After a long playing career packed with passion, tackles, and leadership, Tyrone Sterling is back at Hartsdown Park—only this time, he’s traded his boots for a whistle.
The former Margate defender, who officially hung up his boots in April, has returned to the club not to sit in the stands and reminisce, but to roll up his sleeves and get stuck into a new challenge as part of the coaching staff.
“It felt a bit weird at first,” Tyrone admits. “Being at training and not lacing up the boots—it made me want to jump in with the lads! But I’m genuinely excited to be back in this new role. I’m here to help strengthen the bond between the players and staff, especially with so many familiar faces still in the squad.”
With 14 players from last season sticking around, it’s a unique situation for Tyrone—coaching teammates he’s only just stopped playing alongside. But if you think he’s worried about the transition, think again.
“I was already doing a lot of this informally—chatting to players, giving advice, helping where I could,” he says. “Now, I get to do it as a coach. I’ll be working closely with the defence and making sure the boys stay sharp, motivated, and confident. They trust me, and that makes a huge difference.”
You’d think after nearly two decades on the pitch, a summer off with his feet up would be well-earned. But not for Sterling.
“When you step away from the game, your relevance can fade quickly,” he says. “I didn’t want that. I want to stay involved and learn this side of the game, and Margate’s the perfect place for that. I talked it through with the family and decided—why not dive in?”
And while the boots are officially on the shelf, there’s still a tiny spark in Tyrone’s voice when asked if we might see him back in action.
“If a miracle happens—and we’re really short—maybe,” he jokes. “I’ll stay fit, just in case Ben or the team need a hand in training. Never say never, right?”
As for what Tyrone brings to the table? Besides tactical knowledge and defensive nous, it’s his hunger and mentality that stand out.
“I’ve had a long career, and what I’ve learned is that mentality is everything,” he explains. “I want the lads to take their chances, to look back on this season with pride. I might not be in the matchday squad, but I’m just as hungry to win.”
Tyrone’s return was warmly welcomed by supporters at the recent fans’ meeting—a gathering he describes as “heartfelt” and “emotional.”
“They gave me a huge cheer on the night,” he recalls. “Margate’s fans are the reason I’ve stayed loyal. I want to help bring the club back to where it belongs and keep that special connection between the players and the fans alive.”
