Whitby Town has confirmed the departures of joint-manager Jason Kennedy and sports therapist Ben Slater, as Lee Bullock promises a major club restructure ahead of the new campaign.
Whitby Town Football Club is undergoing significant personnel changes as they prepare for the upcoming campaign, following a difficult season that culminated in a tense battle against relegation.
The Seasiders have confirmed that Jason Kennedy has stepped down from his role as joint-manager on his own terms, following the conclusion of the 2025/26 season.
Kennedy originally arrived at the Towbar Express Stadium in October 2024, initially serving as an assistant manager. He brought a wealth of non-league and English Football League experience to the Yorkshire Coast, assisting then-manager Gary Liddle. When Liddle departed for Hartlepool United in early 2026, Kennedy was promoted to work alongside Lee Bullock. Together, the pair steered the club to safety during a turbulent and challenging period, ensuring much-needed stability.
The club expressed their gratitude for Kennedy's leadership and vast experience, noting the positive influence his professionalism had on both the dressing room and the wider club environment as he transitioned from a playing career to the dugout.
In addition to the managerial change, the club has also announced that sports therapist Ben Slater has left his position for personal reasons. Slater was heavily praised by officials for his dedication to player welfare, playing a crucial role in the squad's care, recovery, and overall performance.
Meanwhile, Lee Bullock has issued a candid message to supporters, reflecting on a campaign that he admits fell drastically short of expectations, despite the team achieving their primary goal of avoiding the drop.
Lee Bullock said:
"When I returned, the objective was clear: to retain our place in the division. While we achieved that goal, it proved far more challenging than we had anticipated. Looking back, the season fell well below the standards expected, both on and off the pitch. It should serve as a significant wake-up call for everyone involved with the club."
He confirmed that an off-field restructure is already in motion, which will allow fans to have a much more active voice in the football club's future direction.
On the playing side, Bullock warned that there will be a busy summer ahead, with numerous departures and fresh signings expected as management attempts to assemble a squad worthy of the town's backing. He noted that honest conversations are already taking place with current squad members, while potential new recruits are being identified.
Lee Bullock said:
"All we ask, as a management team, is for your patience. No one wants a repeat of the past season, and we are determined to avoid another relegation battle. Our supporters deserve better, and we fully recognise that."
Despite the struggles on the pitch, Bullock highlighted the exceptional dedication of the fanbase. He noted that home attendances at the Towbar Express Stadium were higher than the 2024/25 figures, and he praised the immense commitment of those who travelled independently or on official transport to follow the team across the country.
He added that it is now the responsibility of the players to match the passion shown by the Whitby Town faithful. Updates regarding a new management structure and the appointment of a replacement sports therapist are expected to be communicated to supporters in due course.
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