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AFC Totton Wayne became the club’s biggest and most important signing when he took on the role of General Manager. “AFC Totton is not so much as a sleeping giant, but a very special and unique community. It is something that has some amazing potential and the opportunity came at the right time to get back into football in a way which I felt not only comfortable with, but excited about.” Despite having to take time away from the role a couple of months later when the Football Association inquiry hit Wayne with a two month ban from the game (including all elements of work on and around the premises), Wayne came back stronger and with a vision to take AFC Totton onwards and upwards to a level which would begin to realise the potential that the facilities of the club deserved. Some fifteen months on from the period, the club is flourishing, becoming a central part of the whole community. Wayne’s personality, experience, commitment and above all absolute determination and hard work has taken the club to new levels previously unseen and to the heart of the local community in a way rarely achieved at this level of the football pyramid. From the daily breakfast to wakes, receptions, parties and conferences; Wayne has transformed the club to a seven day a week, 18 hour a day operation and community programmes running every single day from Walking Football to Soccer Tots. With an official partnership with Southampton FC, which has seen their recently established Ladies Team under the stewardship of Marieanne Spacey- Cale MBE, growing week by week, the vision for AFC Totton to now begin their growth and development on the pitch and achieve Southern League Premier and even National League South status is very much on. As for Wayne? The man with a big heart remains in the heart of so many. The number of times during the week he is busy in the kitchen preparing another buffet that he will be asked to come out for a selfie with those using the club facilities never seems to decrease, in fact quite the opposite, and with his own exclusive range of Roly Poly Goalie Pies being an attraction for both existing, new and visiting supporters to AFC Totton (and a number of other football clubs in the area) on a matchday, the future is looking good for one of the games heroes and personalities. ANDI IRE - H H PRICES THAT ARE HARD TO BEAT!!! “I used to watch Totton play in the late 60’s when my uncle and cousin were involved with the club. I still get down to watch the games and try to get to as many away games as possible. Handi Hire has sponsored the club the past seven years. Keep enjoying your football and good luck in the new season.” TOOLS FOR DIY & PROFESSIONAL From floor sanders & disc cutters to carpet clearners & wallpaper strippers we stock the lot! Extensive Range of Tools For Hire Established 21 years - Open Mon to Sat All major Credit Cards Accepted Delivery Service Available SERVING THE NEW FOREST & SOUTHAMPTON AREAS Steve Shepherd, Handi Hire 023 8086 3275 | www.handihire.co.uk 1 Hymans Way, Water Lane, Totton, Southampton Gas www.footballfocusmag.com 13