Soccer: Cox takes Kingz crown

By TERRY MADDAFORD

Peter Cox will turn up for his first day of work as the Football Kingz new general manager today unconcerned at what has gone on before - on and off the field.

The 40-year-old South African-born Cox brings a background in professional sport to his new job and he is determined to make the most of what he describes as "an incredibly valuable asset."

Cox, who played professional volleyball in Europe, moved to New Zealand 10 years ago to set up Sports Management Consultants.

He will remain a director at SMC, but will throw his fulltime energies into the Kingz.

"We have cut our teeth in this industry for the past 10 years. It is a tough environment, but I have thrived on accepting and meeting challenges.

"It was this change of direction which attracted me," said Cox whose company were part-owners of the Auckland basketball team for three years.

He has also done sponsorship work for the Auckland War Memorial Museum and the Manukau City Council.

Cox has worked at Unitec - which is also the Kingz base - in helping develop their facilities and programmes.

He is aware of the problems which have beset the Kingz, but feels he is well-equipped to right the sometimes-rocking boat. "That is part of the appeal. I feel I have the experience to offer something."

Chris Turner, who has acted as chief executive, will revert to chairman of the Kingz board.

"We are pleased to have Peter take this role," Turner said. "His expertise in sponsorship and marketing will be a great asset.

"We took our time in making this appointment because we were determined to find the person we felt would bring the necessary skills to the club."