Outgoing Wakehurst boss Gregg proud of achievements

The local businessman stepped down as manager last week bringing an end to three stints in charge of the Ballymena club since first taking over in 2002.

In that time, Gregg was the figurehead in Wakehurst’s rise to joining the Irish League ranks and maintaining the club’s place in the third tier of football in this country.

“I will miss it deeply but there seemed to be an opportunity to pass on the mantle at this juncture - the time just seemed to be right,” Gregg, who has been succeeded by Paul Muir, told Times Sport.

“My decision had nothing to do with last season’s performances and results because seasons like that come and go.

“It has been a lot of fun and there has been advsersity as well but that in itself has provided some of the highlights in terms of the performances I got from the players at times of adversity, like last season.

“The morale and team spirit we fostered and the pride the boys took from playing for the club and representing the town was always a great source of pride for me.

“We didn’t have highs in terms of success or winning trophies but it was a big achievment for us to maintain our status at that level of football - especially given our relative lack of resources.

“We came from an Amateur League background to become an established, well-respected club at Championship level,” added Ian, who confirmed he will remain with Wakehurst in some capacity.