by Ian Fitzell & Julie Kissick
LONGEVITY in football management is rare – unless a seemingly unbreakable bond unites a club and its gaffer.
Barry Town United and boss Gavin Chesterfield have such a connection.
Chesterfield reaches an historic milestone today as he oversees his 400th game in charge of the south Wales side.
He took up his role at Barry in 2007 and guided the club into the top-flight for the 2017/18 season.
He is a UEFA A Licensed coach and former professional football player with Exeter City and Merthyr Tydfil. He is also a highly-regarded academic at University of South Wales.
Fans of Barry Town United and some of Chesterfield’s USW colleagues paid tribute to him on his 400th game in charge.
Produced by Ian Fitzell, assisted at Barry Town United by Joe Mansfield
One of the former captains who served under Chesterfield at Barry, James Saddler, told Y Clwb Pel Droed how significant he was to the club and its players.
“Gav continually goes above and beyond the normal remit of a football manager and for this reason, the bond between Gav and Barry Town United Football Club is stronger than most: Gavin is Barry Town United.
“I know Gav doesn’t like to take credit for the team’s success but it’s clear that he’s a major factor and a driving force behind what the club is doing, on and off the pitch, both now and in recent years.”
“From the first time I spoke to Gav, his plans to take Barry Town back to the WPL were clear. He always had that ambition and could see the potential in the club.”
Jenner Park plays host to the JD Welsh Premier League clash between Barry Town United and champions The New Saints. Kick-off 2.30.
