Parkway Expands Role for Assistant Manager Peacock
CLUB NEWSPlymouth Parkway has significantly expanded the role of assistant manager Lee Peacock, appointing him to a new full-time position within the club. This strategic move signals Parkway’s commitment to developing its youth and disability programmes, as well as strengthening its ties with the local community.
Peacock, who already serves as assistant manager to first-team manager Chris McPhee (Macca), will now take on a broader remit. He will be responsible for overseeing the club’s disability and youth sections, in addition to his existing first-team coaching duties.
A key aspect of Peacock’s new role will involve the launch of a pioneering coaching course for disabled adults, set to begin in February. This initiative, developed in partnership with a specialist training provider, will offer participants the chance to earn a Level 2 football coaching qualification. This progressive programme underlines Parkway’s commitment to inclusivity and providing opportunities within the sport.
Beyond the disability programme, Peacock will head the development of Parkway’s youth setup. The club has expressed its ambition to instill a thriving youth academy, forging partnerships to expand the number of youth teams and, crucially, create a clear pathway for young talent to progress to the first team.
Peacock’s responsibilities extend further, encompassing the development of a unified club philosophy. Working closely with the board and first-team manager, he will help define and implement a clear set of values and playing identity that will be instilled across all levels of the club, from youth teams to the senior squad. He will also provide mentorship and support to Parkway’s coaching staff, ensuring consistent implementation of the club’s vision.
Peacock brings a wealth of experience to his expanded role. His previous positions include Head of Coaching at Swindon Town FC, where he oversaw more than 20 coaches, and various development roles at Eastleigh FC, including Professional Development Phase Lead Coach and Head of Youth and Development, managing programs from U8s to U21s.
“I am incredibly happy and excited to be given this fantastic opportunity at Parkway,” said Peacock. “My discussions with Mark Russell have outlined the club’s ambitious vision for its disability and youth programs, and its desire to become an even greater asset to the community. It’s a privilege to be entrusted with leading this project from the ground up.”
He continued, “This expanded role also allows me to provide more in-depth support to Macca and the first team. Being at the club full-time will enable me to contribute even more effectively on the pitch.”
Chairman Mark Russell expressed his delight at Peacock’s appointment. “Securing Lee in this full-time capacity is a major step forward for the club,” he stated. “It demonstrates our serious commitment to investing in our youth and disability sections, nurturing local talent, and establishing ourselves as a true community club.”
Russell added, “Lee’s experience and passion align perfectly with our ambitions. We are confident that he will make a significant impact on the club’s development in the coming years, and that Plymouth Parkway, can be at the forefront of creating opportunities for those who may not always have the opportunity to develop in football”
Peacock’s appointment marks a significant moment in Plymouth Parkway’s history. With a renewed focus on youth development, inclusivity, and community engagement, the club is laying the foundations for a brighter future.