Rothes Football Club appoint ex-Nairn County boss Ronnie Sharp as new manager at MacKessack Park club
Former Nairn County boss Ronnie Sharp has been appointed as new manager at Rothes.
The 58-year-old steps into the MacKessack Park hotseat as successor to ex-Caley Thistle defender Richard Hastings, who parted company with the Moray club last month.
The Speysiders have endured a poor Highland League season, dropping to bottom spot after a 6-0 home loss to Strathspey Thistle which signalled the end for Hastings.
But a 3-2 success at home to Turriff United on Saturday, with club director Derek Thomson taking the team, lifted Rothes back off the foot of the table.
Sharp has had two spells in charge at Nairn and this season had a brief spell as assistant manager at Strathspey until manager Bobby Beckwith was dismissed.
The new boss will work with his former assistant at Nairn County, Mike Rae as his number two.
A Rothes statement said the club was delighted with their appointment.
“Ronnie needs little introduction to anyone connected with the Highland League, having now served for over 40 years as a player and manager,” said a spokesperson.
“His enthusiasm, passion and commitment to football remains obvious to anyone who talks to him.
“We believe his Highland League experience will prove invaluable to ensure our progress from our lowly league position and have no doubt that he will bring out the best in our talented young squad whilst also attracting experienced and quality players to Rothes.
“He has a proven track record established during his times at Nairn County, where he worked closely with Mike Rae as his assistant. We are excited to confirm that they will now be reunited for their next challenge at Rothes.
“Mike brings a great depth of experience to our club having spent his development years at Rangers and many years of experience in the Highland League.
“We look forward to working with both to improve and strengthen our team, improve outcomes and start climbing the league again.”
Sharp and Rae take charge for the first time on Saturday when Rothes play host to Formartine United in the first round of the Highland League Cup.
