PLYMSTOCK’S outgoing skipper James Nicholls believes the club is in a far better place now than it was when he took charge six seasons ago.

Tom Mitch will take charge of Plymstock’s first team when the Tolchards DCL season gets under way on the first Saturday in May.

Although Plymstock were relegated from the A Division at the end of last season, Nicholls can point to progress in all areas.

Home-grown players have come through the ranks, facilities at Dean Cross have been improved and the club has moved a little way up the league ladder.

Relegation last season was a ‘low point’, but Nicholls insists the direction of travel is the right one.

“My highs are seeing where we have come from since being relegated to the C West,” said Nicholls, who skippered Plymstock to back-to-back promotions. 

“Plymstock is built on our youth set-up – and many times I have been the only player not to have come through the ranks. 

“It's been great to see the young lads grow: Matty Whalley in the Somerset set up and Robbie Cunningham and Tom Mitch being selected for the Devon Lions. The club is being run financially well and has fantastic volunteers.

“And having proper covers, a re-laid square and an overseas professional are all things I never thought I would see.

“Maybe, one low point was how we finished last season and ended-up back in the B Division. But, if I am honest, I think this is the right starting point for Tom to take it on.”

The first thing Mitch did after his election as skipper was to pay tribute to his predecessor.

“Jimmy deserves huge thanks for the great job he has done as skipper, putting the club in the good place it is in now,” said Mitch.

Task number two for Mitch is to squad strengthen to compensate for losing Matt Whalley and Hal Kerton to Plymouth – and find an overseas player to replace Zimbabwean Prince Masvaure

“Losing two players who have contributed so much to the recent success of the club isn’t ideal, but we wish Hal all the best for the future and Matty as well,” said Mitch. “As a club we all hope Matty kicks on and goes as far as he wants to in the game.
“Moving forward, the team we have will still be more than competitive – and I am excited for the challenge of continuing the good momentum we have as a club.”