Aberdeen FC Ladies Manager Allan Smith gave an early indication of his intention to further his team’s achievements in the coming season, with the appointment of former Forfar Farmington manager Mark Nisbet as the Dons new Head Coach.
Having departed the Women’s game following his resignation from the Forfar post at the end of season 2013, Mark’s appointment with Aberdeen will be key in assisting the Reds to further their potential in the SWPL, says manager Smith.
“We have to be happy with what we achieved last season, but in looking back there were still areas where we had massive opportunities to improve” explains Smith. “After analysing the season as a whole, it was clear that we required additional coaching staff to not only spread the load a little, but also give us the resource required to really focus on the individual development of our players. I will continue my position as Manager, with Mark working alongside me heading up the Coaching staff.”
“I’ve known Mark for a number of years now, and when it became clear that he had an interest in joining us, I moved quickly to set up a meeting to secure his services. ”
Mark started his playing career on the books of Forfar Athletic as youth player, and also saw subsequent service with Forfar West End, Forfar Albion and Kirrie Thistle. In the summer of 2005, he was approached to assist with coaching Forfar Farmington’s 1st team who had then just been promoted to the Scottish Women’s Premier League for the first time. Working alongside the then 1st team manager, he assisted in ensuring the sides continued SWPL survival. Hanging up his own playing boots two years later at the age of 25 to fully commit to coaching, the now Head Coach set a target of improving his sides final league position and / or points total year after year – An aim was achieved for six consecutive seasons.
Departing Forfar at the end of season 2013, Mark continued his coaching activities by taking up post with Forfar Athletic within the SPFL club’s youth system.
Mark also continues to carry the role of Head Coach for the Scottish FA East U-16 Performance Squad programme.
Speaking on his move to Aberdeen, Mark commented “I’m really delighted to be able to take up the post of Head Coach with Aberdeen FC Ladies. Last season I was able to see that Allan and his staff were starting to make a real difference to the team and their results were testament to this.”
“I know a number of the playing staff well already, and I’m looking forward to having the opportunity not only to work with them again, but also the other players who all make up what I believe is a very talented squad.”
“Allan’s and my own footballing philosophies are not too dissimilar so I’m very confident that I can make a positive contribution to Aberdeen and help the players reach the goals that not only we set, but also the ones they set themselves.”
