Kenichi lauded for Hearts perseverance

It has been an eventful six months for Kenichi Yatsuhashi. And his doggedness has drawn special praise.

Hearts of Oak board member Frank Nelson has lauded the Japanese-American for staying firm during these trying times. Having had to deal with unpaid salaries for February and March, the players and technical team not also paid, the former college coach could have easily walked out on the job.

But he has simply superintended strong results by the Phobians, and they’ve kept going despite many challenges. This week, the 46-year-old used Twitter to make it known that he intended to honour his two-year deal.

“That is the best thing for the coach to do because from the beginning he signed a two-year contract with us and from the contract I don’t think there have been any issues in terms of a breach from Hearts,” Nelson told Joy Sports.

“We made sure we have stayed in line with all issues that have been raised and we have maintained stability that will make the contract a workable one.

“I’m very happy he has come out to say he is ready to see out his contract and we will make sure we give him all he needs to ensure we do well because our club is what matters.”

There had been talk about the coach leaving at the end of the season, but he is glad the coach has “done the right thing”.