CHORLEY FC are thrilled to welcome and officially announce Craig Dootson as our new Chief Operating Officer.
Craig will oversee the day-to-day operations of Chorley FC, working closely with our investors, chairman and our Chief Executive Officer, Terry Robinson.
Many will recognise Craig Dootson as a renowned and successful goalkeeper, having played for teams such as Fleetwood, Hyde, and Bury.
His extensive experience extends into coaching, where he made significant contributions with the Liverpool FC Women’s team, Leeds United, Tranmere Rovers, Salford City and, of course Chorley FC.
After ‘hanging up his gloves’ Craig transitioned into adult education and training, before taking the role of Chief Operating Officer at AFC Fylde where he had a successful two seasons.
Craig will be transferring all of his skills and experiences into our exciting project at Chorley FC. In just over a month, Craig has already introduced positive changes and enhanced protocols at the football club during this exciting time of growth.
Craig had the the following to say regarding the move,
"To say I am excited about this project and role is an understatement.
I was born in Adlington, and have never lived more than ten miles from the club.
So, I think you could say I’m a local boy (or a grey older man).
I know a got a little bit of a ribbing when I took the role at AFC Fylde, but despite what many think, the role was great for my development. I learnt a lot from my time there, and the Chairman certainly toughened me up and opened my eyes to the world of business.
However, to work for your home town club is fantastic and the investors have placed a lot of trust and faith into bringing me in.
They have a very clear focus on what they want and they also understand that some things will take time but the club is on an upward trajectory.
In the last couple of weeks, the ground has undergone more work than I have ever seen at VP. The supporters and the club are extremely lucky to have such a dedicated group of people wanting to take the club forward.
Since arriving at the club, its clear that we have a fantastic group of people involved on a day-to-day basis, Jeff (Commercial), Sue (Bar), Pete (Media), Julian (The Trust) and Darren (Community Foundation) are a pleasure to work with and we all have one common goal – to take the club forward and make VP an exciting place to be.
One other thing I can say about Chorley FC – we have an amazing group of volunteers. Craig Rivers, John Moore, and Big Gaz are just a few of those that we can’t be without. And this is highlighted even more with the numbers interested in attending our volunteer weekend at the end of the month (22nd – 23rd).
Over the next few weeks, we are going to be out and about increasing our coverage in the local area, whilst also enhancing our current relationships.
The club is nothing without the support of the local area and local businesses. There are a couple of new sponsors on board, and I’m hoping they are just the start of things to come.
One final thing, my door is always open to ideas, opportunities and questions. I would encourage supporters to come in and see me or drop me an email (craig.dootson@chorleyfc.com).
There is never a bad idea, and with the current owners mindset, let’s give things a go. I’m looking forward to seeing you all soon, and lets get VP rocking and support Preecey and the boys."
Doots
