Following the end of their 2014-15 Vanarama Conference campaign, Torquay United manager Chris Hargreaves has set about rebuilding ahead of the 2015-16 season by releasing nine players.
We will now have a closer look at the nine, which Hargreaves decided were surplus to his requirements.
MARTIN RICE -
Former Exeter keeper Rice's departure brings the curtain down on a second spell at Plainmoor that began back in 2011 when he was re-signed by former Gulls manager Martin Ling from Truro City. An able deputy to Bobby Olejnik and Michael Poke, Rice was never quite able to firmly establish his credentials as a first choice keeper.
DALE TONGE -
A vastly experienced right-back, Tonge ends a two-year spell in south Devon which has been largely disappointing. Having not featured for the Gulls since October, due to a knee injury, Tonge, who has won promotions with Barnsley and Rotherham United, will probably be looking for a club nearer to his native South Yorkshire.
AARON DOWNES -
A wholehearted performer, Aussie centre back Downes has been one of United's most consistent performers during the past 12 months. However, due to the fact that Downes was one of the higher earners at the club as well as Hargreaves' desire to find more pace in defence, the decision was made to let him go. During his three years at Plainmoor, Downes won the club's Player of the Year award in the 2012-13 season, and could well be facing United in the rebranded 'National League' next season.
KRYSTIAN PEARCE -
The club's Player of the Year last term, Pearce has failed to hit those heights this season in the Vanarama Conference and a change of scenery will surely benefit both player and club in this instance. Hopefully his next port of call will be in the Football League, as those who remember Pearce's displays in the 2013-14 season will know that he was more than comfortable at that level.
THOMAS CRUISE -
The former Arsenal starlet, who once appeared for the Gunners in a Champions League group game against Olympiakos, has struggled with injuries during the campaign just gone. Once again, in Cruise's case, a fresh start in new surroundings would beneficial for him.
MICKEY PARCELL -
First year pro Parcell spent most of the season on loan at Bideford in the Evo-Stik Southern League and Hargreaves stated that he would have kept him on if the Gulls had their own Development squad. He shouldn't have a problem finding a club at non-league level, as Bideford boss, and former Gulls midfielder, Sean Joyce frequently praised his contributions for the Robins.
COURTNEY CAMERON -
Ex Aston Villa youngster Cameron has been inconsistent for the Gulls and also expressed a desire to Hargreaves to return to his native Midlands. When at his very best, Cameron has proved he is more than a match for most Conference defences and could also be lining up against the Gulls next season.
DUANE OFORI- ACHEAMPONG -
After scoring six goals for the Gulls earlier in the season, Ofori-Acheampong looked as though he would turn out to be a real find for Hargreaves, having been playing non-league football in the South East since being rejected by Southend United at 18. However, a family bereavement meant that Ofori-Acheampong has decided that his future lies in the South East closer to his family. He is a player who will probably receive a warm welcome back to Plainmoor should he ever return as part of a visiting team.
ELLIOT BENYON -
Benyon's first spell at Plainmoor between 2007 and 2011 was an unqualified success. He helped the Gulls win promotion back to the Football League, he even provided the assist for Chris Hargreaves in their Play-off final victory over Cambridge United. His prolific scoring for the returning Gulls earned him a move to Swindon Town for £125,000 in January 2011. Since then he failed to hit those same heights with the Robins, Southend United and in his second spell at Plainmoor and he was loaned out to Hayes and Yeading in Conference South for part of this season.
Further decisions will be made by Hargreaves on the futures of non-contract duo Aaron Dawson and Olliver Guegen once his budget for next season is finalised. This is a fate also awaiting midfielders Ben Harding and James McQuilkin, as well as long serving striker Ashley Yeoman.
A decision will also be made on Jordan Chapell once his loan spell at Grimsby Town, who are currently involved in the Conference Play-offs, comes to an end.
Meanwhile, winger Toby Ajala and academy scholars Levi Ives and Dan Lavercombe have been offered new contracts.
