CHRISTOPHER Bender was appointed the new head coach of Tivoli Gardens following the sudden death of Alvin Shaw last month.

Bender, who ended the season as co-coach of Waterhouse FC, told the Jamaica Observer he is up to the task after accepting the hot seat.

“It’s like going to an exam and you’re asked by the person at the door if you are ready to take the exam. Whether you are ready or not, you are in,” said Bender.

“You prepare yourself before the exam and I have been preparing myself. It’s a test of my character and Tivoli is no different than any other inner-city club,” he pointed out.

Bender, who had premier league coaching stints at August Town and Humble Lion, held his first meeting with the players last Thursday.

“The approach was made from last year sometime and for a couple of reasons, it was never finalised. I was approached again this year and I accepted it,” said Bender.

Tivoli Gardens FC, formed in 1970, is the most successful club of the modern era with premier league titles in 1983, 1999, 2004, 2009, and 2011. The West Kingston-based club finished sixth last season on 47 points — 22 behind champions and fierce rival Arnett Gardens.

“First of all I want to put the club in a better position than it presently is in. The team came sixth and obviously we want to do better, but it’s a process and there are some things you have to put in place and hopefully, the things we set out for in the beginning we can achieve those things,” said Bender.

Bender, who is also a part of the National Women’s coaching set-up, will have his first training session with his new club on Monday.

The new coach, who steered Camperdown High school to the semi-final of the Manning Cup where they lost to eventual champions Jamaica College, is looking to strengthen the West Kingston outfit.

“The club has been looking at some players that they would like to have and are in dialogue. I have highlighted some of the areas where I think we need strength. Actually all of the areas need strengthening based on the team I watched last year,” noted Bender.

“The hierarchy is not satisfied with some of the players and they will have to do what they have to do. It’s a new beginning and hopefully it can work,” he added.

Although he wants to strengthen, Bender will have his hands full holding onto some keys players who are looking elsewhere.

“I have heard that some players are in negotiations with other clubs. Nothing is confirmed as yet, but as the weeks go by we will sort it out as to who is leaving and who is staying” said Bender.