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Aaron Smith Returns as First Team Manager

Aaron Smith Returns as First Team Manager

Southampton Women's FC7 Jun - 14:02

Aaron Smith returns to the touchline with ambitions of leading Southampton Women's FC back towards the National League.

Southampton Women's FC are delighted to announce the appointment of Aaron Smith as First Team Manager ahead of the 2026/27 season.

A familiar and respected figure within the club, Aaron previously managed the Sirens between 2019 and 2023 before stepping into the role of Chairman in 2024. Having remained closely involved with the club's development, he now returns to the dugout as Southampton Women's FC look ahead to the new season.

The past two years have been a period of transition for the Sirens. Following relegation from the National League at the end of the 2024/25 campaign, the club responded positively under the leadership of Gav Calder, who guided the side to a respectable fifth-place finish last season and helped lay the foundations for future success.

The club would like to place on record its sincere thanks to Gav for his dedication, professionalism and commitment throughout his time as manager and wish him every success for the future.

Now, Aaron returns with a clear vision for the club's next chapter and the ambition of leading Southampton Women's FC back towards the National League.
Speaking on his return, Aaron said:

"This club means a great deal to me and I'm incredibly proud to be returning as First Team Manager. Having spent the last couple of years working behind the scenes, as Chairman, the truth is...I miss coaching. I miss the challenge of match days and the organisation around preparing the squad for each game and training session.

Gav and his staff did a fantastic job last season in stabilising the team and creating a platform to build from. We know there is still plenty of work ahead of us, but the ambition remains the same. We want to be competing at the top end of the table and ultimately give ourselves the best possible opportunity of returning to the National League, where I feel this club belongs.

We have already started to build the squad for next season and the coaching team are locked in and ready to go. I'd like to thank everyone connected with the club for their continued support, and I can't wait to get started. I look forward to seeing you at our upcoming games.”

Aaron's unique experience as both a former manager and chairman gives him a deep understanding of the club's values, ambitions and identity. As preparations begin for the 2026/27 campaign, his focus will be on building a competitive squad capable of challenging at the top of the division and taking the next step in the Sirens' journey.

Everyone at Southampton Women's FC would like to welcome Aaron back to the dugout and wish him every success in his new role.

Supporters can hear more from Aaron in an exclusive interview, coming soon to the club website.

With Aaron returning to First Team management, Vice Chairman, Rik Gonzalez, will assume the role of Chairman. The club will provide a further update on this transition in due course.

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