The man behind Shepparton United’s most successful stint of the modern era has flown back to the nest.
Roven Shaholli, the Blues’ brainstrust during the club’s 2016 Goulburn North East Football Association and 2018 Bendigo Amateur Soccer League premierships, returns in place of outgoing coach Lewis Coyle, who switches factions to Shepparton South.
It’s a welcomed reunion for all involved on the royal blue side of McEwen Reserve.
Shaholli began his Shepparton football journey at United, serving as player-coach throughout the halcyon days of the late 2010s.
He moved on to Goulburn Valley Suns at the turn of the decade, trying his hand at under-21 coaching duties before taking some time away from the round ball game.
Now, he can’t wait to get back in the driving seat.
“It feels great coming back home to the club that I started at and the club I call family,” Shaholli said.
“I am looking forward to developing great people, not only in soccer, but also in everyday life.”
Shepparton United finished fourth in the 2023 BASL campaign, making a first-round finals exit.
The club came under Coyle’s tutelage in 2022, but with the Englishman swapping colours for the South end, Shaholli will look to lead the Blues back towards their former glory while ensuring the future-proofing of the side.
“I want to create a lot of good memories for everyone to cherish like we have before,” he said.
“I am a big believer in investing in young players to become something they have dreamed of and at the same time enjoy their experience.
“Overall I just want everyone within the club to have a lot of fun together.”
Meanwhile, United also announced the re-signing of women’s coach Jean-Claude Giuca.
Giuca arrived at the start of last season with a rich pedigree, having been involved in women’s programs at Melbourne National Premier League sides Avondale and Heidelberg United.
He led the Blues to a league cup victory and grand final appearance in 2023, re-establishing United to power after a dominant reign last decade.
Lastly, Paul Falk returns as the club’s youth coach after producing back-to-back grand final wins with the under-16s in 2022 and under-18s in the most recent campaign.