Harrogate Town boss Simon Weaver on taking home the pain - and having no time for nostalgia
NOT too far away from his 17th anniversary in charge at Harrogate Town, Simon Weaver's journey with the club - his club - has predominantly been in an upward direction.
It's brought promotions, feted moments at Wembley and a fair bit more besides.
For his part, Weaver remains very much focused on the here and now with the Sulphurites' league status in serious jeopardy, compounded by a dreadful weekend when his side lost and their third relegation rivals all won.
Given his long and deep-rooted association with the club and his family's involvement - his father Irving has been chairman for the bulk of his tenure - Weaver, 48, feels the pain acutely. Now is not the time for nostalgia.
He said: "We're all proud of the journey. (But) It's not the time now to reflect on all of that.
"It's on to the next game, trying to keep our pride intact by winning the next few games and staying up.
"I'm in a unique situation where we've got family within the club - and the name of the chairman managing a budget - and appeasing the fans behind me and trying to get players developed and survive at the same time, while balancing a tight budget.
"I'm not saying it's easy, but it comes with my territory. You don't want to go home with your parents, having lost the game, and yet managing the budget pretty well. It is a tough balance to achieve. But I've got used to it.
"It's been a long time since Bill Fotherby was chairman. We probably fell out more. But yes, it's a test.
"Ten years ago, if you'd said we'd be six years in the Football League, I probably wouldn't have believed you and I'd have bitten your hand off. But now, it doesn't make it any easier."