Soccer: MacGowan returns to help rebuild Waitakere

Eighteen months after resigning as New Zealand Soccer chief executive, Bill MacGowan has accepted a similar (part-time) role with New Zealand Football Championship franchise Waitakere United.

"The board decided to appoint a chief executive to take control of the commercial/business side of the club," said Waitakere chairman Rex Dawkins. "He will also have the hands-on role in all footballing matters."

Dawkins said he accepted responsibility for much of what led to last season's fall from grace as the club tumbled from first-season grand finalists to being among the cellar-dwellers.

"We were a dismal failure to the franchise as a whole, including our commercial partners," said Dawkins.

This appointment was the first step in turning things around.

"Losing Keryn Jordan at the 11th hour was a major setback but that alone was not the reason for what was a terrible season."

One of the first issues MacGowan must address is the ill-discipline which cost United players to suspension at crucial times.

Asked why he has returned to the game and in particular United, MacGowan said he believed in the New Zealand Football Championship and its objectives.

"I have had 18 months away from a sport which I have had a long involvement in as a player, coach and administrator," said MacGowan, who has already taken up his part-time role.

"I haven't commented on any issues, haven't watched any games."

As Keith Pritchett's assistant, MacGowan helped coach Waitakere City to National League glory.

MacGowan is expected to confirm [subject to revised conditions] Steve Cain's reappointment as head coach in the next few days at the same time as announcing other roles at the club.
He will also have a big say in the recruitment of players.

"We will maximise the opportunities in being able to sign three imports and a marquee player," said MacGowan.