coach.
Reed will now look to bring his experience of British football and his previous connection with South Melbourne together as he begins his latest managerial role in Australia.
