Gavin Ward | His City return, the 1992/93 season & the FPA
After a successful spell of representing the Bluebirds between 1989 and 1993, Gavin Ward recently returned to the Welsh capital, taking up the Goalkeeper Coach role on an interim basis.
Gavin was a popular figure during his time with the Bluebirds and is now working with our First Team goalkeepers, as well as aiding the development of the Academy shot-stoppers.
"I’m immensely happy to be back," Gavin began. "It happened so quickly, within a day or two, I'm down here after the initial phone call. It was out of the blue, but it was always in the back of my mind that I'd love to come back to Cardiff City and coach at some point and it’s fantastic to be able to do it.
"I played for a lot of clubs in my career, which I suppose you do when you've played for 20 years, but there's a couple of clubs that are special to me because of the memories that I have and Cardiff City is certainly one of those.
"Coming back in, being in and around the Club and the people here, everybody is so friendly. Both personally and professionally, it was a no brainer for me."
During his playing days, Gavin was part of the 1992/93 side that won the Third Division, as well as lifting the Welsh Cup in the same campaign.
Gaining promotion to Division Two, City finished three points clear at the top of the table and recorded a 5-0 win over Rhyl in the Welsh Cup Final.
Reflecting on that season, Gavin continued: "It was just one of those times when everything clicked at the Club. It was like a big wave between the Club, the fans, everybody, it was a great place to be and I have fantastic memories of that.
"When we got promoted, we had such a good mix of young and experienced players at the time and that’s what you need to be successful. It really kickstarted my career and that’s why that year holds such special memories for me.
"Eddie May was different class, what a man. He was a big, imposing sort of character, both physically and as a man, but he was great and he got the best out of us. He knew when to give you tough love, but also when to put the arm around you. He was just a fantastic guy to work with.
"The days when we got promoted and winning the Welsh Cup were brilliant. The amount of people from Cardiff City that were there was crazy. The fans showed unbelievable support and really made a difference. Winning the Welsh Cup was great because it was a way into Europe, what an experience that was. They were happy memories that stay with you for the rest of your life."
At our home fixture against Plymouth Argyle on October 19th, members of the 1992/93 squad will be in attendance, as part of the Former Players' Association, which aims to maintain a connection with Bluebirds from yesteryear.
"I think at any football club, it’s important," Gavin added. "You have to remember the past, what the Club means and the history of the Club. As a player, going into a Club, it’s important to know that the Club means a lot to the people in the area.
"It’s great that the Club remembers players of the past and that connection is always important."
Former players wishing to become members of the FPA are requested to fill in the registration from HERE.
Former players who are not online can also contact Roger Gibbins directly by calling 07808 787901 or by emailing ccfc.fpa@gmail.com
Sponsorship opportunities are also available. For all enquiries of this nature, email damon.searle@cardiffcityfc.co.uk