BUCKLAND Athletic announced on their social media pages on Monday, May 12 that, “Following a recent meeting, First Team Head Coach, Dan Hart has left the Club”, alongside assistant manager Todd Hanrahan.

The club statement read: “Arriving as a young, aspiring and passionate manager in May 2022, Hart has embedded himself deep into all aspects of the club and displayed many qualities that the Board, Committee and wider club support have been extremely complimentary of during his tenure.

“However, despite commendably leading the side to a play-off semi-final position this season, on the field results have fallen short of ambitions, and so the decision for a change in direction has been concluded.”

A 1-1 home draw with Nailsea & Tickenham secured a playoff spot for Buckland but they fell at the hands of Clevedon Town in the semi-final. Clevedon were beaten by Brixham AFC in the final with the Fishermen joining champions Portishead Town in the Southern League for next season.

They went on to place on record their thanks for the work of Dan and Todd in their respective roles.

This announcement was followed, two days later, with the arrival of new manager Matt Cusack.

Prior to taking over at Homers Heath, Cusack was in charge of Helston Athletic for three years, leading the Cornish club to a first-ever Western League title win in 2023/24. Before then, he was involved with Plymouth Parkway.

Speaking to the club’s media team, Cusack commented, “The ambition is to get to the Southern League. It’s now my job, with my team around me, to do everything we can to make that happen.”