Charlton Athletic is thrilled to announce the homecoming of Josh Oatham as the new assistant coach of the women's team.
In his first interview since returning to the club Oatham expressed his enthusiasm about re-joining Charlton and being part of an exciting project.
“It’s good to be back, a lot has changed for the better. It’s a really professional environment. The last time I was here, it was a successful period so to be offered the chance to come back and work with the talented players and the staff we’ve got here was great. I’ve been really impressed with the professionalism first and foremost but also the quality.”
After a short break from the game following his time at Gillingham Women, Oatham was eager to get back into the game. He noted that a call from Karen, whom he deeply respects for her achievements in the game, played a crucial role in his decision.
Oatham sees this as the perfect platform to continue his coaching journey and achieve great things with a talented group of players who are hungry for success.
Reflecting on his time at Gillingham, Oatham described it as a transformative experience that provided him with a wide array of insights.
Initially joining as an assistant manager, he quickly found himself elevated to the role of manager due to unforeseen circumstances. Oatham then took on the unique challenge of being chairman and owner of the football club when financial constraints hit the women's section during the pandemic. This varied experience gave him a profound understanding of the intricate workings of a football club, both on and off the pitch.
One of Oatham proudest achievements during his tenure at Gillingham was leading the team to face giants like Arsenal in the FA Cup, where they embraced their underdog status and exceeded expectations. The team's success served as a catalyst for achieving a record point total in the following season, setting new standards of excellence.
Now, back at Charlton, Oatham is eager to embark on the upcoming campaign. His primary focus is on developing a highly competitive team whilst aiming to bring out the best in each player, honing their skills and fostering a winning mentality. The excitement is evident as the women's team prepares for the challenges ahead.
The women's team will kick off their campaign in style, playing against Sheffield United at home on 27th August. Click here to secure your tickets
