Elliott Ward to take up coaching role at Colchester United

The 37-year-old joined the club on the 17th of February 2020 before making his debut on the same evening in a 3-1 win against Tonbridge Angels. Before the 2019/20 campaign was cut short, the central defender made five appearances for City.

In the summer of 2020, along with signing another year’s contract with the Clarets, Ward agreed to become Academy Assistant Manager.

During the Academy’s first year, under his and Mickey Spillane’s guidance, they enjoyed a solid season, reaching the second round of the FA Youth Cup.

Alongside his Academy coaching, Ward went on to finish his final playing season with 14 appearances, taking his total Claret outings to 19.

In July 2021, Elliott retired from his impressive career in football after playing in every professional league in England.

For the past year, Wardy has continued to be dedicated to the Club’s Academy team, helping lead them to a Champions of Champion victory after winning their National League U19 Alliance division.

The academy also saw another great run in the FA Youth Cup, where they made it to the second round proper.

With Academy players progressing to the first team, the reserves, and receiving offers from top universities nationally for departing second years, Elliott has helped change the lives of all the boys in the academy as he has helped them achieve their potential.

Chairman Steve Shore and Academy Manager Mickey Spillane have both expressed their gratitude to Elliott for all his work with the academy.

“The club is delighted that we have been part of Elliott’s journey into football coaching and management and wish him all the best in his new role at Colchester United. Elliott has been incredibly supportive of both me and the club during his time here for which I am very grateful” said Shore.

Spillane added: “Wardy has been here since the start of our journey at our Academy and has played a hugely significant part in where we are today, his knowledge of the game, enthusiasm, and desire to improve the players has been a huge asset to the club.

“He’s been a pleasure to work alongside and together we have shared a lot of success over the past two years with our Youth Cup runs, winning leagues, and players progressing into the 1st team, so naturally myself and the players are all going to miss him.

“He’s now earnt an exciting opportunity and goes with all of CCFC’s blessing and have no doubt within his coaching journey Wardy will continue to impress and we wish him all the best in his future”

All at Chelmsford City would like to congratulate Elliott on his exciting new role as under-18 manager at Colchester United and would like to thank him for everything he has done for the club.

The Club will be looking for a new Academy Assistant Manager over the coming weeks.