This Is Guernsey

By Aaron Scoones

COLIN FALLAIZE has been named as Tony Vance’s assistant.

Vance was appointed the new Guernsey senior coach following Steve Ogier’s acrimonious resignation to be involved with ‘Guernsey United’.

St Martin’s boss Fallaize (pictured) had been linked to the top job, but yesterday the Guernsey Football Association announced that he will work with Vance.

He was in charge when Guernsey won the NatWest Island Games on home soil in 2003 and was also involved in the successful 2001 campaign.

‘Big Fal’ explained why he had taken on the role, with next summer’s Island Games in Aland looming large on the horizon.  ‘It’s a good time to get involved with Guernsey football again with the Island Games coming up,’ he said.

‘I like that scenario and a lot of people who I worked with at an island level have moved on. There’s a new board, but the thing is that he [Vance] asked me and I’m pleased to help him as he has a lot to offer.’

Vance said there was only one man he wanted alongside him.

‘I’ve had experience working with Colin in the island set-up both as a player and as part of the coaching team,’ he said.

‘When I knew I was interested in the Guernsey job, I knew he was the man I wanted alongside me. He’s an inspirational character and his qualities are second to none.

‘It’s no surprise that he was involved in both our Island Games gold medal campaigns in 2001 and 2003.’

GFA chairman Mark Le Tissier said that he had discussed the appointment with senior figures of the member clubs, who were supportive.

He particularly thanked St Martin’s president Henry Davey for allowing Fallaize to take on the new role in addition to his responsibilities at Blanche Pierre Lane.

‘I am delighted Big Fal has agreed to assist Tony,’ said Le Tissier. ‘Colin will be a very popular choice and I am confident they will be very successful in their quest for success in the Cimandis Muratti and NatWest Island Games in 2009.

‘I very much look forward to working with Tony and Colin and wish them well and I am sure they will get the support and commitment they deserve from the players they select.’

Article posted on 29th November, 2008 - 9.30am