Following this evening's County Cup Final, Jacquie Agnew has announced that she will step down as manager of the Ladies squad the end of the season after seven years at the helm.

Her decision calls time on a hugely successful era and she leaves the club at its highest ever position in the football league.

Lewes were newly promoted to the London and South East Regional League when Agnew took over in 2002. Three seasons later they were narrowly beaten to the league title by Whitehawk but won it at a canter the next time round in 2006/07, also reaching the Sussex Challenge Cup final for the first time where they finished runners up to Brighton & Hove Albion.

Agnew led her side to a top half finish and a League Cup final appearance in their debut season in the South East Combination League, and went two better last season as they picked up both the League Cup and Sussex Challenge Cup for the first time, preventing Brighton from winning a tenth consecutive county title in the process. Coupled with a 4th place league finish and an appearance in the FA Cup 4th round, it’s going to be tough to top this season!

The Ladies squad setup at Lewes is the envy of many other women’s clubs and Agnew cites it as a major factor in their recent success. In particular, Director of Ladies Football Ron Moore has backed the club solidly, both financially and politically, since its early days.

He and Agnew share a mutual respect and similar values which have seen them combine as an effective team to raise standards of coaching, facilities and conduct, and ultimately push the club forward.

Agnew leaves the club in excellent shape. “I’ve had a fantastic run and have worked with some great coaches and players, as well as being part of a great club” she says.

“The backroom staff of coaches, assistant managers, physios and groundsman show great dedication and the club’s main sponsors, Groom Cars, takes much of the burden that would otherwise fall on players.”

“Collectively it makes Lewes a great club to play for and influx of talented players, often from higher leagues, over the last few seasons is testament to this.”

Agnew sees her departure as a chance for someone new to come in and make their mark, having seen the Rooks rise from an average regional to a solid Combination side.

“Whoever takes over will inherit a talented squad and it’ll be great to see how the club progresses.”

Plans are already in place regarding the Ladies squad management line up for next season and this will be announced shortly.