Management
Jon McDonald
A Wallsend lad, Jon made the move to The UTS Stadium in early March of 2021 from Northern Premier League side Morpeth Town, where he had held the equivalent position for three seasons.
During his second spell at Craik Park, he had been part of two successive promotions with “The Highwaymen” and a Northumberland Senior Cup victory in the 2018/19 season.
He brings with him a wealth of experience and knowledge.
He has previously managed Blyth AFC, guiding them to The Northern League 2nd Division title in the 2017/18 season, as well as managerial spells with West Allotment Celtic and North Shields in The Northern League.
Jon successfully completed his UEFA A License with The Scottish FA in March 2022.
Following the departure of Chris Swailes at the end of the 2022/23 season, Jon was installed as Dunston FC Manager in May 2023.
Coming in as Manager, Jon firmly believes that the club are ready to attack the season ahead and make more history. He said: “We have a great group of players, with a good chemistry and we are not far away. We played some great football last season but just feel short on the final day. We will use that as motivation for the coming season.”
Mark Scott
Mark joins the club with experience in coaching at South Shields FC and North Shields FC where he worked with assistant manager Jon McDonald, More recently, he has spent time at Spennymoor Town FC where he was part of the academy coaching staff. He holds a UEFA A License and will be a superb addition to an already vastly experienced coaching set up.
Upon joining the club, Mark said: “I’m delighted to join the club. As an opposing player and coach over the years I have always admired Dunston as a well-run and successful club.
Ian Irving
Ian joined the club’s coaching setup in August 2021 before stepping down in November 2022. Ahead of the 2024-25 season, he rejoined the club following Andy Wright’s departure from the management team. Ian enjoyed a successful playing career at the likes of Ashington, Blyth Spartans, North Shields and Whitley Bay. He also worked alongside Dunston Manager Jon McDonald at Blyth Town where the duo achieved a promotion from Northern League Division Two.
Lewis Black
Lewis joined Chris Swailes’ back room staff in July 2021 having completed 3 years of studying at Newcastle College University Centre, graduating with a First-Class Honours Degree in Exercise & Sport Rehabilitation.
Alongside his studies he completed a three year placement at Park View Academy of Sport and was able to develop his skills as a practitioner.
Following on, he then became sports therapist for Chester-le-Street United.
Lee Kennedy
Lee joined thebackroom staff at the start of the 2022/23 season bringing with him a wealth of experience. He has worked with a range of teams at all levels of the game.
On arrival to the club, Lee explained: "Coaching at the UTS Stadium with a talented group of young goalkeepers was a fantastic opportunity I couldn't refuse. The club have shown real ambition in the close season and there is a great feel around the squad, I'm looking forward to a successful season ahead"
Assistant manager Jon McDonald highlighted Lee's quality before his arrival: "I've known Lee for a number of years. He's an honest, reliable bloke and will be an asset for Dunston. He's spent years supporting grassroots football at Cramlington United, working with junior and senior teams. He has good attributes to bring out the best in our goalkeepers"
