Jon Obika has announced his retirement from playing and will join our coaching staff for the 2024/25 season.
The forward missed large spells of the 23/24 season with a recurring hamstring injury and following discussions with Stuart Kettlewell, has opted to hang up his boots and focus on his coaching career.
On his new role, Obika said, “I just feel this is where I’m supposed to be.”
“When reflecting back, I just knew that this opportunity doesn’t come often under people you value and respect. I feel honoured.”
After discussing his motivations behind the decision to progress as a coach, Obika expressed the experience and dedication of Stuart kettlewell as a motivating factor.
“The gaffer was a big part [of my decision],” Obika explained.
“When he first came in, just watching how he took over and across the 18-months seeing him work, he is someone you want to deliver for. I feel in this role, I can deliver for him.
Having developed a closely-bonded relationship with players, coaches and supporters over his two and a half year spell in North Lanarkshire, Obika described how vital the close connection will be during the first steps on his coaching journey.
“The fans have been fantastic since I’ve come here,” Obika said.
“Before I joined St. Mirren, there was a chance of coming to Motherwell, but things didn’t work out, so it’s always been a club I’ve looked out for.
“You can see how committed [the fans] are to the cause. As players, we feel it and now even more as a coach, I feel I can deliver.”
Stuart Kettlewell said, “This has been something we’ve had in the pipeline.”
“I‘ve often said how nice a person Jon is. His season has been tricky from a playing perspective due to injury and extending his contract beyond this season wasn’t something we were going to do.
“However, I feel Jon’s experience in the game, playing at various levels, mixed with his personality, is a perfect combination for a first-team coach.
“Obviously, it’s been a big decision from Jon to hang up the boots, and one we wanted him to take his time over.
“Thankfully, he has agreed to our proposal and now we can look forward to him bringing fresh ideas to the back room staff next season.
“It’s an exciting time at the club as we continue to build for the future.”
