Gary Bennett joins Hebburn Town Women coaching team | OneFootball

Gary Bennett has taken up a coaching role with Hebburn Town Women.

According to Sunderland Echo, he will work alongside Mark Elliott and Alex Ross as the team prepares for the new Durham FA Womens Premier League season.

The former Sunderland defender moved to Wearside in 1984 and spent the next 11 years in red and white, making over 360 appearances and winning the old Division Three title, while reaching the Milk Cup and FA Cup finals. He left in 1995, then played for Carlisle United, Scarborough, Darlington and Hebburn before retiring.

After hanging up his boots he managed Darlington, and is now widely known for his work with Show Racism the Red Card and as a co-commentator and pundit on BBC Newcastle’s Sunderland coverage. He received an MBE in 2022 for services to anti-racism in football and society.

Bennett said the role is a great chance to be involved with a club progressing on and off the pitch, adding that strong foundations give players the platform to perform. He is looking forward to helping Hebburn Town push to the next level.

Head of women’s football Steve Moore said bringing Bennett back to coach alongside Elliott and Ross is a fantastic outcome, and that his stature and influence fit the club’s ambitions. He welcomed the former Hornets player back to the club.

Source: Sunderland Echo