It was a tumultuous time for American coach Jamath Shoffner after he signed up to lead Belgian Challenger League side Oostende in avoiding relegation. The job was made even more difficult due to off-field problems where the American owners were accused of breaching Financial Fair Play regulations and were docked nine points, although before the end of the season, did get three of them back.
The University of North Carolina at Charlotte alumni resigned from his head coaching job with top Luxembourg side F91 Dudelange this past January in order to take over the reins of De Kustboys, who were going through a difficult period after losing their top flight status at the end of last season.
Winning against SL 16 FC, Standard Liege’s Reserves, on the last game of the season lifted a huge weight from not only the coach but the players, the staff and of course the fans.
“I am incredibly happy for the entire club,” Shoffner told the press. “Under these circumstances, winning a match like this is a real testament to the mentality of our players. They have been through a lot this year and deserved to stay up [in the Challenger League]. I am also very happy for our supporters that we were finally able to win a match at home. It was the perfect way to end the season where they could all celebrate with each other and the team. A day to remember.”
Looking back over the past several months, he continued, “It hasn’t been easy, but together we achieved our goal. I would like to thank the players, technical staff, support staff, all employees and volunteers. They have put countless hours into helping the club and achieving this result.”
He had a special shout out for the KVO fans, who were put on an emotional rollercoaster yet still supported their team both home and on the road.
“I can’t thank them enough for their support. They traveled in large numbers on our trips and they also supported us at home time and time again. Thanks, thanks, thanks!”
In order to achieve just about anything in life, it is also important to have a strong support system in place. The 45-year-old coach certainly has that and also praised them.
“First and foremost, my wife and my five children. They stayed in our hometown in Luxembourg while I was here. They have sacrificed a lot for me in recent months. I saw little of them, but their encouragement and strength helped me to keep going.”
“Last but not least, as a Christian I would also like to thank God for his guidance over the past few months. Even after I made mistakes, he continued to push me to trust him. I thank him for bringing me to KV Oostende.”
Now is the time for Shoffner to reflect, rest a bit and most importantly, spend some quality time with his family. His break will be short and soon Belgium’s only American coach will be back on the coast again, building and preparing a team to fight their way back into the Belgian Pro League.
