The Dolan Effect: A Thank You Following Terry Dolan’s Departure

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Following the conclusion of a memorable 2017/18 campaign, Director of Football Terry Dolan left the club.

An extremely well-respected and successful footballing figure, Terry returned the club he represented as a player as a director in 2015 before being appointed as Director of Football in 2016.

He took on the role in order to help rebuild the pyramid within the club, as well as developing a community-led academy. During his time at the club, he also worked closely with first-team managers to produce teams that Bradford (Park Avenue) could be proud of, and that would attract supporters.

The move to bring Terry back to the club was a logical one; it was made out of common sense. He brought a wealth of experience of football to the Horsfall, following a distinguished career of playing and managing at a high level. His professional playing career began with Bradford (Park Avenue), who he represented until Huddersfield Town swooped in 1970. Terry played in all four divisions for the Terriers before going on to enjoy a successful five-year spell with Bradford City. He also represented Rochdale and Brackley Town as a player and spent time with Harrogate Town and Thackley as a player-coach before eventually stepping into senior management. As a manager, he took the reigns at Bradford City, Rochdale, Hull City, York City and Guiseley before working with the St Vincent and Grenadines national team as a consultant and with Notts County as Head of Recruitment.

One of Terry’s most challenging tasks when appointed was establishing an academy that would serve both the club and the local community. Perhaps unsurprisingly considering his credentials and experience, he was pivotal in ensuring that the academy was successfully set-up. Now known as the Horsfall College of Sport, it provides opportunities in football for young people in Bradford as well as helping them develop academically. Recently, young midfielder Matthew Rowntree became the first scholar to score for the first-team and the College’s success will always serve as a reminder of Terry’s contribution to the club.

Everyone associated with Bradford (Park Avenue) wishes Terry all the best and he is always welcome at the Horsfall Stadium.

Thank you, Terry!

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