SHOLING have announced that legend Dave Diaper has retired from the club after 25 years bringing success to the side. 

Former manager Diaper has been operating as director of football since he appointed new boss Paul Doswell in October 2023. 

Diaper will now step away from the club to retire, it has been confirmed, with his son and daughter also departing. 

Marc - who has contributed 23 years as a player and assistant manager - and Claire, treasurer, will hand over their responsibilities.

CEO Paul Knott issued a lengthy statement: "After an incredible 25 years in the hot seat at Sholing Football Club, bringing sustained success, the legend Dave Diaper, has announced that he is retiring from the club.

Daily Echo: Sholing's success at Wembley.

"This statement came after the 10-year Vase anniversary match, which was held at The Imperial Homes Stadium on Friday, May 3.

"Two incredible achievements under Dave’s leadership were the fantastic day out at Wembley, resulting in Sholing lifting the FA Vase and taking the club into the Southern Premier League.

"Dave has continued until now, as director of football, but always intended to oversee the transition of the club as it entered a new era.  

"Staying in the Southern Premier League has always been the main objective for the club this season and having secured this, Dave now feels it is the right time to step away, to finally enjoy some downtime and spend some much promised time with his ‘very understanding and patient ’ wife, Helen.

"The club will forever be in Dave’s debt for the dedication and hard work he has stoically given to achieve some glorious years of football. The unbelievable stats showing the number of games played by some of the club's long-standing players is a real testament.

"Dave leaves with having created a real family atmosphere at Sholing FC. We will be forever grateful and all at Sholing FC wish him the happiest ‘football retirement’.

"Also, Dave’s son, Marc and daughter, Claire have decided to step down from their roles in the club. Marc has given 23 years as a player and assistant manager.  

"Marc now needs to concentrate more on his successful business which is demanding more of his time. This makes the huge time commitment needed for Sholing unsustainable.

"On a personal note, I will miss working with Marc. He is the reason I initially joined the club and I consider him a close friend.

Daily Echo:

"Claire has held the role of treasurer at Sholing FC and the parent company VT Sports. Claire also feels that now is the right time to step down and spend more time with her family.

"Claire has graciously offered to help support the club with any transitions moving forward. Claire has done an incredible job in every aspect of the finances of the club.

"She certainly deserves a well-earned rest from juggling the finances which takes up so much of her time. The Diaper family name is synonymous with Sholing Football Club and they will always be welcome at the ground.

"Everyone connected to the club is extremely grateful for everything they have given and achieved. In recognition of this Dave Diaper will become a life president of the club alongside Bill Boyle MBE and Trevor Lewis.

"Marc Diaper and Claire Paine will become life vice presidents. Moving forward, we hope to do them proud, as they are a hard act to follow.

"I’m sure you will want to join me in personally thanking them for their sheer hard work, support and the time they have given to this wonderful football club."