Former Bermuda international Elliot Jennings was officially announced as head coach of Premier Division outfit North Village Rams yesterday.

The announcement ended weeks of speculation over who would eventually replace the retired Dwayne (Streaker) Adams — who coached the Pembroke club to the coveted triple crown (league, Friendship Trophy and FA Cup) in his first season at the helm — in the top post for the upcoming 2007-08 schedule.

Jennings will be assisted by former West Ham striker Clyde Best and technical consultants Richard and Robert Calderon who will also lend their services at the grassroots level.

“Elliot has been one of the club’s longest serving players and he comes with qualifications. He’s like the rock in the foundation, not just as player, but also with his commitment to the club. I think he brings a new sense of commitment to the table just by example,” stated North Village Community Club (NVCC) president Shervin Dill.

“We’ve always looked for the best solutions and Elliot, of course, is a son of the soil while Clyde has had an interest in us for a number of years. He’s a close ally to Elliot and together they have formed a partnership that I think is a workable one for us.

“I think Clyde will complement Elliot with his wealth of experience, his talents and contacts. And we are looking forward to the season with the new coaching staff and have some bright things planned.”

Twins Richard and Calderon, who Dill described as “passionate lovers of the game”, also bring a wealth of football knowledge and experience to the table.

“The Calderons love football and have knowledge in terms of how the game should be developed,” Dill added. “They have a lot of experience and are also committed to seeing this team improve from the grassroots level and we are also looking forward to their contributions.

“They are going to be assisting us from a distance as consultants to help us to develop the programme throughout, and we are very excited about that.

“We have already had some preliminary talks and still have to tie up some loose ends. But we are really looking forward to the season with the view of serious development throughout the club.”

Having been given the helm of one of the Island’s most decorated clubs, Jennings — Village’s fifth coach in the past six years — is now looking for a full commitment from his players.

“I just want to try and get the best out of the players. And if I can get the right response from them, then I think we will do okay,” the former Reds midfielder said.

One of the challenges facing Jennings next season will be trying to return the club to winning ways after going without a major domestic title for the first time in the millennium last season.

“The fans at Village want results no matter what. It’s always pressure at North Village,” he acknowledged. “But the onus will be on the players to make the necessary sacrifices because they will only get out what they put in.

“That’s life in general, and football is no different than life. Village is not an easy club to coach, but I’ve been there all of my life.”

Jennings also looks forward to working alongside former English pro Best.

“Clyde is a very good person to have around because he has a lot to offer,” he said. “And I think this will be a good partnership.”