MALVERN Town have confirmed Lewis Platt has stepped down as club captain with Joe Tumelty to take on the role next season.
Former skipper Platt is also considering whether or not he can commit to the club for the 2025/26 campaign.
Platt cited family and other commitments as to the reason behind his decision to step down as captain.
Tumelty will take over the captain’s armband with Charlie Johnson appointed the club’s new vice-captain.
Platt said: “After being with Malvern Town for 10 out of the last 12 seasons, and the last three incredible seasons wearing the armband, I’ve made the difficult decision to step down as captain.
“The increasing demands of life in the Southern League – particularly the travelling – have made it harder to strike the right balance between football, work and family life.
“It’s been a real honour to be captain of this brilliant club in what has been a period of amazing progress both on and off the pitch.
“From finishing second in Step Five and winning the play-offs to taking the club back to Step Four for only the second time in its history, to securing a mid-table finish in our first season back, and then going 19 games unbeaten which took us to the play-off final in front of 3,000 fans, we came up just short but what a journey it was.
“I’ve made some unbelievable memories, genuine friends for life and I hope I’ve helped move the club forward in some way, both on and off the pitch.
“Massive thanks to Hoops for trusting me with the armband initially and to Sooty, Bev and the rest of the backroom staff for their support, and of course to all the lads who’ve been in the trenches with me week in, week out.
“Finally, to the Malvern faithful – thank you for always standing by us, in the tough times but also enjoying the highs with us.
“Moving forward, I am handing the armband to Tums [Joe Tumelty].
“Although he’s only been with us for one season, his impact has felt far greater. His leadership, work ethic, and commitment to the team have been exceptional from day one.
“We know the squad is in great hands with him leading the way and with support from our new vice-captain Charlie Johnson who, similarly to Tums, is a real asset to the club, I have no doubt the progress will continue.
“I’m not sure exactly what the future holds for me, but I hope to remain part of this fantastic club in some capacity.
“For now, though, it’s time to take a little break and spend some much-needed time with my family.”
Tumelty added: “I’m incredibly proud and honoured to have been named club captain of Malvern Town.
“When Hoops asked me, it was a moment of real pride – this club means a lot to me despite only joining last summer, and to be given this responsibility is something I don’t take lightly.
“I want to give a massive shoutout to Platty, who has been a fantastic captain.
“He’s led by example, and it’s been a privilege to play under him. He’s set the standard, and I hope to carry that forward with the same passion and commitment.
“I’m also buzzing to have Charlie as vice-captain with me, someone I am very close with. We’ve got a great group here, and I’m really excited about what’s to come.”
