Morecambe Football Club has welcomed manager Ashvir Singh Johal into the record books as the club’s first Sikh manager. He makes history as the first Sikh to take up a frontline coaching position in the Sky Bet Championship. At only 30 years old, Johal will be stepping into a huge new role. This comes on the heels of the recent purchase of the club by the Punjab Warriors.
Johal will provide significant experience for Morecambe. He is indeed confirmed to hold a UEFA Pro Licence, football’s highest coaching qualification. His journey through the coaching ranks has been marked by a decade-long stint at Leicester City, where he worked closely with notable figures such as Kolo Toure under Brendan Rodgers. Johal was a former assistant coach to Cesc Fabregas at Como’s academy in Italy.
He takes over from Derek Adams, who had been in charge of the club before Johal’s hiring. While Johal has never played the game professionally, his wide-ranging coaching experiences have uniquely prepared him for the challenges he will face. He has a tall order in front of him. With only five players officially on the books, he has a lot of work to do.
“The immediate priority right now is going to be to identify the players that we need in this building to ensure Morecambe Football Club can perform well in the National League,” – Ashvir Singh Johal
After departing Notts County, where he served as the B Team head coach, Johal couldn’t be more excited. He was adamant that the mission was not just to ensure Morecambe survived in the National League, but flourished. He emphasizes an ambitious vision for the club’s future, aiming to energize and galvanize it over the next few years.
“OK, now it’s about building, and it’s about growing and making sure that in three, four, five years’ time, this is a completely energised and galvanised Morecambe Football Club that thrives in the EFL,” – Ashvir Singh Johal
Johal’s immediate agenda is an achievable one, of simply ensuring that Morecambe remain in the National League. He’ll do this by bringing a dynamic, fast-paced brand of basketball to the court. He’s convinced that grit and gumption will be essential to making this dream a reality.
“Make sure this year we don’t just survive in the National League, we thrive,” – Ashvir Singh Johal
His appointment has created a wave of enthusiasm across the football landscape. Soccer anti-discrimination organizations such as Kick It Out are rejoicing at the historic nature of his role.
“History made. Congratulations to Ashvir Singh Johal on becoming the first Sikh manager in professional football,” – Kick It Out
Johal enters a new chapter, having signed with Morecambe, but optimistic for a continued role as a changemaker. He is poised to leave his stamp on a league that is constantly changing and diversifying. His diverse background and dedication to creating a welcoming space can only serve him well in connecting with players and fans, respectively.
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