Summer greetings to all our readers. This end of season edition of Football Focus Magazine offers you a selection of clubs who we feel are a good example of how to provide a safe & local environment where their communities can enjoy Football and connect with like minded people. Without exception these clubs are ran by exceptional people who maintain a healthy, on and off field, balance. Many good hearted business people ensure the books are balanced whilst fostering a genuine goodwill and love for their club; coaches and voluteers give freely of their time not just to produce technically gifted players but to take care of the whole human being for their own good and that of society - this attitude does ultimately produce the best players.
Enjoy :)
AFC TOTTON
Onwards and Upwards! Play-off Winners 2024/2025.
Historically the Greatest Achievement in the Club’s 139-Year Existence!
STEVE BROOKWELL CEO
”AFC Totton is not just a football club; it’s a family!”
Growing up in Southampton, I always had a love for football, and like many young lads, I dreamed of playing for the Saints. Unfortunately, I wasn’t selected when I tried out at 16, but that didn’t stop me. I ended up joining the Royal Navy, where I served for a while before returning to nonleague football. Football has always been my passion, and even when I wasn’t playing, I stayed connected to the game.
In 2004, I got involved with Eastleigh Football Club as a board member, and I stayed there until 2015. That was when the opportunity to acquire AFC Totton came about. The club was facing a tough time, teetering on the edge of administration, and I couldn’t bear the thought of seeing such a historic club go under due to mismanagement. I pulled together a group of footballminded business people to step in, with the aim of not just saving the club but making it a sustainable, community-focused organisation.
From the start, I knew that sustainability was key. We couldn’t risk the club’s future for short-term success. We needed to run the club as a viable business so it could thrive long term. Our vision was always to have a football club that was the heart of the community, and over the years, we’ve worked hard to make that happen. We started planning for a hybrid model, with the eventual goal of going full-time, but always in a way that made sense financially. It’s been a lot of hard work, but I’m proud of how far we’ve come.
One of the most defining moments for us this season was the Southern League Premier Division South Play-Off semi-final against Dorchester Town. We were 2-0 down, and to be honest, it looked like we were in real trouble. But the team didn’t give up. We got a penalty, and Scott Rendell put it away. Then Tony Lee scored, and suddenly we were back in it. Well into stoppage time, Tony Lee raced to the edge of their box and steered the ball into the bottom-left corner to see our fans erupt. Dorchester responded immediately to send the tie into extra-time. What a game!
With Dorchester pressed back into their own half I just knew we were going to do it. Taking up a position between two Dorchester defenders, Charlie Austin brought the ball down and poked it into the bottom-left corner to send AFC Totton into the Play-Off final against Gloucester City.
It was an unbelievable moment, and it showed the resilience and spirit of this club and its supporters.
That resilience continued as we moved on to the final, where we faced Gloucester City. The tension was high, but when Ethan Taylor scored in the 70th minute, securing a 1-0 victory, it was the culmination of everything we’d worked for. We’d made history. AFC Totton was going to the National League South for the first time ever. I couldn’t have been prouder of the team, the fans, and everyone who’s been involved in making this possible.
A key part of our success over the past few years has been the appointment of Jimmy Ball as our manager. When Jimmy joined us three years ago, I knew we were bringing in someone with exceptional experience and leadership qualities.
He had been at the heart of successful teams, and his knowledge of the game, especially at non-league level, was exactly what we needed. His tactical awareness, his ability to build a cohesive squad, and the discipline he instilled in the players were game-changers for us. He wasn’t just a manager; he was someone who understood the community aspect of the club and worked tirelessly to bring the best out of everyone. When we awarded him a fiveyear contract early on, some people were sceptical, but it was a decision based on trust and vision. Now, looking back, it’s clear that he’s been one of the most important factors in our success. Under Jimmy’s leadership, we’ve won multiple trophies, and the squad’s spirit and cohesion are stronger than ever.
Looking ahead, we know the challenges won’t stop here. The National League South is a big step up, and we’ll need to be more competitive than ever. But we’re not just here to survive. Our ultimate goal remains to reach the Football League, but we won’t rush it. I’m a realist – it’s not going to happen overnight, and we’ll have to build the infrastructure to make sure we’re sustainable when we get there. We’ll go full-time when the time is right, but we’ll also be conscious of not putting the club at risk just for promotion.
I’ve always said that one of the things that makes AFC Totton so special is how much of a community club we are. It’s about everyone coming together – from the players to the volunteers, from the staff to
the fans. It’s all about that sense of unity, and it’s something that makes us strong, even in the toughest times. The supporters have been incredible, traveling far and wide to back us, even in the most difficult moments. Over 1,000 fans attended our home games this season, which is just remarkable and speaks volumes about the bond between the club and the people of Totton.
AFC Totton is not just a football club; it’s a family. My
son, Harry, works with the first team, and my wife, Paula, has been my biggest supporter. She’s been with me through thick and thin, traveling to games and supporting me in every way possible. Without her and the rest of my family, I wouldn’t be able to give everything I do to the club. Having that kind of backing from my family, as well as from everyone else at the club, has been crucial in helping us achieve what we
have today. Looking to the future, we’ll continue to build on the foundation we’ve laid. We know that reaching the Football League won’t be easy, but we’re going to take it one step at a time, focusing on solid management, good recruitment, and making sure that we remain a club that is both competitive and sustainable. We’ve achieved a lot in a short amount of time, but this is just the beginning.
STEPHEN SNOW
Stephen Snow could not have wished for a more dramatic start to his tenure as AFC Totton Chairman.
Appointed to the role during a two-week lull between fixtures in October 2021, he and the Board had to immediately focus on recruiting a new first team manager after Glenn Howes and his assistant James Wood jumped ship to Dorchester Town – a local rival who, at the time, were a division above The Stags and were due to visit the Snows Stadium in the FA Trophy in Totton’s very next match.
Interim boss Dan Sackman led his side to a famous 2-0 victory over The Magpies, sparking a cup run that also featured a 5-0 clobbering of National League South side Concord Rangers on their own Canvey Island ground on a freezing cold Saturday afternoon in November.
And while it hasn’t been smooth sailing all the way, the progress the club has made since then has been as persistent as it has been impressive.
“One of the first things we did as a Board when I took on the role of Chairman was to establish a clear set of objectives, as a guiding light for the many decisions we would be required to make on behalf of the football club and the wider community-based organisation that underpins it,” says the 60 year-old Chairman and CEO of the Snows Motor Group, which recently celebrated its own 60th anniversary since the formation of the business.
“We set ourselves the difficult target of reaching the Football League within a challenging timeframe, while also looking at ways we could leverage the benefit of the excellent facilities we have at our disposal to make the Snows Stadium a significant community hub and a welcoming place for everyone who visits.
“Our offering as a hospitality and events venue has come on leaps and bounds very quickly, while we’ve also established AFC Totton in the Community as a registered charity,
connecting us with many local organisations doing tremendous work to provide help and support to vulnerable people throughout the region.
“That growth has been matched by the expansion of our youth set-up, which at the last count numbered 38 teams. The success of our women’s team, in particular, has encouraged local girls of all ages to get involved in football and I’m pleased that so many have chosen to do so with us. Meanwhile, the AFC Totton Academy continues to go from strength-to-strength, aided by astute partnerships with specialist organisations that help us to deliver educational excellence on-site throughout the academic year.
“It is tremendously rewarding to see the club making bold strides towards those challenging targets, both on-and-off the pitch, but none of it would be possible without the hard work and dedication of the staff and volunteers who – along with the fans who show up in their numbers to support everything we do – are the lifeblood of the football club. We are truly stronger together.
“Among other clubs we have something of a reputation for being a moneybags club, but the truth is that we are very well-organised, motivated in our cause and dedicated to achieving positive results throughout the whole organisation. That’s true whether in relation to
securing sponsorship deals, providing excellent media coverage, hosting successful events or engaging with other charitable organisations to promote their causes.
“My experience as Chairman of AFC Totton has been immensely enjoyable. I am extremely proud of the progress we have made over the last few years and I’m determined that we continue moving in the same direction. We are about to take a big step up to the National League South but with the talented, conscientious people we have, giving so much of their time and effort to the club, and more getting involved all the time, I’m looking forward to the season ahead with eager anticipation.”
JIMMY BALL TEAM MANAGER
“We can dream, we can hope, but most importantly, we can give everything we’ve got to try to make it happen.”
I was born in Paddington, London, and spent my childhood moving between the south coast of England and the Manchester area. My dad was playing at Southampton and then managing at Portsmouth, so football was always part of my life from a young age. I played as a kid on the south coast, and I was alright. I wouldn’t say I was the best, but I was good enough to catch the eye of a few clubs who showed interest in signing me on schoolboy forms. I ended up deciding to go to Exeter City, which was where I became an apprentice.
At the time, my dad was involved with Exeter too, but despite being there, I just didn’t have what it took to make it as a professional player. It didn’t take long for me to realise I wasn’t going to be successful at that level. So, I quickly turned my attention to coaching. The transition came about while I was rehabbing from an injury, and I went to Canada to get some experience. It was sort of by chance that I took a coaching session with a school run by Ted McDougall. Ted`s own playing career took him from Liverpool as an apprentice to York City, then a prolific spell at Bournemouth & Boscombe Athletic. He moved on to Manchester United, West Ham United, Norwich City, Southampton and back to Bournemouth and was involved with AFC Totton in the early-80s before winding down. He later transitioned into coaching under my dad at Blackpool (player-coach, 1980) and again at Portsmouth as reserve-team coach (1998–99), before serving as Youth Director of Coaching with the Atlanta Silverbacks.
I ended up working with
a young player, and as fate would have it, I later brought him over to England. I showed him to a few clubs, and he eventually signed a contract with Manchester City. That experience hooked me on coaching and player development.
After that, I went on to have various coaching roles, including a youth team coach at Portsmouth, where I had the chance to work with some talented players like Gary O’Neill. I then went on to manage in America, before returning to England to work at Stoke City’s academy for eight years. Then came the opportunity at Forest Green, followed by a role at Stevenage as assistant manager. From there, I eventually ended up at AFC Totton.
I’ve been at AFC Totton for almost exactly three years now. The journey here started after I lost my job at Stevenage. It was frustrating because I didn’t feel the sacking was justified, but as they say, football’s about opinions. I was down here playing in a charity match for Saints, and one of the guys playing in the game mentioned that AFC Totton
was looking for a manager. Initially, I wasn’t interested in going into non-league football, but after meeting with the board and seeing the club, I was genuinely impressed by what they had to say. The more I saw, the more I liked, and I decided to give it a go. I’ve loved every minute of it since, and the club has been extremely supportive from the very first day I walked in.
This past season was a bit of a milestone. It was the first one where there was real expectation. In the previous seasons, there wasn’t much pressure, and things went better than expected. The first promotion was a bonus, and finishing second in our first year in the Southern Premier was above expectations. But going into this season, we were favourites, and there was a lot riding on it. It was tough, no doubt about it. But we ended up with the best defence in the league, the lowest number of goals conceded, and the least amount of games lost. That solid defensive foundation was key to achieving the success we desperately wanted. Defending well makes a massive difference, of course.
It takes a lot of pressure off the forward line. When your defence is solid, you know that you don’t have to score three or four goals to win a game. We rarely conceded more than one goal in a match, and that gave the team a sense of confidence going forward. We could attack with more belief knowing that if we did our jobs up top, the defence would be there to back us up. It gave the whole team a sense of security and belief in what we were doing. It built confidence, and that’s vital.
As for the Gloucester City final, we always felt confident going into it. The Dorchester game was going to be a tricky one because of the way they play and how they set up, but once we got through that, we felt we had the upper hand in terms of quality. Gloucester City was going to be a tough game with few chances, but we backed ourselves, and the players stepped up when it mattered.
When it came to the celebrations, I can’t say it was a quick night. It lasted a bit longer than that—more like a few nights and even into the following week. But the win meant a lot to all of us. AFC
Totton is a special club. I’ve said this before, and I’ll say it again—the people at the club are grounded, and it’s well-run. It’s not about someone with a lot of money coming in and making quick decisions that might harm the club longterm. This is a self-sustaining club that lives within its means, and that’s something I’m proud to be part of.
As we move up to the National South next season, it’s business as usual for me. I’ve always had clear targets
for the players, and now I’m focused on making sure we’ve got a squad that’s capable of being competitive. I don’t want to just make up the numbers in the National South. We’re here to try to make an impact and give it everything we’ve got.
The club is very much community-oriented, and that’s something that’s always been important to me. We have an academy, and I’m always focused on bringing through local talent. There’s
something special about a homegrown player, and we work hard to get our academy boys out on loan to experience men’s football. It’s crucial to their development, and it’s something that gives me a lot of satisfaction. We don’t just throw young players into games for the sake of it— they need to earn their spot and prove they’re ready.
As for the future of the first team, the ambition is always to push forward. The financial implications
of moving up through the leagues are enormous, and I don’t think many people realize what that entails. From the Southern League to the National League, the costs are astronomical. For example, our away trip to Torquay will cost nearly £9,000. It’s a huge financial commitment, and we have to consider what’s right for the club. Moving up the leagues comes with big challenges, and it will take a lot of money to reach the Football League. But as a manager, I’m just a custodian right now. My job is to ensure the club is in a better place when I leave, no matter how long I stay. This club has been here long before me, and it’ll be here long after me. I want to do what’s right for the future and for the generations to come. We can dream, we can hope, but most importantly, we can give everything we’ve got to try to make it happen. At the end of the day, it’s about being as professional as possible and seeing where that takes us. And as I said, with the people we’ve got at this club, I’m confident that we’ll keep making the right decisions, no matter what happens.
“I don’t hold onto regrets. Mistakes and challenges shape us, and if you learn from them, they can lead you to become stronger and wiser.”
I was born in Manchester, in the year my dad transferred from Everton to Arsenal. Being a footballer’s child meant we moved around quite a bit. My sister was born in Liverpool when Dad played for Everton, and my brother Jimmy was born in London. We also spent time overseas—in America, Vancouver, Canada, and even Hong Kong when Dad was playing for Vancouver Whitecaps later in his career.
Growing up in such a football-oriented family, we were always immersed in the sport. Mum taught us early, “if you can’t beat them, join them,” so football was always part of our lives, even if I didn’t initially work in football myself. It wasn’t until more recently, with my brother Jimmy becoming the manager of AFC Totton in 2021, that I became directly involved in football professionally.
My two sons, Mack and Jimmy, both have excelled in their own fields. Mack, now 19, is a professional footballer at AFC Bournemouth. He’s been with the club since he was eight. My eldest son Jimmy is a professional dancer and has performed internationally, recently completing a contract in New York. It’s funny because initially, Jimmy, not Mack, was the one who showed early football talent, but at around 12 or 13, he chose dancing. Mack, interestingly, started out as an outfielder before a goalkeeper coach spotted his bravery in goal, and he was soon scouted by Bournemouth.
The path wasn’t always clear for my boys to become elite performers. We faced immense personal challenges as a family. My mum was diagnosed with cancer and passed away when my son Jimmy was just six months old. Shortly after, within three years, Dad suddenly passed away as well. These losses profoundly impacted us as siblings, making our bonds even stronger. As a family, we’ve always stuck together and supported each other through everything.
Joining AFC Totton in their Commercial and Sponsorship department happened quite naturally. My brother Jimmy suggested I come to help out, given my background in sales at Capital Radio. I started by just casting an eye over things but quickly found myself fully engaged. It’s essential in football, especially at this level, to succeed both on and off the pitch. I’m now fully involved, securing sponsorships and building relationships with brands like Garmin. It was amazing to have Garmin, a global brand, renew their sponsorship right after our promotion. They’re genuinely excited about our journey, and it’s rewarding to know I’m contributing to the club’s ongoing success.
Being a woman in football, especially in a predominantly male environment, requires a particular mindset. You have to be direct, transparent, and yes, sometimes a bit bossy. But I’m fortunate at Totton; it’s a welcoming, familyoriented club where everyone contributes—from volunteers and bar staff to the players and the chairman. Jimmy’s vision has always been to create the most professional non-professional club possible, and that’s the ethos
I work to uphold. Every penny spent here, we must earn. It’s demanding, but incredibly satisfying when it all comes together, especially after successes like two promotions in three seasons.
Of course, working closely with family isn’t without emotional challenges. During the playoff semi-final against Dorchester, when we were two-nil down with just minutes left, my thoughts weren’t solely about the football—it was about managing the disappointment that Jimmy and his family might face. But then we won and ultimately secured promotion against Gloucester City in the final. It was a relief and incredibly rewarding after all the hard work we’d put in. I’m immensely proud of Jimmy; I know how talented he is and fully believe in his ability to lead us further.
Reflecting on my life, despite the difficulties and tragedies we’ve faced, I don’t hold onto regrets. Mistakes and challenges shape us, and if you learn from them, they can lead you to become stronger and wiser. As Dad’s favourite song says, “I had some regrets, but too few to mention.” That’s how I prefer to live—embracing life fully, learning, and constantly moving forward.
JAMES BEATTIE
DIRECTOR OF FOOTBALL
I joined AFC Totton as Director of Football in the summer of 2024, and I’ve been thrilled by what Jimmy Ball and the players have achieved this season. Midway through our campaign, we sat second in the Southern League Premier Division South, narrowly missing out on the title in the regular season. But the real joy came in the playoffs: first a dramatic semi-final against Dorchester Town, when we came back from 2–0 down deep into injury time to win 4–3 in extra time—Charlie Austin’s 119th-minute strike will live long in my memory Then, in front of a sell-out crowd at The Snows, Ethan Taylor’s 75th-minute goal secured a 1–0 victory over Gloucester City in the final, earning promotion to the National League South for the first time in our 139-year history.
As Director of Football, my day-to-day blends scouting, recruitment and strategic planning. Jimmy and I discuss the squad’s needs, then I open negotiations with other clubs—whether that’s persuading Torquay’s Paul Wotton to loan us Ben Seymour or exploring permanent signings on budgets that are competitive, if not the biggest in the division. We’re building a culture of consistency: celebrating wins, learning from defeats, and sticking to our principles on and off the pitch.
Looking ahead to 2025–26, we’ll be one of 24 teams in the National League South alongside the likes of Bath City, Chelmsford City, Dagenham & Redbridge and Maidenhead United. Our immediate objective is straightforward: consolidate our place, adapt to the step up in quality and travel, and secure safety with a handful
of games to spare. Beyond that, the blueprint hasn’t changed—we intend to challenge for the play-offs again, backing Jimmy with targeted signings that blend proven experience and hungry young talent.
Off the field, I’m working with Steve Brookwell, Stephen Snow and the board to enhance our facilities, improve youth pathways and deepen community engagement. We’ve already seen record attendances, and we want to make The Snows a destination: matchday experiences that bring in new fans, stronger academy links, and partnerships that drive both revenue and social impact.
My football journey from Southampton, Everton, Blackburn and beyond taught me the value of professional structures even at non-league level—and that’s exactly what Jimmy and I aim to deliver here. Non-league thrives on passion, but it also needs clear planning, strong relationships and an unwavering focus on player development. I’m proud of what we’ve achieved, excited by our National League South adventure, and more determined than ever to push AFC Totton’s trajectory upward in the seasons to come.
CHARLIE AUSTIN PLAYER
I still remember that night at The Snows like it was yesterday. When the ball came to me just outside the box, my first touch set me up perfectly, and I knew I had one chance. I planted my shot low into the corner—nothing fancy, but enough to beat the keeper. The roar that followed told me we’d done it: AFC Totton were promoted to the National League South for the first time in our history.
I joined the Stags in July, after James Beattie reached out while I was on holiday. I told him I still wanted to test myself in the professional leagues, but the more we spoke, the more I realised how special this club is. Training with Jimmy Ball and the
lads, I felt I could still make a difference. My career has taken me from Swindon to Burnley, QPR, Southampton— where I scored a winner at Old Trafford—and even a spell in Australia, but returning to non-league roots with Totton felt right.
Scoring that play-off-final winner against Gloucester City was more than just another goal. It was the culmination of months of hard work, belief and sheer desire. We’d battled through a tense campaign, built a squad that trusts each other, and now we were stepping into new territory. I couldn’t have been prouder to pull on this shirt and help write a brand-new chapter in the club’s history.
Off the pitch, I know football isn’t just about what happens between the lines. Earlier this year, AFC Totton marked World Mental Health Day with a short film, “On The Same Page,” encouraging anyone struggling to take that first step toward support. I’ve seen firsthand how powerful it can be to speak up—through my own ADHD journey, I learned that opening up isn’t a sign of weakness but of strength. If you’re finding things tough, whether it’s on the pitch or in life, please reach out to a friend, a family member or one of our club volunteers—you’re never alone, and the first step is always the hardest.
As we prepare for life in the National League South, my focus is on helping this club compete at that higher level—on and off the field. We’ll need smart recruitment, relentless work ethic and the unwavering support of our community. I can’t wait to get started, and I hope every Stags fan knows just how much I appreciate their backing in this incredible journey.
GRAHAM LYCETT
LONG STANDING FRIEND,
SUPPORTER & SPONSOR:
LIVEWIRE MARKETING
I’ve lived just eight minutes from AFC Totton’s ground for most of my life, and once my son Thomas joined their youth system, I naturally found myself drawn in. I’m no former pro—my own playing days were at step 6 nonleague, a decade-long stint as an unremarkable right-back and occasionally in goal— but watching Thomas thrive reignited my passion for the sport. Helping him navigate the football maze seemed the obvious next step.
Thomas started with Totton’s youth sides and eventually broke into their first team, but his ambitions reached beyond our local patch. At 14 he earned a place in Leicester City’s development academy, and by 17 he’d made his Conference North debut for Darlington FC. Seeing him come on as a substitute before a 3,000-strong crowd was the proudest moment of my life. Credit for his growth belongs largely to Tommy Wright—first as a coach at a Loughborough University summer camp, then as manager at Darlington— whose mentorship gave Thomas the confidence and professional guidance academy systems often lack.
When Tommy invited Thomas to follow him north, I watched my boy move six hours from home, juggle living alone and semi-pro football, and learn invaluable life lessons in self-reliance. Although injuries and the pandemic forced him back south, he never lost the drive instilled by Wright or the resilience cultivated at Totton. Today Thomas plays for Hythe & Dibden FC in the Wessex Premier—another tight-knit, community-minded setup where he’s logged over 35 games this season, free of longterm injury and rediscovering his love for the game.
Alongside being handson, I’ve supported Totton off the pitch: my agency, Livewire Marketing, built their current website and I sponsored them for six seasons, providing both cash and pro-bono marketing services worth well into five figures. Stepping back from day-to-day board meetings at the club two years ago allowed me to focus on my own business, yet I remain a proud advocate of what Steve Brookwell, Stephen Snow and the team have built. They took a club once on the brink of administration and, through sound planning and community engagement,
turned it into a self-sustaining hub—complete with disability and walking football, youth outreach programmes, and charity initiatives.
self-belief—and that’s why I’ve spent years ensuring Thomas and hundreds of other local kids experience it. Thomas’s journey—from Totton youth fields to that unforgettable Darlington debut, through Leicester’s academy, trials across the non-league north,
and now back in the heart of our community—reflects the transformative power of good coaches and committed clubs. I’ll always be grateful to Tommy Wright for guiding him, and to the entire team at AFC Totton - the other directors, volunteers and fans. for making AFC Totton a beacon of what community football can achieve.
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BEN PRITCHARD
COACH, SUPPORTER & SPONSOR: BTH SERVICES
I’m from Totton, just a five-minute walk from the ground, so AFC Totton has always been a big part of my life. My earliest memories are of going to the old ground as a youngster, playing cup finals there, although those memories are pretty faded now. But I vividly remember getting back into it when we played Bristol Rovers in the FA Cup—it feels like a lifetime ago, but it really rekindled my connection to the club.
Now, I’m deeply involved with AFC Totton, coaching the
under-nine girls’ team, which includes my daughter, Poppy. We trained for a full year before we could join a league, and now we’ve just completed our first competitive season. The progression the girls have made has been incredible; it honestly chokes me up seeing how their confidence has grown and how they’re playing football the right way.
As coaches, that’s all we ever ask for.
Poppy absolutely loves AFC Totton—she refuses to wear any other team’s shirt, even though she’s keen to play more. Our garden at home is practically a mini football field, complete with goals and about 200 footballs scattered everywhere. We spend every evening out there playing, no matter how tired I am after work.
My passion for the club goes beyond coaching—I travel to almost every senior men’s match, home and away. I only missed a handful of away games last season, and just one home game due to a family holiday. I’m absolutely Totton mad; it’s a huge part of my life.
AFC Totton is special because of its people—the staff, volunteers, players, and fans. It genuinely feels like a big family. The players are approachable, friendly, and connected with the community. They interact with the fans, join us for a drink after matches, and engage with us on social media. For my daughter’s birthday, several first-team players even sent personal messages wishing her happy birthday, which meant the world to her.
Ultimately, it’s those moments—standing on the terraces with my daughter beside me, watching football week in, week out—that create memories I’ll cherish forever. AFC Totton isn’t just a club; it’s family.
ANDREW WAIGHT SUPPORTER & SPONSOR: SOLENT STREETWORKS CONSULTANTS LTD
AFC Totton holds a special place in my heart. Born and bred in Totton, my connection with the club began around 20 years ago, initially sparked by my love for Southampton FC, which was nurtured through attending games with my granddad. When Saints played away, I’d often head down to watch Totton at their old ground, Testwood Park, just enjoying the simplicity and community spirit of grassroots football.
I’ve witnessed Totton grow dramatically from those early days. I recall when the facilities were basic, just some tin covering at one end of the pitch and modest clubhouse amenities. Today, the transformation is remarkable, though the heart of the club remains unchanged. The spirit, the community, and the dedicated volunteers still make AFC Totton incredibly special.
The recent playoff semifinal against Dorchester epitomized what makes Totton unique. Listening to the nail-biting finish—going from 2-0 down to clinching victory in added time— reinforced the resilience and passion that characterizes the club. Moments like these aren’t just thrilling; they’re deeply emotional because you know the effort the players and community put in all season.
The community is undoubtedly AFC Totton’s secret weapon. Everyone pitches in voluntarily, from the social media team to initiatives like our pool team, aiming to boost club revenues and visibility. This collective effort truly defines the club’s spirit. It’s about pulling together, backing each other, and making our small town successful.
My business, Solent Street Works, has proudly sponsored the club for around six years. While the sponsorship may not always directly translate into business opportunities— given our niche industry—it’s about more than that. It’s emotional, driven by my love for Totton. Seeing my business name pitchside is something I cherish deeply. It’s a genuine sense of pride and belonging.
Ultimately, what makes AFC Totton stand out is its people. From Jimmy Ball, our down-to-earth manager, to Steve Brookwell, and the dedicated fans who turn out game after game, everyone contributes to a warm, inclusive atmosphere. It’s a family club where personal relationships matter deeply. The recent success and growing interest are just the rewards of years of communal effort and genuine passion.
For me, AFC Totton is far more than just a football club—it’s a community that embodies unity, resilience, and genuine friendship.
LISA MCLAREN SUPPORTER & SPONSOR: SCENTS OF OCCASION
I’ve lived in Totton for about 23 years, and it’s a place I genuinely love and call home. Running my business, Scents of Occasion, a local florist, has always been about more than just flowers; it’s about giving something back to the community that supports us. From donating bouquets to local schools and charities to brightening up the town with plants during COVID, community involvement has always been a core value of mine.
My relationship with AFC Totton began organically. I had followed the club for a few years, admiring their spirit and energy from afar. When the opportunity to sponsor them came along, it felt like the perfect fit. After meeting with Keely, I became an official sponsor, handling all the flowers for VIP events
and special occasions at the club. This connection soon blossomed into something much deeper and more personal.
What makes AFC Totton truly special to me is the incredible sense of family. Everyone, from the players and management to the fans, makes you feel genuinely welcome. It’s not just sponsorship—it’s friendship and support on every level. On busy game days, I’ve even stepped behind the bar to help out. The atmosphere, especially during crucial matches, is extraordinary. I was there for both the semi-final and the unforgettable final. Those moments of tension, excitement, and pure joy will stay with me forever. The energy at the playoff final was amazing—people dancing, singing, celebrating, and beer flying everywhere. It was a day etched into Totton’s history.
AFC Totton is more than just a football club; it’s the heartbeat of our community. It brings together people of all ages, creating memories that last a lifetime. To see local families, familiar faces from my business, and friends cheering side-by-side at the stadium is incredibly special. We may be a small Town, but the pride and unity we share through AFC Totton is immense. It truly feels like being part of one big, extended family.
KEVIN HEBENTON CLUB DIRECTOR, SUPPORTER & SPONSOR: ROMSEY DENTAL CARE
I’ve been really fortunate to have a close connection with AFC Totton, both as a director, a sponsor, and a passionate fan. My journey with the club started when one of the other directors, Sam, invited me down to take a look around. After that, I got involved with sponsorship, and eventually I was asked to invest in the club. I joined the board just before the treble-winning season of 2022/23; I was there when we sealed the Southern League Division One South title and for our subsequent successes in the Champion of Champions Super Cup and the Southampton Senior Cup. Being part of that historic treble was incredible, and I’ve been involved ever since.
Football has always been a big part of my life. Growing up in Dundee, I supported Dundee United, and I have many fond memories from those days. I wasn’t really exposed to much football beyond the Scottish Premier League and occasional trips with my son Oliver to watch Liverpool, so non-league football was new to me. But once I experienced it, I caught the bug. There’s something special about non-league football that reignited my passion for the game. I even gave up playing golf on Saturdays—something I used to do religiously—because I just love being at the club so
which I’m a trustee of, to bring in underprivileged groups and help those who might otherwise feel isolated. We’re close to launching our first pan-disability children’s team, which would be huge for the club and help us gain a threestar FA rating.
much. My family are involved too: my wife Laura, my son Oliver, and my daughter Florence all enjoy coming down to matches. While Laura and Florence aren’t huge football fans, they love the community feel and spending time at the club.
What drew me to AFC Totton initially was the potential of the club and the strong sense of community. It genuinely feels like a family. Everyone knows each other, parents bring their kids, grandparents come along, and the atmosphere is just fantastic. We even set up a charity—AFC Totton in the Community—
Watching the matches this season has been an emotional rollercoaster. The highs of beating Dorchester Town and Gloucester City in nail-biting games are unforgettable. I still remember the sheer joy and intensity—especially that last-minute goal in extra time against Dorchester. On the other hand, the disappointment of the Salisbury game last year hit me hard, and for a while, I wasn’t sure I wanted to watch football again. But it’s moments like the Dorchester game that remind you why you love the sport.
Being part of AFC Totton means being part of something more than just football. It’s about the people—the fans, the players, and everyone who
works behind the scenes. We have supporters who were Southampton fans but have now chosen to support Totton, some even giving up their Saints season tickets. That’s something special. After games, you’ll often find the players and staff mingling with fans and kids in the bar, creating memories and inspiring the next generation. Charlie Austin, in particular, is brilliant - not just on the pitch but off it, too. He’s very open about his own challenges, which really helps people in our community. James Beattie, our Director of Football, brings more of that same star quality and Jimmy Ball has made himself extremely popular as a result of the excellent job he is doing.
At the heart of it all is the passion, the dedication, and the family atmosphere. Whether it’s matchday or community events, AFC Totton feels like home to us. My family and I are proud to be part of this club, and I’m excited to see where the future takes us.
PAUL CHEATER
SUPPORTER & SPONSOR:
INDEPENDENT PLUMBING
SUPPLIES LTD
My connection to AFC Totton began through my friendship with Steve Brookwell, someone I greatly respect and appreciate for his genuine passion for football and the community. We first got involved with the club last year by sponsoring their pre-care, and it’s quickly grown into a meaningful relationship. I’ve attended several games, including both the semi-final and final playoffs, and those experiences were unforgettable.
The semi-final playoff, especially, was an incredible experience—dramatic and intense, a perfect showcase of the club’s spirit. AFC
Totton stands out to me as a truly special club due to its welcoming atmosphere and the genuine friendliness of everyone involved. Players, coaches, and staff mingle openly with fans, which creates a real sense of belonging and community.
Aside from football, my sister Sharon Brady and I run Independent Plumbing Supplies, a family business we started in 2013. We have a luxury bathroom showroom and a plumbing merchant, and now my daughter Shannon, who’s nearly 18, is actively involved in the business. She’s thriving and already has her own loyal customer base, which makes me incredibly proud.
Charity work is also deeply important to us, especially after the tragic passing of Sharon’s husband, James
Brady, at the age of 57 from a heart attack. In his memory, we raised £22,500 from our first charity ball and £43,000 last year. With these funds, we’ve provided numerous defibrillators to community centres, religious institutions, football clubs—including AFC Totton—and even portable units to local fairs. Last year, our donated defibrillator at AFC Totton was used during an emergency, demonstrating just how crucial these lifesaving devices are.
AFC Totton’s community
engagement aligns perfectly with our values, as Steve and the club regularly support charitable efforts, including hosting defibrillator training sessions. It’s genuinely rewarding to be part of such an inclusive, communityfocused club, and we’ve committed to sponsoring AFC Totton for at least the next three years. This partnership means a lot to me personally and professionally, and I look forward to continuing our support for years to come.
the general public. We provide a wide range of plumbing and heating supplies at very competitive prices and we are very passionate about all things bathroom. We offer high quality bathrooms and our team can design and style all bathrooms around your specific needs and requirements. No job is too big or too small. We will always go the extra mile for all our customers.
JOSH WILLIS FORMER PLAYER, SUPPORTER & SPONSOR: DOLPHIN MOTORHOMES
I’ve lived in Southampton all my life, along with my family, who have always been passionate football fans. Growing up, we supported Southampton and closely followed our local nonleague teams. My personal connection to AFC Totton began back in 2001, when I briefly played for the club’s first team, making a handful of appearances.
Two years ago, I reconnected with the club when Keely, whom I’ve known for about 20 years, reached out to me. She told me that her brother Jimmy was now managing the team and asked if I’d be interested in discussing a possible sponsorship. I visited the ground one June day to meet Keely and found Jimmy busy mowing the Totton & Eling pitch himself—keenly preparing for a preseason match to evaluate new trialists. Although his line-marking skills might have been a bit questionable, his passion and dedication were immediately evident. Jimmy shared the club’s ambitious plans, introduced some exciting new signings, and I was instantly hooked by both his enthusiasm and Keely’s remarkable pride and determination to see Jimmy succeed.
Over the course of this past season, my family, some of our Dolphin Motorhomes
staff, and I managed to attend six games, including the playoff semi-final and final. The atmosphere during these critical matches was absolutely fantastic, especially seeing the team achieve promotion. The quality of football was impressive— fast-paced, attacking, and enjoyable to watch.
We started sponsoring AFC Totton at the beginning of the 2023 season, and it’s a partnership I sincerely hope will continue for many years. Our business, Dolphin Motorhomes, began in 2003 and is a family-run operation with branches in Southampton and Christchurch. We sell a wide range of new and used motorhomes, and I’ve found many parallels between football and business: both require hard work, strong team spirit, and continuous reinvestment.
Much like our own business, where employees have become integral to our success, AFC Totton fosters a similar sense of inclusion and unity. Ever since my initial conversations with Keely and Jimmy, and later interactions with club owners, the chairman, and staff behind the scenes, I’ve been impressed by how brilliantly the club engages with staff, fans, and sponsors, making everyone feel part of its ongoing achievements. It’s genuinely exciting to be associated with AFC Totton at such a remarkable time in their long history.
SUPPORTER & SPONSOR:
A-CUTE MEDICAL
I’ve always had a close affinity with AFC Totton, tracing back many years. My earliest memories are from when I was working with the NHS ambulance service, stationed near Totton’s old ground. Occasionally, we’d pop along to watch matches, and I grew fond of the club. Even though my lifelong support has been for Southampton FC—where I managed the medical provisions from their days in the First Division back to the Premier League until 2012— Totton always held a special place for me.
My son Ashley grew up in Totton and played for Fawley Falcons FC for a time. Though he no longer plays, he’s remained passionate about local football and still follows AFC Totton closely.
A couple of seasons ago, my company, A-Cute Medical, became a sponsor, providing medical cover for Totton’s home games. For me, providing our services to the club has always been about supporting football, not just business.
I’ve particularly enjoyed watching Totton this past season. Standing by the
dugout during games, I’ve admired Jimmy Ball’s coaching. His passion reminds me vividly of his dad, Alan Ball—the England World Cup hero—who I watched and admired as a player. I didn’t get to meet Alan, unfortunately, but knowing Jimmy and Keely Ball is a real privilege. They’re genuine, grounded people whose involvement adds greatly to the club’s character.
My daughter Olivia shares a nice connection too; she used to look after Charlie Austin’s family in hospitality when he was at Southampton. Seeing Charlie again at Totton and exchanging a few words has been enjoyable. He remembers Olivia well, and those interactions reinforce my personal connection with the club.
For me, AFC Totton’s greatness comes down to their genuine passion and community spirit. From the directors to the players, everyone at the club has a deep commitment. It’s that unified passion, mirrored in my own company’s ethos, that truly sets Totton apart and makes being involved with them such a fulfilling experience.
Through our training academy we can deliver a wide variety of courses; from first aid to safeguarding, health and safety to pre-hospital care we have courses to meet your requirements. At a-cute we are a registered Qualsafe Centre and also deliver courses awarded by NUCO training. We make our courses as fun and interactive as possible to allow learners get the best out of their learning experience with us.
GARMIN UK
Garmin UK, whose European headquarters are located near Totton, are the main sponsor of both the home and away jerseys of AFC Totton and also benefits from matchday advertising at Snows Stadium. Additionally, Garmin provides AFC Totton with advanced fitness-tracking devices, significantly enhancing player performance and injury management. Under manager Jimmy Ball, AFC Totton has enjoyed remarkable success, culminating this season as promotion winners in the play off finals against Gloucester City AFC. Garmin’s fitness technology, including Forerunner® smartwatches and HRM-Pro Plus chest monitors, enables detailed player monitoring and customized training programs, contributing
to improved fitness levels and fewer injuries.
Jon Oliver, Managing Director of Garmin UK & Ireland, praised AFC Totton’s professional approach, ambitious developments, and community-focused initiatives, such as the AFC Totton Academy and Development Programme. He emphasized the alignment of values and objectives between Garmin and AFC Totton, highlighting mutual benefits of their continued partnership.
Jimmy Ball emphasized Garmin’s pivotal role in providing a competitive edge through data-driven insights, directly influencing training strategies, team selections, and overall team performance, marking Garmin’s ongoing sponsorship as crucial to AFC Totton’s continued success.
&
SPONSOR: PROTECTION & INVESTMENT LTD
I’ve been a lifelong football fan, born and bred around Southampton. Totton has always been a special place to me—it’s more than just a satellite town next to Southampton; it’s got a real identity and community spirit. I grew up just about a mile from Totton, and while I played football in my youth, I still keep active now by playing walking football for Eastleigh’s over-60 side. Walking football is brilliant— it’s a slower-paced version where you can still enjoy the game without the physical strain, and it’s a lot of fun. There’s a real camaraderie to it, and it’s nice to keep that connection to the sport, especially as you get older.
AFC Totton is one of those great community clubs you don’t come across every day. It’s well-run, sustainable, and deeply rooted in the local area. I’ve known Steve Brookwell for over 35 years through local football, and I can honestly say he’s the heartbeat of the club. Steve is the kind of true football fan who lives and breathes the game, not just a businessman wanting a hobby. His enthusiasm sometimes gets him stick—like when he charges his own players for socks in charity games—but that’s part of his charm. He’s the poster boy for passion and commitment at AFC Totton.
The club has gone through its ups and downs, like many grassroots clubs. I remember when they played at Testwood Park and the big moment when they reached the FA Vase final at the new Wembley in 2010. They lost narrowly to Truro City, but that run gave the club a real lift. Then came the move to the Testwood Stadium and some rocky times financially, but people like the late Wayne Mew and Dave Penny came in to save the club. That was when Steve got involved, and together they began to build a club that truly reflects the community around it.
Totton is special because it’s very much a town where everyone knows each other. Walk into their ground, and you’ll recognize 30 or 40 people in the bar. That kind of community feeling is priceless. I’ve seen how the club supports and integrates the youth teams, with the under13s doing incredibly well at a national level, showing how much care goes into nurturing talent. There’s a pathway there, something that Jimmy Ball and James Beattie, who both have close ties to the
club, really focus on.
One of my favourite memories is from a charity game a few years back when I played for a mixed AFC Totton side against an exSaints team. The old Totton kit was ridiculously tight on us all—none of us could breathe properly! And the socks?
Most of the players had cut the foot part off to wear their special grip socks underneath. We didn’t have enough full socks for everyone, so Steve, being Steve, made us all chip in and buy six pairs from the club shop. That’s just typical Totton—funny, down-to-earth, and with a great sense of humour.
The club is growing steadily, but they’re not rushing things. There’s a real sense of sustainability here, not like some clubs that throw money around and then disappear. Steve and the directors understand the balance between ambition and reality. They want to be in League Two someday, but they know they have to take it step by step. The fan base is growing, the youth academy is building, and the connection with Southampton FC offers exciting potential. What keeps me coming back, even though I’ve been a Southampton season ticket holder for over 50 years, is the atmosphere at Totton. When I watch Southampton and they lose, it can ruin my weekend. With Totton, win or lose, it’s enjoyable. It’s about being with people you know, sharing the experience. That
connection—the community, the banter, the shared love of the game—that’s what football is really about for me.
So yeah, AFC Totton is a club with heart. It’s about the people behind it, the fans, the players, and the management who genuinely care. And with people like Steve Brookwell leading the charge, I’m confident the club will continue to thrive for many years to come.
At Solent University, we pride ourselves on fostering strong community ties, and our relationship with AFC Totton exemplifies this commitment. Our collaboration offers students invaluable hands-on experiences across various disciplines, including physiotherapy, sports journalism, film production, and sports science.
Our physiotherapy students are actively involved with AFC Totton’s teams, providing preand post-match massages and treatments. This real-world application of their studies is crucial for their professional development. Similarly, our sports journalism students engage in match reporting and manage the club’s social media content, gaining firsthand experience in sports media.
In the realm of film and media, students utilize our £2 million green screen studio to produce content such as goal celebrations and promotional materials for the club. This not only enhances their technical skills but also contributes to the club’s outreach efforts.
Our sports science students conduct fitness testing and performance analysis, working closely with AFC Totton’s head
of performance. Strength and conditioning students collaborate with the coaching staff to develop training programs, while our football coaching students participate in community initiatives, promoting the sport at the grassroots level.
The partnership extends to educational programs as well. We sponsor AFC Totton’s academy education program, with our staff contributing to lesson delivery. In return, the club utilizes our state-of-theart £28 million sports complex, providing their players with access to top-tier facilities.
This symbiotic relationship not only benefits our students by offering practical experience but also supports AFC Totton’s growth, especially as they advance to the National League. The club’s openness to student involvement is commendable, setting them apart from highertier clubs that may be more protective of their operations.
Our students consistently report positive experiences from their placements with AFC Totton, highlighting the club’s supportive environment. This collaboration embodies our mission to prepare students for their future careers through immersive, real-world learning opportunities.
Additionally, I have
immense respect and appreciation for the individuals at AFC Totton who are instrumental in driving the club forward. Coach Jimmy Ball is exceptionally supportive and proactive, always enthusiastic about innovative projects.
CEO Steve Brookwell provides excellent leadership and maintains a strong vision for the club’s future. Keely Ball, handling Media and Marketing, ensures the club’s communications and events run seamlessly, greatly enhancing our collaboration.
Looking ahead, we’re exploring innovative projects, such as developing a documentary series that offers a behind-the-scenes look at non-league football, further enriching our students’ educational journey.
At Solent University, we believe in the power of community engagement and practical experience to shape the next generation of professionals in sport and health.
Southampton Solent University has long been a pioneer in football education. Through launching one of the first BSc Football Studies degrees within the sector in 2006, we’ve helped shape and prepare students for a wide variety of careers across the world of football. What began as a single course has evolved into a full football education pathway, one that supports students from their first steps in the game to the highest levels of academic and professional achievement.
Today, students can begin their journey with a foundation year at level 3, consider our level 4 apprenticeship route, move onto/or start the entry at undergraduate level with our
BSc (Hons) Football Studies degree (Levels 4 to 6). The progression can lead to the MSc in Football Performance (Level 7), and even pursue advanced research through our PhD and MRes programmes, all underpinned by football and designed to make a real impact on the sport we love.
The Football Studies programme is built around core pillars that reflect the key components of the game, these address coaching, development, sociology, psychology, and performance analysis, all taught through a football lens. These areas remain relevant and forward thinking, and thanks to our strong connections within football industry, our students benefit from learning which is deeply embedded in the football environment and those contemporary issues associated to the game. They’re not just learning about football, they’re being
prepared to lead and shape its future on a global scale.
Our pathway attracts a diverse range of students, from UK and international learners to current professional players, association funded candidates, and club sponsored individuals. These students are drawn by our commitment to personal and professional development and our strong reputation across the football pyramid.
Support for our students extends far beyond the classroom. We offer women’s leadership initiatives, regular guest lectures from leading football figures, alumni mentoring, visits to male and female professional clubs, an award-winning Wellbeing in Sport podcast and the highly recognised Football Science and Performance Research group, who produce relevant and contemporary research outputs, often through staff and student collaboration.
It’s a dynamic and supportive community where those within the football world come together to guide, inspire, and develop the next generation of talent.
We believe legacy and culture are at the heart of lasting impact.
At Southampton Solent university, our Football vision is bold, to be the ‘Home of Football Education’. That belief drives our dedicated staff every day, those staff who have taken the responsibility to grow pathways for women in football, create placement opportunities and produce a footprint in industry unlike any football course in the sector. Our greatest measure of success lies in our students, the the continued student recruitment, their experiences during their degree, and the outcomes they secure as graduates. At Solent, football education isn’t just what we do, it’s who we are.
SUPPORTER & SPONSOR:
PARTNER AT ERIC ROBINSON SOLICITORS.
I am a proud sponsor and supporter of AFC Totton. Born & raised in and around the Southampton area, I’ve always known about the club, but my deeper connection began after moving to Totton about six years ago. A chance conversation with Stephen Snow, who I’ve known professionally through his business, Snows Motor Group, sparked my closer involvement with the club. Stephen outlined his vision and suggested Eric Robinson Solicitors become the legal partner for AFC Totton due to our presence in the local area and traditionally being a Southampton-based firm. The team at Eric Robinson felt it was the right moment to join and look to become part of the club’s ambitious plans at an early stage, and we’ve now been a sponsor for three seasons.
The attraction for me has always been about the people involved at the club. AFC Totton is exceptional at community engagement, thanks largely to their grounded leadership, including Stephen, Steve Brookwell and others who’ve applied their business acumen to football. They’ve established a strong boardroom structure, visibly improving over the past few years. This solid foundation, combined with a shrewd football setup in place with Jimmy Ball and James Beattie amongst others will, I believe, enable the club to continue climbing the football leagues in the years to come.
Non-league football has a unique charm—it’s accessible, community-oriented, and genuinely local. People appreciate that personal touch, like sharing a pint with the players or meeting someone like Charlie Austin, who, despite his Premier League background, is refreshingly down-to-earth and open about life’s challenges.
Attending the recent semi-final play-off match was remarkable. At Eric Robinson Solicitors, our motto is ‘Making Law Make Sense,’ and ironically, nothing about that match made sense. AFC Totton were seemingly finished at half-time but rallied spectacularly in the second half, with Austin eventually scoring the winner in extra time when it looked like penalties were looming. The atmosphere was superb, highlighting the unpredictability and excitement of grass roots football.
Experiences like this and indeed the final play-off
match, which was an edgy affair and all about just getting the result, underscore why supporting a local club matters. Even with a young family, making it tricky for me to attend games regularly, I look to be present for significant matches. Both the semi-final and final were brilliant games to experience, creating memorable days. It felt like the whole of the Totton was willing the team to get over the line, especially after last year’s heartbreak in the final.
Ultimately, what makes AFC Totton special is its grassroots feel—part of the community fabric, hosting various events throughout the year, ensuring the club remains genuinely connected
over and above the football. Although aspirations to reach the football league will bring inevitable change, maintaining that local, community
connection will always be essential. AFC Totton exemplifies local spirit, making my Firm’s involvement both rewarding and enjoyable.
UXBRIDGE FC
“Promoted! Safe to say the best day in the Club’s history and as that’s over 150 years it’s quite something! The Reds are going UP!”
MARK BANTOCK CHAIRMAN
It’s been quite the journey at Uxbridge FC, and sitting as chairman through this incredible season has been a rollercoaster of emotion, passion, and pride. To say we’ve reached a milestone is an understatement—we have just won our first playoff final in 17 years, something that felt distant just a short time ago.
When I look back at where we started this season, losing our first three games, it’s almost surreal to find ourselves in this position. I vividly remember meeting Danny, our manager, after that tough loss at Harrow Borough. There was a moment when we both felt the weight of expectation and concern, but we stuck by each other. Loyalty isn’t a word often used enough in football, but I genuinely believe it’s been our strength. We gave Danny time, and he and his coaching staff responded with outstanding leadership and recruitment, turning our fortunes around dramatically.
Our playoff semi-final night was something special—700 fans packed into our ground,
a sight I’ll never forget. Normally, we see around 170 supporters on a match day, so to witness such passion, excitement, and community spirit was deeply moving. As chairman, my role that evening wasn’t about influencing the game itself but ensuring everyone had an unforgettable experience, from entry to catering. Seeing our volunteers come together to make that night a success filled me with immense pride.
In the run up to Sunday’s playoff final, it was impossible not to feel the tension. But more than anything, I feel pride. Pride in the players, the management, the volunteers, and our supporters, who’ve shown unwavering passion and commitment. Uxbridge FC isn’t just about football; it’s about community, about belonging. We’re seeing more people reconnect with football through clubs like ours, clubs that retain the soul and genuine engagement that top-level football has perhaps forgotten.
What an incredible match day and an unforgettable achievement for everyone connected to Uxbridge FC, past and present.
Becoming chairman wasn’t initially on my radar, and I probably wouldn’t have considered it seriously had it not been for my mum, Jill. At 82 years old, she’s still actively involved in the club, running the boardroom every home game. Her passion and dedication inspired me and convinced me to take up the role following Alan’s passing. She embodies what our club represents: dedication, passion, and an unwavering community spirit
Our journey hasn’t just been about this season or even the past few years since I became chairman following the footsteps of my late stepdad, Alan Holloway. It’s about laying foundations for future generations. I see myself as a caretaker of this club, with the duty to protect and nurture it for the long haul. Whether it’s supporting Orchard Hill College in their work with disadvantaged youth or keeping our admission prices affordable, the club’s ethos will always remain community-focused. It’s not just about the immediate successes or challenges. It’s also about nurturing our youth setup and potentially revisiting the idea of a development squad to bridge the gap between our youth team and senior side. While we’ve faced logistical challenges and practical difficulties, these elements remain integral to our vision for the club’s future. The aim is clear—to provide a tangible
pathway for young talents to thrive at Uxbridge FC. What we’ve built here at Uxbridge FC goes beyond any single result. It’s about people coming together, feeling part of something bigger, and carrying forward a legacy that started long before us. That’s what makes being part of this club so special, and why I’m incredibly proud to lead it.
PLAY OFF FINAL-REPORT
4TH MAY 2025
We went into Sunday’s playoff final at full strength, despite the tough midweek extra-time battle against Kingstonian, while Hanworth Villa came in fresher after a 90-minute win over Ascot United. Early on, Villa had the better of possession and even took the lead after 16 minutes, sending their fans wild in front of the record-breaking 1,535 crowd at Honeycroft. But we didn’t let our heads drop — we pushed back hard, and just before half-time, Ada Okorogheye bravely headed home to level the score, setting up a tense and thrilling second half.
The nerves were clear on both sides after the break, but on 75 minutes, George Moore — who’s been delivering big moments all season — stepped up once again. Picking up a loose ball on the right, he cut inside and buried a shot into the bottom corner, sending us 2–1 ahead. From there, it was a rollercoaster of emotions, including a heart-stopping moment when Moore himself cleared a goalbound effort off our line, and another late scare when Villa’s substitute fired just wide.
But when the final whistle blew, the eruption of joy on and off the pitch was something I’ll never forget — even bringing lifelong fans to tears. After 17 years of waiting, Uxbridge FC are finally promoted, and we owe it to the phenomenal effort of Danny Edwards, the players, the coaching staff, and everyone behind the scenes.
We also carried the memory of absent friends with us: club legends like Alan Odell, Alan Holloway, and David Tucker, whose dedication over the decades helped shape this club into what it is today. And special thanks must go to chairman Mark Bantock, whose leadership has been crucial in turning Uxbridge’s fortunes around.
Now, we head into Step 3 football next season full of optimism.
Founded on 3rd February 1871, Uxbridge Football Club is among England’s oldest football institutions. The club’s early years were marked by friendly matches, with a notable FA Cup entry in 1873, where they reached the second round. During this period, players Hubert and Francis Heron represented England while associated with Uxbridge. Financial challenges led to a temporary dissolution in 1874, but the club reformed in 1879.
In 1886, Uxbridge merged with Uxbridge Crescents, briefly adopting the combined name before reverting. The adoption of red shirts in 1887 earned them the nickname “The Reds.” The club’s first trophy came in 1889 with the West Middlesex Cup. The late 19th century saw further successes, including multiple cup victories and reaching the FA Amateur Cup final in 1898.
Uxbridge became founding members of the Southern League Division Two in 1894 but withdrew in 1899 due to financial strains and declining attendance. After a brief hiatus, they rejoined competitive football in the early 20th century, participating in various leagues and securing cup victories. Post-World War I, they added “Town” to their name and joined the Athenian League, though they faced relegations and league changes in subsequent years. Footy Grounds
In 1946, Uxbridge became founder members of the Corinthian League, enjoying a period of stability and success, including a league championship in 1959–60. A significant milestone was the acquisition of their own ground, Honeycroft, in 1948. The club faced challenges in the 1960s and 70s, including relegations and ground issues, leading to a move to their current Horton Road location in 1978.
The 1980s and 90s saw Uxbridge achieving
cup successes, including multiple London Challenge Cup victories. In 2004, they transitioned to the Southern League, reaching the play-offs on several occasions. A return to the Isthmian League South Central Division occurred in 2018.Uxbridge FC
The club has been home to only six managers in over fifty years, with Danny Edwards taking the helm in 2019. Under his leadership, Uxbridge secured the Middlesex Charity Cup in 2022 and 2023.
Recent years have seen the passing of key figures, including President Alan Odell in 2016, Chairman Alan Holloway in 2021, and longserving Treasurer David Tucker in 2022. Tucker’s legacy facilitated significant ground improvements, including a state-of-the-art 3G pitch and upgraded facilities.
LATEST DEVELOPMENTS
(AS OF MAY 2025)
Uxbridge FC concluded the 2024–25 season with a commendable performance. They secured a spot in the Isthmian League South Central Division play-offs, finishing second in the league. In the semi-final on 30th April 2025, Uxbridge faced Kingstonian at Honeycroft. The match ended in a 2–2 draw, with Uxbridge triumphing 5–4 in the subsequent penalty shootout.
The Reds are now set to compete in the play-off final against Hanworth Villa on Sunday, 4th May 2025, at 3:00 PM. A victory would see Uxbridge promoted to Step 3 of the non-league pyramid, marking a significant achievement in the club’s recent history.
Off the pitch, the club continues to thrive as a community hub. Honeycroft, with a capacity of 3,770, boasts modern facilities, including a licensed bar and function hall available for various events. The club’s commitment to community engagement and development remains steadfast.
PATRICK GALLAGHER
SUPPORTER AND PRINCIPAL
SPONSOR: ADDISON
LEE
Being involved with Uxbridge FC has been incredibly fulfilling for me and Addison Lee. Our journey together began almost serendipitously when we acquired the neighbouring site for our new Driver Fleet Hub. I remember walking over to the club one Friday with my dog, just curious to learn more about them. That chance encounter with Andy, the club’s manager, sparked something, leading to my meeting with Mark Bantock, Uxbridge FC Chairman. We talked about their community focus and their ambitions. It resonated deeply with me, and I was hooked.
Football has always been a huge part of my life. As a lifelong football supporter, I’ve been passionate about the sport since I was a child. Even now, I still play 5-a-side and proudly wear the shirts of Uxbridge FC when I’m on the pitch. There’s something about being part of the action, about feeling connected to the game, that never fades.
For us at Addison Lee, supporting grassroots football isn’t just about sponsorship; it’s about being a good neighbour and contributing positively to our community. Uxbridge FC embodies these values perfectly. Their commitment to sustainability, their inclusivity
with youth and women’s teams—it all aligns with our own ethos of responsible corporate citizenship.
When they won the playoff final and secured their place as champions, it was a moment of immense pride. Not because of the sponsorship’s visibility, but because we felt part of their journey. Seeing our logo on their shirts symbolizes more than just a business deal; it
signifies a partnership rooted in shared values and mutual respect.
I’ve been fortunate to attend games, albeit not as often as I’d like due to family commitments. But each time I’m there, surrounded by passionate fans and community spirit, I’m reminded of why this partnership matters. It’s about making a difference together, creating opportunities, and
inspiring others. Looking ahead, I’m excited about the future of our collaboration. We’re discussing expanding our support, possibly into youth and women’s football. It’s about continuing to invest in what matters—people and community. Uxbridge FC isn’t just a club; it’s a beacon of unity and positivity, and Addison Lee is proud to be a part of that.
STORY
Our relationship with Uxbridge FC began in 2018 when David Tucker, the club treasurer, approached SSL for preliminary ground investigations. The club’s site, being an old, backfilled quarry tip, presented unique challenges. After some initial progress, the project paused due to various factors. Following David’s unfortunate passing during the COVID-19 pandemic, Mark Bantock took over the project. Mark reengaged SSL to resume the process, culminating in the successful installation of a new 3G pitch by March 2024.
Our role encompassed site
surveys, securing planning permissions, designing specifications, managing tenders, and overseeing the construction phase. We ensured quality control at every stage, from formation to the final carpet installation. Postconstruction, we conducted a 12-month defects inspection, providing maintenance advice and ensuring the pitch met all performance standards.
Beyond the professional relationship, we’ve maintained friendly communication with Mark and the club, offering ongoing support and sharing in their successes. We’re also proud sponsors of Uxbridge FC, and it’s been gratifying to see our banners featured during significant matches, including their playoff final.
JOE BONIFACE SUPPORTER, SUPPLIER & SPONSOR: VELOCITY SPORTS
We’ve had a longstanding interest in the Uxbridge FC project, which really started around five years ago through a conversation with David Tucker, a key figure at the
club who had a vision to develop their facilities. Sadly, David passed away, but he left a significant financial contribution. The club was very determined to carry forward his vision, and Mark Bantock played a crucial role in making it a reality.
When Uxbridge FC hired a specialist consultant— someone we closely work with—the scheme was put out to tender. I recall this happening around the same time last year. Once the club secured the necessary planning consents, we commenced the project toward the end of the summer.
Although I’m not based in West London—I live in Farnham, interestingly enough, close to where another club, Farnham,
finished strongly in the same league as Uxbridge—I was already familiar with Uxbridge due to my personal involvement and interest in non-league football. At Velocity, we not only build facilities but also sponsor leagues, including the Wessex League, and actively support football at various grassroots levels.
My own experience coaching my son’s team has reinforced my appreciation for local sports clubs. It’s about more than just having excellent facilities—though these are crucial—it’s about creating an environment that encourages community involvement and connection. Clubs like Uxbridge benefit enormously from safe, high-quality pitches that
can be used year-round. Such developments foster loyalty among young players, bringing junior and senior sections together, which strengthens the club’s community presence.
The key to a successful club, from my experience, lies not only in having good facilities but in having the right people involved. It’s crucial that those leading and supporting the club are in it for genuine reasons, combining passion, community engagement, and solid operational management.
Uxbridge FC stands out because their vision for the club has successfully transcended different generations. Mark Bantock stepped up to deliver on a vision that had been established long before, reflecting unity and clear purpose within the club. Having someone as committed and pleasant to work with as Mark made our experience all the more rewarding.
Ultimately, sport provides immense value far beyond physical activity. It teaches resilience, teamwork, and a sense of equality, reinforcing that everyone, irrespective of background or status, has equal value on the pitch. These intangible lessons are, in my opinion, sport’s greatest gift. I regularly see the positive impact sport has within my community, both personally and professionally.
That’s why we got involved with Uxbridge FC and similar clubs—because these facilities help clubs grow and provide meaningful, lasting benefits to their communities.
THORNABY FC
“One Team, One Club, One Thornaby FC!”
ALISON MCGEE CEO
Football has always been a huge part of my life. Born and bred in Middlesbrough, my connection with Thornaby FC started about three years ago when our company, Durata, became the main shirt sponsor for the women’s team. Sponsoring women’s sports has always been important to us—we’ve previously supported Middlesbrough women’s football, as well as men’s teams and other sports like cycling. I believe passionately that the more we get behind women’s sports, the more recognition it gains, inspiring the next generation.
This season has been incredible. Both our men’s and women’s teams at Thornaby have earned promotions, marking a major milestone for the club. Witnessing the playoff final against Jarrow was a fantastic experience—the atmosphere was electric, with our supporters turning out in force, filling the ground with noise and passion. Moments like these remind us why grassroots football is so special.
Initially, John and I balanced our Thornaby commitment alongside being long-time Middlesbrough season ticket holders. However, Thornaby FC has completely won our hearts. The community spirit, the warmth of the people, and the genuine grassroots atmosphere have made
it impossible to resist. So much so, we’re giving up our Middlesbrough season tickets to fully commit to Thornaby. Our ambition goes beyond just senior teams—we’re passionate about building strong pathways from youth football right through to senior squads. We’ve got three thriving girls’ teams and are keen to expand, introducing boys’ teams and inclusive
programs like walking football and disability teams. It’s essential to us that Thornaby becomes a community hub, welcoming everyone regardless of age or ability.
Connecting our junior and senior teams is also a key priority. Seeing our girls interact with the women’s team, joining them for prematch walks, and envisioning their future in football is
deeply rewarding. We want everyone to feel part of something bigger—one team, one club, one Thornaby.
As newcomers to managing a football club, this year has been a steep learning curve. The local community’s support has been invaluable; they’ve embraced us and our vision wholeheartedly. John and I aren’t just figureheads—we actively participate, whether it’s serving behind the bar or helping out in the kitchen. It’s hard work, but the satisfaction we get from contributing and seeing the community rally around us makes it all worthwhile.
Moving forward, we’ve got big plans. Improving our facilities, hosting community events, and engaging more deeply with local businesses and sponsors are all priorities. Thornaby FC isn’t just about football; it’s about creating a vibrant community space that brings everyone together. It’s an exciting journey, and we’re thrilled about what’s next.
ANDY CAMPBELL
DIRECTOR OF FOOTBALL
Football has been a massive part of my life since childhood, kicking a ball against the garage door until my mum, perhaps just to tire me out, took me down to Marton Juniors at five or six. Growing up in Middlesbrough, football became more than a hobby— it shaped who I am, teaching me confidence, friendship, and resilience.
I played for Marton Juniors right through my school years until Middlesbrough’s
Bone noticed me at 14.
Signing that first Schoolboy contract changed everything, and I was lucky enough to get a YTS at 16. My brother Neil had already paved the way at York City, which gave me an invaluable insight into professional football’s realities. His experiences made my transition smoother, prepared me better, and gave me the confidence I needed.
Playing professionally for Middlesbrough, my hometown club, was an incredible feeling, topped only by representing my country at Under-21 level—a pinnacle in my career. I got everything possible from the game, and now my journey continues in a different role as Director of Football at
Thornaby means a lot to me, not only because of the fantastic community spirit and family ethos but because it connects deeply to my personal life. Neil, who sadly passed away three years ago, had been assistant manager there during a successful period. His loss deeply impacted me, and returning to Thornaby as Director of Football felt like unfinished family business. Achieving promotion this year on the anniversary of Neil’s passing was emotional, as if he was looking down, celebrating with us.
The club itself has come so far. Alison, who has reformed the club, alongside John, and everyone involved have created
something special. Alison & John were sponsors of the club with their business Durata prior to their current roles. This season has been phenomenal. The men’s team scraped into the playoffs in dramatic fashion, winning promotion after a nerve-wracking final. The celebrations and emotions afterward showed just how much it meant to everyone. Equally impressive, our women’s team dominated their league, making club history by reaching the FA Cup’s first round, achieving record points, goals, and clean sheets. They surpassed all our expectations, delivering a faultless season.
Women’s football is particularly close to my heart,
Ron
Thornaby FC.
not just because of my roles managing at Middlesbrough Women and within education academies but because my daughters are involved in the sport. Watching them grow and develop their love for the game gives me immense pride. My oldest grew up around professional football, and my eight-yearold daughter loves nothing more than kicking a ball about after school. I’m determined to provide a pathway for her and all girls who deserve opportunities in football.
My vision for Thornaby is ambitious yet realistic. We’re creating pathways, nurturing local talent, and aiming high— both men’s and women’s teams. I want Thornaby to become the best semiprofessional club in Teesside. Our success so far is fantastic, but I know there will be bumps along the road. That’s football, and that’s life. But we’re committed to facing every challenge together as one club.
If Thornaby FC didn’t exist, the community would lose something precious—a place of joy, belonging, and connection. We’ve ignited something special here, and I genuinely believe this is just the beginning.
COTON GREEN FC
Promoted 2024/2025 Season to Midland Football League Premier Division!
AARON CARTWRIGHT
CLUB SECRETARY
”Being part of our club is much more than just football—it’s belonging to a community of people who give up so much to be a part of our football family.”
My first involvement with Coton Green FC started as a 9-year-old (some 26 years ago), playing in the U10 team. Following a successful junior playing career, at the age of 15, I was invited to train with the Men’s First Team who were competing in Midland Combination Division 2 at the time. The team went on to achieve promotion that season and, early into the new season in Division 1, I made my debut as a second-half substitute away at Stockingford AA, scoring the winning goal in injury time. The feeling of elation from that moment made me fall in love with the club, and my playing career flourished over a 15-year period before finally hanging my boots up at age 30 following knee surgery. One of my proudest moments was scoring the club’s firstever goal in the FA Vase—a moment I’ll never forget. Simultaneously, I began coaching and volunteering on the club committee, undertaking numerous roles
before finally settling as Club Secretary, a position allowing me to make real changes and help shape the club into what it is today.
Like any football club, we’ve faced numerous challenges, but we see these as opportunities to improve.
Within our junior section, our main challenge is balancing a developmental environment with the competitiveness required as players approach older age groups. We aim to graduate two youth players into our senior side each season, loaning players to Step 7 clubs when necessary
to ensure they gain vital experience. In our senior section, overcoming a mindset of mediocrity was key. We always knew we had the infrastructure to push higher up the pyramid. It required a full reset and fresh perspectives to become competitive and ambitious, leading to two promotions in the last four years, now placing us at Step 5 going into the 2025/26 season. Our ambitions are extensive, both on and off the pitch. We strive to impact our local community by providing football opportunities for children of all backgrounds, with a clear pathway from Mini Kickers through to NonLeague football. As a not-for-profit, all revenue is reinvested in improving facilities, benefiting both our teams and local leagues that use our ground. Recent developments include a new stand to meet Step 5 capacity requirements, and we’re already planning for Step 4, considering adding an artificial pitch to offer enhanced training and wider community usage. We continually invest heavily in maintaining our grass pitch to ensure optimal playing conditions.
Our coaching philosophy focuses on rotating training blocks, ensuring players experience all aspects of the game. The “Coton Green Way” establishes consistency yet allows the necessary flexibility in Non-League football, preparing our junior players effectively for senior football.
Established in 1982 with just a single U13 side, our club has grown significantly, now fielding 19 teams from our home at New Mill Lane, Fazeley. Notable milestones include securing floodlights in 2015, allowing entry into the FA Vase and FA Youth Cup. This year, finishing fifth in Midland Football League Division 1 and winning the playoff final dramatically on penalties against Leicester St. Andrews marks the pinnacle of our history so far.
The current mood around the club is incredible, gradually sinking in as each day passes. The emotional response to winning the playoff final was overwhelming, especially for me, my brother Jamie (Treasurer), and my dad Neil (Groundsman), who’ve collectively dedicated over 25 years here. However, we know we cannot rest on our laurels and are already focused on the next set of goals and challenges.
Historically, our player base has largely been local to Tamworth, but since 2015 we’ve attracted players from a wider area around Birmingham, supported by strong ties with Coleshill Town and Sutton Coldfield Town at Step 4. Our women’s and girls’ sections are flourishing, and we aim to replicate our male pathway’s success. Our Ladies team achieved unprecedented success, winning a league and cup double in their first season. We’re expanding junior girls’ teams and looking to add disability football to our offerings.
Sponsorship is crucial to our success. Companies such as Nisa Sandhu Stores significantly impact our club, providing kits and training wear, while others, like Anton Scaffolding and JPH Sign Fitters, contribute invaluable practical support. Our community engagement includes hosting SEN discos, dog training clubs, motorcycle instruction, and events like the upcoming CotonFest.
At its core, Coton Green FC thrives on dedication, camaraderie, and resilience. Every player, volunteer, and supporter contributes to our extraordinary club, making it a genuinely special place to belong.
PETE HICKEY, COACH & SPONSOR:
JPH SIGNS
I’ve been involved in football for quite a while now, but coaching really became part of my life when my son, JP, started playing. I’ve been coaching for about six or seven years, and to be honest, it all started because I wasn’t happy with how my son was being coached. He was with another club, and while they were doing their best, I just felt there was more I could offer him. So, I thought, why not take matters into my own hands and start coaching him myself? That’s how it all began. I didn’t plan on doing this long term, but one thing led to another, and here I am, coaching not only JP but a whole team of young lads.
About two years ago, I moved over to Coton Green FC. I was with a different club before that, but we needed a club with the right facilities to progress to a new league. So, I approached Coton Green and it’s been a great fit ever since. It’s really been about finding a place where I could nurture the kids, including my son, in the right environment.
Growing up in Tamworth, I was just like any other kid playing football with friends. I played for school teams and local pub teams. You know how it goes, just a few mates getting together, having a laugh, and getting some exercise. But that’s where it ended for me. I didn’t go on to play at any higher levels or anything, though I still have the memories of those days.
When I started coaching, it was always about doing the right thing for the lads. It wasn’t about me; it was about helping them grow. I wanted to make sure they had a better experience than I did as a player, so I worked hard to create a positive, encouraging atmosphere. Seeing the kids develop over the years has been incredibly rewarding.
Coaching my son, JP, has been the most fulfilling part of this journey. We’ve had a lot of success together. This season, we won the league and the cup, which was amazing. It’s great to see how far the team has come. We’ve had a few successes before this, including winning the league a few years back, but this year felt different.
I’m still coaching JP, of course, and that’s been a joy. He’s been with me from the very start, and we’ve gone through a lot together. It’s something I’ll always treasure. Seeing him grow on and off the pitch is one of the most rewarding things about coaching. It’s not just about the football; it’s about seeing them develop as people. And it’s not just me – the parents have been fantastic as well. I’ve built friendships with a lot of them over the years, and that makes the whole experience even more enjoyable.
In terms of the future, the plan is to keep the lads together. For the Sunday team, we’ll probably give it one more year, and for the Saturday team, we’ll see how things go. There’s real potential for these lads to progress into senior football. That’s something we’ve been working towards ever since we moved to Coton Green. The idea has always been to give them the opportunity to play at higher levels, and hopefully, some of them will make that step up in the future. It’s not just about the football; it’s about providing them with a pathway to keep developing and aiming higher.
Being part of Coton Green FC has been a fantastic experience for me. The coaches and the staff here are like one big family. It’s amazing how everyone works together, supporting each other. Whether it’s helping with a problem on the pitch or supporting one another in the group chat, there’s always
MATT MINTON ASSISTANT MANAGER & SPONSOR: WINNER RECRUITMENT
My journey with Coton Green FC began after many years at Lichfield City, where I was deeply involved in the club’s development. At Lichfield, I spent 13 years nurturing the junior section, establishing the girls’ teams, managing finances as treasurer, and even running the veterans’ team. My passion has always been about developing young players and creating opportunities for progression.
During COVID, I helped launch an under-21 side at Lichfield, which was meant to bridge younger talent into the first team. However, when Lichfield achieved promotion via points-per-game during the disrupted season, the step up became too significant for many younger players. To continue providing meaningful opportunities, I moved a group of these talented players into men’s football at another Step Seven club, allowing them to gain crucial experience. Through competing at this level, I crossed paths regularly with Nick, the manager at Coton Green FC. We played veterans’ football together and often discussed tactics and players at matches.
someone willing to pitch in. The community involvement is also really important to the club. They’re always looking for ways to get the local people involved, which I think is brilliant.
This year, I’ve also had the pleasure of sponsoring the first team at Coton Green FC, which has been great. I’ve been involved with sponsoring juniors before, but this is the first time I’ve sponsored the senior team. It’s just another way for me to give back to the club and support what they’re doing. The sponsorship has been a rewarding experience, and I hope to continue supporting the team in the future.
Looking back on this journey, I’m proud of what we’ve achieved, both on and off the pitch. Coaching JP and the rest of the lads has been one of the most fulfilling things I’ve done, and I look forward to continuing the journey with Coton Green FC. It’s a great club with great people.
Eventually, Nick invited me to join Coton Green as his assistant manager, marking the start of my current chapter with the club.
This season, my first at Coton Green, was extraordinary. Despite a challenging lead-up where we dropped unexpected points, we rallied when it mattered most. We entered the playoffs as underdogs, facing strong competition from teams like Leicester St Andrews and Crowley. Against the odds, we came from behind, winning the playoff final—a thrilling and unforgettable experience for everyone involved.
Looking ahead, we’re aiming to maintain our strong squad, attract new talent, and secure further sponsorship and community support. It’s vital that we build sustainably, not overly reliant on any single sponsor, but instead engaging broadly with local businesses and our community. This includes deepening our connections with junior sections, ensuring there’s a clear pathway from youth football right up to the first team.
The camaraderie, friendships, and supportive network at Coton Green extend far beyond football. Being part of this club provides invaluable social connections and life experiences, particularly for our younger members transitioning through key stages of life. Our aim is to continue nurturing this environment, growing our community, and driving forward both on and off the pitch.
CHAD MALE MANAGER, COACH & SPONSOR
I’m Chad Male, and I’ve spent the last 25 years coaching football—yet my own playing career was anything but conventional. Scouted into Birmingham City’s academy
under Barry Fry, I made a handful of youth appearances before the love of the game drifted away and I found myself playing professional rugby instead. Even so, I never lost my passion for football, and I’ve been coaching ever since.
Two years ago, I found my home at Coton Green FC. I’d been managing girls’ and ladies’ teams at St John’s in Tamworth when their club secretary retired and the teams were left without a home. Aaron Cartwright and the Coton Green committee welcomed us warmly, and Jade—my long-time cocoach and current ladies’ captain—moved across with me. We inherited an under18s girls’ side we’d been developing since they were under-9s and built a new ladies’ team from scratch. Between us, we’ve guided those original nine-yearolds all the way to senior football, and seeing them mature—first getting heavily beaten every week, then turning the tables to win league titles, league cups, and even a county cup—is one of my proudest coaching achievements.
Working with female players has been a revelation. Unlike boys, who often arrive convinced they’re the next
Messi or Ronaldo, my girls come eager to learn the tactical and psychological side of the game. They welcome instruction, they crave feedback, and they rarely get frustrated hearing my voice at halftime— unlike the men’s sides I sometimes help with, where a shouted swear or a kicked water bottle is par for the course. Learning to manage temperaments, building confidence, and tailoring my approach to each individual has made me a stronger coach and underscored why opening pathways for girls and women in football matters so much.
This season my ladies’ team won the league and league cup in our first year— but it wasn’t without its hurdles. When we stormed through early rounds of the FA Cup—another first for Coton Green—some opposition teams simply refused to show up, cancelling match after match rather than face us. Yet our resilience paid off: we reached the third round and proved what a well-coached, committed group of players can achieve.
Away from Coton
Green, I’m the Operations Manager for UK Football Trials, a company that runs nationwide—and international—trial days for players aged eight up to open age. It’s an extension of my belief that every passionate player deserves a platform to be seen, whether here in the West Midlands, in Canada, Australia, or New York.
What makes Coton Green FC exceptional? It’s the people. Aaron Cartwright, his brother Jamie, and their father Neil form the beating heart of this family-run club. Neil runs the grounds, Aaron handles the admin, Jamie organizes our offfield events—and together they’ve built a culture where volunteers in the kitchen feel as valued as the first-team coaches. Their dedication to youth development, women’s football, disabled football, walking football, and community outreach shows that Coton Green isn’t just a place to play—it’s a place to belong. That sense of family, that commitment to every player who pulls on a Coton Green shirt, is why I’m proud to call this club my home.
BRENTWOOD TOWN FC
“The bond between players and fans is unique and something very special!”
STEVE LINTON PR, MARKETING & COMMUNICATIONS DIRECTOR
My connection with Brentwood Town began in October 2020, during the Covid restrictions on socialising. Football has always dominated my Saturdays, from watching my dad play as a kid to playing myself until injury ended my career at 24. I’ve also held a West Ham United season ticket for over 30 years. With Covid limiting activities, I found myself restless until my wife, eager to get me out of the house, suggested I try watching our local non-league side, Brentwood Town. Initially hesitant, I soon became a regular, forming strong bonds, especially with chairman Jez Dickinson. By the end of the 2022/23
season, Jez outlined ambitious plans, notably aiming for a 3G all-weather pitch by the 2024/25 season.
In June 2023, I joined the club’s exciting new project as PR, Marketing, and Communications Director, supporting this vision.
What an incredible journey this season has been for Brentwood Town FC! After years of near misses, we’ve finally become champions of the Isthmian League North Division for the 2024/25 season.
Following the heartbreak of play-off defeats, most recently against Bowers & Pitsea, our manager Keith Rowland inspired us to transform disappointment into determination. This year, we’ve delivered an outstanding performance, securing 28 victories from 42 matches, scoring an impressive 97
goals, and finishing with 89 points. Our memorable 8–0 victory over Ipswich Wanderers exemplified our attacking strength.
The support from our fans has been phenomenal, with record attendances like the 1,467-strong crowd during our decisive victory against Basildon United. The atmosphere at Brentwood Centre Arena has truly been electric.
This triumph reflects a collective effort—from players, coaches, and management to our dedicated volunteers and loyal supporters. As we now prepare for the challenges of the Isthmian Premier Division, we are filled with optimism and ready to embrace this exciting new chapter. Thank you to everyone who has supported us. Up the Blues! Brentwood Town is a
vibrant community hub, strengthened by the new 3G pitch set to open in August 2024. Our facilities host schools, youth teams, women’s teams, charity matches, and community groups. We regularly organise foodbank collections and recently ran our second Easter Egg campaign supporting Lennox Children’s Cancer Fund and Endeavour Cooperative Academy. Our ‘Proud of our Past and Ready for our Future’ campaign recently celebrated club legends, hosting over 30 former players at a memorable match.
We’re proud of our youth development record. Players like Lee Noble, Andy Freeman, Sam Park, Danny Ogunleye, and recent academy graduate Harry Elsey—who scored against
CLUB HISTORY
Our original club famously reached the FA Cup quarter-finals in 1885-86. The current club, founded in 1954 as Manor Athletic before reclaiming the Brentwood name, achieved Isthmian Premier League status in 2015. Recent playoff finals have kept promotion aspirations alive.
The club atmosphere is buzzing despite narrowly missing promotion last season. Retaining most players, we’ve targeted a league title this season.
Southend United in the FA Trophy—showcase our strength. Ogunleye’s 43 goals in all competitions this season have drawn attention from higher-level clubs.
Notable former players include Lamar Reynolds (Newport County), Elliot Justham (Luton Town, Dag & Red), and former England internationals Jimmy Greaves and Ted Ditchburn. Our current manager is former Northern Ireland international Keith Rowland. We recently enjoyed a friendly supporters’ match against Brightlingsea Regent, highlighting non-league football’s community spirit.
The 2024/25 season saw memorable FA competitions, including a historic FA Trophy run, defeating step 3 clubs and step 2 Hereford at Edgar Street. We hosted nearly 1,500 fans in a thrilling 5-3 loss to local giants Southend
United. A subsequent 16-game unbeaten run significantly boosted our league campaign.
Our new women’s team performed impressively in their debut Essex County Women’s Football League Premier Division season, reaching the Essex Women’s Trophy final against Hutton Women First on April 30th. Our Blues Academy also continues to flourish.
Brentwood Town FC proudly stands as a community-focused club. Our stadium showcases numerous local business partners, and we host regular networking events to foster local business growth. Our enhanced partnership with Matchroom Group and Barry Hearn, including sponsorship extensions and a minority stake by Hearn, underscores our ambition. Additionally, ERB Commercial Risks sponsors our upgraded clubhouse.
We have an incredible fanbase, with attendances up by 40% this season. Our community initiatives, charity partnerships, and inclusive, welcoming environment underline our ethos: a true one-club mentality, united in victory and defeat.
SUPPORTING MENTAL HEALTH AND RECOVERY A MESSAGE FROM JANE BENNETT, MD OF BENNETT’S FUNERAL DIRECTORS
Jane Bennett, Managing Director of Bennett’s Funeral Directors and a dedicated sponsor of Brentwood Town FC, is deeply passionate about supporting charities that provide crucial help to individuals facing mental health challenges and addiction. Through her involvement with the club and her personal commitment to community welfare, Jane has championed awareness and fundraising efforts for vital organisations such as Andy’s Man Club and Gamblers Anonymous.
Two years ago, with tremendous support from Robin Lynn of Brentwood Town Blues Academy, Jane helped spearhead an event that raised significant funds. These donations were split between The Craig Tyler Trust and Andy’s Man Club — charities that make a profound difference in many lives.
Jane believes that highlighting these organisations and their work is not only important but potentially lifesaving. “The work these charities do is incredible. They create safe, supportive spaces where people can share their struggles without fear or stigma,” Jane says. “Bringing attention to their support networks could save lives in our community.”
ANDY’S MAN CLUB: BREAKING THE SILENCE ON MEN’S MENTAL HEALTH www.andysmanclub.co.uk
Andy’s Man Club is a men’s suicide prevention charity dedicated to ending the stigma surrounding men’s mental health through peerto-peer support groups held across the UK and online. Free to attend, these groups meet every Monday at 7 PM (except bank holidays) and provide a safe, judgementfree environment where men can openly discuss the challenges affecting their lives — or simply listen if they prefer.
The club’s ethos is about creating a welcoming space free of pressure, allowing men to feel comfortable opening up about their mental health experiences. The guiding message is clear: #ITSOKAYTOTAL. These groups have become a lifeline for many, fostering connection, understanding, and hope.
GAMBLERS ANONYMOUS: A FELLOWSHIP OF HOPE AND RECOVERY www.gamblersanonymous. org.uk
Gamblers Anonymous offers a fellowship for men and women affected by
compulsive gambling, providing a vital support network to help individuals recover and maintain sobriety. This charity offers literature, resources, and, most importantly, daily meetings across England, Wales, and Ulster—no appointments needed, just turn up.
Recognising the impact of football betting, especially on teenagers involved in fantasy football, Gamblers Anonymous addresses this growing issue head-on. The organization’s meetings foster a community where shared experience and mutual support empower members to overcome their addiction.
Notably, public figures like former footballer Dean Sturridge have openly discussed their struggles with gambling and their involvement with Gamblers Anonymous, helping to destigmatise the issue further.
Jane Bennett’s ongoing support of these charities alongside her sponsorship of Brentwood Town FC highlights how sport and community can join forces to promote mental health awareness and addiction recovery. For anyone struggling or seeking help, reaching out to these organisations could be the first step towards hope and healing.
Congratulations Brentwood Town FC!
SUPPORTER & SPONSOR: BEFIBRE
We are delighted to support grassroots football and proud to sponsor Brentwood FC. As part of our commitment to the local community, we were thrilled to feature our logo on a pitch board at the club—especially following their exciting upgrade to a high-quality 3G surface.
Our partnership with Brentwood FC reflects our passion for local sports and our dedication to helping clubs grow. A huge thank you to Keith Woodcock for his invaluable support in connecting us with opportunities in Brentwood. His passion for his community is truly inspiring!
NATALIE FOWLER
At ERB Commercial Insurance, we pride ourselves on being more than just a commercial insurance broker—we’re a communityfocused, family-run business with deep roots in Essex. Founded and owned by Lee and Kathryn Banks, ERB takes its name from their first-born daughter, Elodie Rose Banks, a testament to our strong family values and personal approach.
Since relocating from Emerson Park to Brentwood in August 2020, amid the COVID-19 pandemic, it became even more essential for us to raise our local profile and strengthen our brand visibility. Given that a large proportion of our clients are Essex-based, partnering with Brentwood Town Football Club was a natural alignment.
Over the past few years our involvement with the club has steadily grown. In 2024, we proudly secured naming rights for both the main stand and the newly branded ERB Insurance Club Lounge, reflecting our commitment to supporting grassroots football and the broader community. Our engagement extends year-round, including active support for the club’s charitable initiatives and local outreach efforts.
Many of our team members are regulars at the Brentwood Centre Arena, particularly Steve Chilton and Lee Banks, who spearhead our footballrelated initiatives. We frequently host ERB events in conjunction with matchdays, inviting clients and supplier partners to enjoy the matchday experience and the upgraded facilities. The welcoming, family-friendly atmosphere at Brentwood Town FC resonates perfectly with our company culture and is greatly appreciated by our guests—so much so that there’s often a waiting list for our matchday events!
On the pitch this season has been a thrilling ride. After a mid-season dip, the team rallied to deliver an outstanding performance, ultimately being crowned Isthmian North Division One champions. This success has invigorated the community
and sparked new excitement around the club.
But what truly makes Brentwood Town FC special is its people. From passionate long-time supporters to the dedicated volunteers, to Jez Dickson and the management team, the collective spirit and shared ambition are unmistakable. Regular collaboration and open dialogue ensure the club keeps evolving in ways that benefit both the fans and the local community.
At ERB, we’re proud to be part of this journey and look forward to continuing our support as Brentwood Town FC builds on its momentum and heads into a bright future.
Lee Banks (MD of ERB), Barry Hearn (Matchroom), Jez Dickson (Owner of Brentwood FC), Steve Chilton (Account Director of ERB).
MARTIN WILLOUGHBY, SUPPORTER & SPONSOR: MOVEWORKS
Originally from Colchester, and after some time in East London, I’ve now been back in Essex—and in Brentwood— for the past 15 years. My connection with Brentwood Town FC began around ten years ago through a chat with a group of fellow local West Ham season ticket holders. When West Ham were away, we’d take the short half-mile walk down to the Brentwood Centre Arena to support the Blues.
Since then, it’s been a really enjoyable journey. I now typically attend about a third of the home games each season, plus throw in a couple of away trips. This past season has been particularly fantastic—not just for the exciting, entertaining football, some big games with great crowds, but more so for the people, spirit, and culture that now surrounds the club.
There’s a real sense of positivity and growing community involvement. The installation of the new 3G pitch has made a big difference, bringing in more kids and locals to the club throughout the week. There’s always something happening—kids’ football, training sessions, business networking breakfasts—and that buzz around the club is brilliant. It’s becoming a true focal point in the community.
I’ve also been impressed by the growth of the club’s
commercial side, which I believe is in no small part due to the involvement of John Schultz and his team. I’ve known John since the 1980s, when he and my dad worked together on family, community and youth football projects at Colchester United. His experience, passion, and business know-how have clearly significantly benefited Brentwood and you can certainly see the positive direction they’re heading in.
As the owner of Moveworks, a Brentwoodbased workplace consultancy, we’re proud to have supported the club in our little way over the last few years with some advertising boards at the ground. We mainly work across Essex, Hertfordshire, and London— but being based right here in Brentwood, it’s been a pleasure to be part of the club’s journey. As a growing business, we also like to think our path mirrors that of BTFC.
What makes Brentwood Town FC special to me are the people and the strong sense of community. Matchdays for me are often centred around the bar and clubhouse—now refurbished and extended— with Brentwood Lager on tap and the chance to chat with players after the game. It all adds up to a fantastic day out, completely different from the often frustrating, overpriced, and overly commercial Premier League experience.
Chairman Jez is clearly a
fan at heart—his passion and investment in the club are obvious. Alongside John and their brilliant team, they’ve created something really
special: a successful team on the pitch, and a vibrant, welcoming community off it. It’s a pleasure to be part of the journey.
We are a workplace consultancy that delivers space reduction, fit out and office relocation projects
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• space efficiencies
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0800 433 7444
“A wholesome club with no skeletons in its closet!”
HASSOCKS FOOTBALL
CLUB HISTORY
We were founded in 1902 and spent the first 80 years of its existence competing in the Mid Sussex Football League and Brighton and Hove and District Football League, playing at Adastra Park in the middle of the village.
The Robins first piece of silverware came when lifting the Mid Sussex League’s prestigious Mowatt Cup in 1928. In 1960, they added the showpiece trophy of the Montgomery Cup to their honours list.
It was a move to the Brighton & Hove League in the mid 1960s that really started to get Hassocks noticed. The Robins won promotion from Division Three to Division One in backto-back seasons in 1965 and 1966, eventually lifting the Brighton League title in 1972 after finishing runners up the previous year.
The Sussex Intermediate Cup was added in 1975 to complete a golden era for Hassocks. Ambitions of senior football were finally realised for 1981-82 when the club became members of Division One of the Southern Combination Football League.
They finished that first season in 12th place and consolidated their hard earned senior status with a succession of top half placings in the division, until a change in ground grading rules saw them demoted into Division Two and a return to intermediate football.
After several seasons of treading water, 1991 saw huge changes. Former player and
HASSOCKS FC Southern Combination League Premier Division Champions 2024-2025!
manager Jim Goodrum took over as chairman, Dave John arrived as general manager from Haywards Heath Town and a new coaching team of Nick Greenwood and Peter Liddell took over first team affairs with a massive influx of players.
Results were immediate. Greenwood and Liddell led Hassocks to the 1991-92 Division Two title by 10 points in their first season at the helm. More importantly, the progress on the pitch was matched off it with the club finally leaving Adastra Park to move into its own purpose built ground at The Beacon.
The improved facilities which members had spent many years working to secure and build enabled promotion to Division One and a return to senior football.
Just three years later and Greenwood and Liddell took Hassocks into the Premier Division of the Southern Combination League for the first time as runners up in Division One. Having remained in the Premier Division ever since, the Robins are currently the division’s longest serving club.
Floodlights now had to be provided at the Beacon. They came through fundraising and a generous donation from Chelsea vice-chairman and friend of the Robins, Matthew Harding.
Mr Harding lived locally and whose sons Pat and Joel would all go onto represent the club. The floodlights were officially opened when a Chelsea XI featuring Graham Rix and Liam Brady made the journey to the Beacon.
The 1995-96 season saw
Hassocks make their debut in the FA Vase. A year later and the Robins entered the FA Cup. Their best run in the world’s greatest cup competition came under the management of John, who led Hassocks all the way to the third qualifying round in 2001-02.
Their adventure was finally ended by Lewes, who themselves enjoyed a memorable year in the FA Cup by advancing to the first round proper and a meeting with Stoke City.
2002 saw Hassocks mark their centenary by facing an ex-Arsenal and Celebrity XI. Later in the year and Steve Coppell took charge of Brighton and Hove Albion for the first time when the Seagulls visited the Beacon to open the new 237-seater Maurice Boxall Stand, funded in part by the previous season’s FA Cup run.
In 2007, the ground was improved further with the opening of a new clubhouse after a long fundraising and building process. The Beacon has regularly held Southern Combination League cup finals ever since, highlighting the excellent facilities at the ground.
The 2011-12 season saw Mickey Jewell lead Hassocks to their highest ever finish of fourth in the Premier Division. A memorable campaign also saw the Robins reach the semi final of the RUR Cup.
Jewell stepped down at the end of the 2013-14 season, replaced by club legend John returning for a brief third spell at the helm alongside his duties as chairman. John was followed by Mark Dalgleish and Phil Wickwar, who produced a great escape from relegation in the second half of the 2014-15 season.
Dalgleish and Wickwar continued to do well under
difficult circumstances, defying the odds to avoid the drop despite being one of the only sides in the Premier Division not to pay their players.
The Robins’ proud run of never finishing in the bottom three of the top flight came to an end at the conclusion of the 2017-18 season, although they were spared relegation as only two sides went down.
Wickwar stood down at the end of the campaign, leaving Dalgleish in sole charge for 2018-19. Hassocks were in the Premier Division’s bottom two when Covid-19 brought the 2019-20 season to a premature end, leading to Dalgleish’s departure after a decade at the Beacon.
John was back in charge for the 2020-21 season which again was curtailed due to the pandemic. John moved upstairs to become technical director ahead of the 2021-22 campaign, with Brad Sweetman stepping up to become first team head coach from his role as Under 18s manager.
Sweetman had been part of John’s management team that led the Under 18s to an historic treble in 201718, following that up with a succession of runners up finishes when left in sole charge of the Young Robins.
Now, he and the players he had brought through the youth system and into the first team over the past five seasons had the opportunity to prove themselves at senior level.
A difficult first half of the season in which relegation looked a distinct possibility gave way to a much improved second half. Hassocks ended the campaign in 16th spot and reached the semi finals of the RUR Cup for the first time in a decade.
Sweetman was replaced at the end of the season by fan favourite player James Westlake. His rebuilt squad made up of new faces and former favourites lured back to the Beacon finished 10th in 2022-23, securing the club’s first top half placing in nine years.
Better was to come in 2023-24. Hassocks acquired a club-record 78 points to finish fifth in the table, qualifying for the promotion playoffs for the first time. The Robins were eliminated by eventual winners Eastbourne Town.
John retired as chairman at the end of the season, ending over 33 years of day-to-day involvement in running the Robins. The club appointed John president in honour of his service and the Clubhouse bar at the Beacon was renamed the Dave John Lounge.
His final gift was the appointment of his successor. The second-highest goal scorer in Hassocks history, Pat Harding, stepped straight from retirement as a player into the role of chairman, bringing ambitious new ideas to continue the Robins’ progress on and off the pitch.
PATRICK HARDING CHAIRMAN
I have deep roots in this village, having played for Hassocks juniors from under 9’s through to under 16’s. I continued my journey in the senior setup, starting with the under 18’s, then progressing through the reserves (as they were known back in the day), and finally, the first team until I was 22. After pursuing higher levels elsewhere in my prime, I returned to Hassocks at age 38 for a final playing stint before retiring.
I’ve now taken on the role of Chairman, steering the club through its latest chapter.
Like any non-league club, financial challenges have been a constant. Thanks to prudent planning from past leadership, notably from club stalwart Dave John, now our president, we’ve steadily grown our resources over the years. On the pitch, our team has had a remarkable season under the guidance of our excellent manager, James Westlake, securing promotion to the next level. Off the field, we’re playing catch-up but making strides towards fulfilling our potential.
Hassocks FC is ambitious both competitively and in community engagement. On the pitch, we aim to establish ourselves in the Isthmian South East and maintain a regular presence at this level.
Off the pitch, I’ve focused on enhancing revenue through energy-saving initiatives like LED lighting and solar panels. We’re also exploring opportunities, like a dedicated grass training pitch, albeit restricted by local regulations.
This season marks a historic milestone for Hassocks, achieving our first major silverware with promotion to the Isthmian South East, the highest level in our club’s history. The atmosphere here is electric, filled with celebrations and anticipation for upcoming cup finals across various age groups.
Beyond the men’s teams, our ladies’ team is thriving, reflecting the growing interest in women’s football locally. We’re committed to nurturing talent from girls’ teams through to the senior women’s side, ensuring a robust pathway for female players.
At our core, Hassocks FC is a community hub, drawing unparalleled support from our village. Our local pub sponsors our ground, where players and fans gather post-match to socialize. We’re active on social media and local publications, engaging the community and welcoming fans of all ages to enjoy matchday experiences that cater to families.
Sponsors are vital to our success, and I’m focused on expanding our support base ahead of the next season. Hassocks FC embodies a wholesome community spirit with a professional edge within our financial means. Whether families enjoying our grass banks and mini-goals or fans indulging in matchday treats, we strive to offer a welcoming and memorable experience. Our excellent parking facilities are just another reason why Hassocks FC stands out in non-league football.
EVESHAM UNITED FC
Flying High in Southern League Division One South!
GED BEARCROFT CHAIRMAN
“We love our club because it provides a safe environment where people can meet, socialise, and have fun. We have tremendous staff and volunteers who we treasure deeply.”
I first became involved with Evesham United over 15 years ago when my youngest son, Jamie, was playing junior football. Initially, I was just there to watch but soon found myself helping with coaching and eventually managing his team. However, once Jamie stopped playing football, turning his attention instead to supporting our beloved Aston Villa, my involvement with the club faded.
A good friend of mine, Chris Wright, later became club chairman and asked me to join him as vice-chairman. After careful consideration, I accepted his offer in 2022. Chris has since left the club, and I’ve stepped up as chairman—this is my first full season in the role. Although it hasn’t been the smoothest journey, it’s been thoroughly enjoyable.
Our main challenge, like most non-league football clubs, is finances. We must live within our means, and with average crowds of around 300, the wage bill can be daunting. Nevertheless, our supporters expect us to compete strongly for league titles and cup successes.
We’ve recently launched a football foundation aimed at securing funding for future development of our ground and the 11 pitches we rent from the local council. These pitches serve our junior, ladies, pan-disability, and mini-teams.
The mood around the club is currently very positive, as we’ve just reached the top of the league table for the first time this season, ahead on goal difference, with three games left to play. Our FA Cup run ended in the first preliminary round after a replay against Newcastle Town, while in the FA Trophy, we progressed to the second
preliminary round before narrowly losing on penalties to Bristol Manor Farm.
We pride ourselves on being a strong community club. In addition to our 300plus junior members, we have girls’ and ladies’ teams, pandisability teams across all age groups, walking football, and an academy that’s entering its fourth successful year. We also host community groups such as Weight Watchers, speed awareness sessions, and bingo.
Our wonderful clubhouse, managed by our incredible staff, regularly hosts weddings, birthday parties, corporate events, and wakes. Visits from local biker groups are always a spectacle worth seeing.
We’ve recently formed a social committee that coordinates closely with our executive and main committees. This group organises various events, including race nights and music evenings, and is currently planning our first-ever Family Fun Day on Saturday, May 24th, designed to encourage new visitors to experience what we have to offer.
We highly value our sponsors and always strive to provide them with a fantastic matchday experience. Of course, we’re continuously seeking new sponsorship opportunities. If any American billionaires happen to be reading this and would like to invest in our wonderful club, please don’t hesitate to get in touch!
Ultimately, we love our club because it provides a welcoming and safe environment where people can enjoy themselves, build friendships, and create lasting memories. Our dedicated staff and volunteers are the heartbeat of Evesham United, and we cherish each and every one of them.
CLUB HISTORY
The Evesham United Football Club that we know today dates from just after the Second World War when soldiers returning from action reformed the club and immediately joined the Worcestershire League.
However, a club did exist in Evesham prior to the War, the “Town” reaching the F.A. Amateur Cup Final in 1923, losing 1 – 2 after extra time to London Caledonians at Crystal Palace.
Starting in the 1951/52 season, in the club’s first five years in the Worcestershire Combination they were League Champions twice and runnersup on two occasions, their lowest position being third in that first season.
In 1956 they left to join the Birmingham League and followed this with a move to the Warwickshire League in 1959 before returning to the Worcester (now Midland Combination) in 1963. They won the league title four times (1965/66, 1967/68, 1968/69, and 1991/92) and reached the Challenge Cup Final on six occasions, lifting the trophy in 1988 and 1992.
Initially the club played at Crown Meadow, moving to Common Road in 1968 and opening the clubhouse in 1975.
A terrific season in 1991/92 saw the club complete a memorable double of Midland Combination Premier Division Champions, thus achieving promotion to the Southern League Midlands Division, and the Combination Challenge Cup. They also reached the quarter final of the F.A. Vase before losing to eventual finalists Guiseley. Some £5,000.00 was spent on the ground and they marked their first season in the Southern League by finishing in a creditable 15th position.
A number of Managers and poor seasons followed but in November 2003, former Coventry City defender, Davis Busst, was appointed a successor to Phil Mullen. Busst took over a club struggling near the foot of the Dr. Martens League Western Division but managed to turn things around and Evesham eventually finished mid-table with a
Chairman Ged Bearcroft (left) and Micky Brennan vice chairman Evesham United football club.
creditable 50 points.
The 2004/05 campaign saw Evesham take their place in the Southern League Division One West, with Busst in his first full season in charge with the experienced Paul West as his assistant. It turned out to be a season to remember for Evesham’s long-suffering fans with the Robins earning a place in the play-offs.
A tense 2 – 1 victory against Ashford Town (Middlesex) paired Evesham with local rivals Bromsgrove Rovers in the playoff final. A crowd of over 800 squeezed into Common Road to witness Evesham romp to a 4 – 0 win and promotion to the Southern League Premier Division for the first time in their history.
After a poor run of results, Busst left in February 2006 and West stepped up to take over. Despite a marked improvement, Evesham were relegated on the final day of the season, finishing just one point behind Northwood.
After selling their Common Road ground for housing Evesham entered into a ground share agreement with Worcester City whilst moves were being put in place to build a new stadium on the southern outskirts of Evesham.
In 2006/07, the club took a step in the right direction with former Wigan, Bradford and Port Vale defender, West, again at the helm. Evesham lifted the Worcestershire Senior Cup for the first time, beating Stourbridge 2 – 1 in the final. The play-offs were also reached but unfortunately a late goal ensured Bromsgrove a narrow 1 – 0 win and eventual promotion.
Season 2007/08 turned out to be one of the most memorable in the club’s history. The club took Blue Square Premier Halifax Town to a replay in the 4th Qualifying Round of the F.A. Cup before losing 2 – 1 at the Shay. In the Carlsberg Trophy, West’s side beat higher graded Bromsgrove Rovers and Corby Town en route to the 3rd Qualifying Round, before going out at Blue Square North Redditch United after a replay.
However, it was Evesham’s league form that caught the imagination. Despite suffering three defeats in the opening six games. Evesham put together a remarkable run of results and stormed to the top of the British Gas Midlands Division. Only two more reversals followed in 34 league games and West’s side clinched the Championship ahead of Leamington with a game to spare. A massive 91 points were bagged, and a staggering 22 clean sheets kept in 40
games with the experienced Mark Owen topping the clubs scoring charts with 33 goals, including two hat-tricks.
2008/09 saw Evesham back in the Premier Division and finishing in a creditable 9th position. They reached the 1st Round Proper of the F.A. Cup for the first time in their history before bowing out to Torquay United at Plainmoor and completed a second Worcestershire Senior Cup win in three seasons when defeating Kidderminster Harriers in the final.
2009/10 was a season of struggles as the Robins finished in 16th place. After being just outside the play-offs when the bad weather disrupted the season, a disastrous run of only 2 wins in the last 25 games saw them in freefall, before they finally made sure of staying in the division with a point at home to Bedford Town with three games left to play.
2010/11 was again a season of contrasting fortunes with the club in the drop zone at Christmas and staring relegation in the face. However, some shrewd signings saw the club enjoy a tremendous run of form and climb the table to finish in a respectable 12th spot and beating play-off hopefuls Hednesford Town and runnersup Salisbury City.
After five and a half years at the helm Manager Paul West and his brother and Assistant Manager Leon West called time on one of the most successful periods in the club’s history. Matt Clarke was appointed as the new Manager at the end of November 2011 and joining him as his assistant was Rob Elmes together with UEFA B qualified Coach Kieran Jackson.
Season 2011/12 was a disappointment with the club being relegated from the EvoStik Southern Premier Division and after spending six years ground sharing at Worcester City Football Club the Robins began the 2012/13 season in Division One South & West at their new Spiers & Hartwell Jubilee Stadium.
A mediocre start to the 2012/13 season saw Matt Clarke and Rob Elmes resign from their positions with Paul West returning to see the team through to the end of the season.
West departed in early May 2013 and was replaced by former West Bromwich Albion and Sunderland midfielder Shaun Cunnington. The experienced Cunnington managed previously at Willenhall Town, Alvechurch and Halesowen Town. The squad was re-vamped with high hopes for a successful 2013/14 campaign. However,
after a series of poor results Cunnington resigned his position at the end of October with former Bishops Cleeve manager Paul Collicutt taking over as the new permanent boss.
Season 2013/14 was a disappointing one for the Robins who finished 16th in the South & West Division.
Season 2014/15 will be remembered as one of success and heartache for the club. The Robins enjoyed an excellent run in the FA Cup before bowing out to Conference South side Bromley in the Fourth Qualifying Round after beating higher graded Redditch United and Histon on the way. Following the FA Cup exit a remarkable run of form resulted in just one defeat in 28 league games and a secondplace finish in the South & West Division behind Champion Merthyr Town. However, despite home advantage in the play-offs Evesham suffered a disappointing defeat against Larkhall Athletic.
Season 2015/16 was another successful one for United who finished just two points short of the play-offs. Due to Cinderford’s refusal to accept promotion at the end of last season, United were originally placed in the Evo-Stik Northern League, but after a successful appeal were re-instated in the Southern League South & West Division.
The 2016/17 campaign saw the Robins reach the South and West play-offs for a second time in three years but were narrowly beaten by Salisbury in a classic semi-final 2-1 after extra time, playing for 90 minutes with ten men.
In 2017/18 the club did not have a brilliant start to the season in either the league or in the cup competitions, losing to Newcastle Town in the FA Cup Preliminary Round replay and a first-round defeat at home in The FA Trophy to Cirencester Town saw more cup misery. In the league victories were hard to come by winning just 8 of the first 18 games of the season. With mid-season form looking reasonable it was
starting to look like being a mediocre season until United put together a fantastic late season run, winning 9 out of the last 12 league games. The play-off semi-final had an air of Déjà vu about it, with the scores between ‘The Robins’ & Swindon Supermarine being all level after 120 minutes, it was another season of not to be as Supermarine who eventually won the play-offs pushing Evesham aside 5-4 on penalties.
The 2018/19 season was not one of Evesham’s finest, eventually finishing seventh with Collicutt relieved of his duties and Carl Abbott taking over for the 2019/20 campaign. Ultimately this season was curtailed by the Covid pandemic with Evesham in ninth position. Abbott left the club in March 2020 with Neil Hunt taking over the manager position in a caretaker capacity. Hunt was made permanent manager in the summer in readiness for the 2020-21 season.
Hunt was made permanent manager for the 2020-21 season. The league season was curtailed on November 4th due to the pandemic, with only six league games played. However, Evesham’s season made it to December, due to a run to the Second Round Proper of the FA Trophy, before losing 3-0 at home to National League North Boston United.
In 2021-22, the Robins earned 39 points from 36 games and only secured a disappointing 13th place in the table.
The experienced Mike Ford took over for the 202223 campaign. A superb four match winning run at the end of the season, saw the Robins make fourth position in the table and a place in the playoffs. However Evesham lost 3-0 to Hamworthy United at Dorchester Town’s ground.
The 2023/24 season Evesham had a difficult start to the season, but Evesham picked up momentum and finished the season is seventh position just outside the playoffs on 51 points.
CLUB SECRETARY
Evesham United FC has always held deep roots within the local community, growing naturally from a shared passion for football. For many involved today—players, coaches, volunteers, and parents— their connection began by either playing as youngsters or bringing their children to join our youth teams. Over the years, involvement has evolved through coaching roles, volunteering, and actively supporting the broader development of the club. Evesham United is far more than just a football club—it’s a community cornerstone where people grow and thrive together.
Navigating the club to its current position hasn’t been without challenges. Maintaining momentum both on and off the pitch has demanded resourcefulness, especially when managing facilities, funding, volunteer availability, and player retention, all while staying competitive. The pandemic presented additional hurdles, disrupting development, particularly for our youth teams. Yet, the community spirit, determination, and passion of everyone behind the scenes have allowed us to establish a sustainable structure supporting long-term growth.
Our ambitions on the pitch remain clear: we aim to propel our senior men’s team further up the non-league pyramid while nurturing a robust and sustainable youth setup. We’re passionate about seeing more homegrown talent progress into senior football. Off the pitch, we’re investing significantly in facility improvements, expanding community engagement, and supporting essential initiatives such as disability football and mental health awareness in sport. Recent developments, including enhanced use of our 3G pitch and growth in our girls’ and disability football sections, underline our
ongoing commitment. The Evesham United Colts, part of our vibrant youth section, have flourished remarkably, offering hundreds of local children a safe, structured environment to enjoy football.
At Evesham United, we hold a consistent coaching philosophy across all levels—centered around player development, enjoyment, and inclusivity. At youth levels, the emphasis is placed on learning, resilience, respect, and long-term development rather than shortterm outcomes. Senior football highlights competitiveness, tactical awareness, and team cohesion, always underpinned by principles of fair play and mutual respect. Across all age groups, our goal is for players to love football and to develop not just as athletes but also as individuals.
The current atmosphere at the club is incredibly positive. There’s an evident excitement, from the first team’s gripping league campaign to the thriving youth sides and growing participation in women’s and inclusive football. This season, the first team is particularly strong, sitting at the top of the league on goal difference in a tight promotion race. Every match carries the intensity of a cup final, igniting passion among players, staff, and supporters alike. Our youth teams have also performed commendably in league and cup competitions, marking numerous memorable achievements for players and coaches.
Women’s and girls’ football is rapidly becoming an integral part of our club. We have actively expanded our girls’ teams, nurturing increasing interest. Our objective is to create a comprehensive pathway from junior girls’ football to senior women’s teams, fostering an environment where girls feel inspired and equally valued.
Inclusivity remains a core value at Evesham United. Our flourishing pan-disability football programmes offer both junior and adult teams
MICKY BRENNAN VICE CHAIRMAN
I have been associated with the club, on and off, for 40 years—initially as a player at age 27, then as a playermanager at 28. I’ve also managed the club on three other occasions.
We’ve enjoyed success in the past, winning league titles that promoted us to the Southern League, but we’ve also experienced relegations—the typical ups
regular opportunities in Ability Counts competitions. We proudly serve as a hub club for disability football, exemplified by our head coach, who also serves as the Worcestershire Disability Ambassador. Additionally, our popular walking football programme encourages older adults to remain active, social, and engaged with the sport they love. Our facilities proudly host the England Walking Football Team, alongside various national teams for training and fixtures, adding excitement and diversity to the club.
Evesham United is unequivocally a community club, deeply embedded in the town’s social fabric. From youth programmes and pan-disability teams to school holiday camps and charity events, we strive to connect meaningfully with the local community. We maintain robust partnerships with local schools and businesses, fostering mutual support and growth. Our sponsors are invaluable, offering crucial financial support for essential
and downs associated with non-league football.
Currently, my main focus is ensuring the club’s sustainability and looking after all our teams, from the first team down to our junior squads. Additionally, I’m involved in raising sponsorship funds. Businesses like Spires and Hartwell, a local haulage company, have supported the club for many years, something for which we are extremely grateful.
club activities. However, their involvement transcends finances, as their shared sense of pride and commitment enhances our community connections.
Ultimately, what makes Evesham United such a special club are the people involved. From dedicated volunteers and proud players to the supportive families who gather weekly, our club thrives on genuine community spirit. At Evesham United, ambition and community harmony coexist seamlessly, offering a welcoming environment for everyone, young and old.
Lastly, a heartfelt thank you to everyone—past and present—who has contributed to our journey. Whether as players, coaches, volunteers, sponsors, or loyal supporters, your dedication has shaped our identity. We’ve achieved much together and, with continued community support, we firmly believe our best days lie ahead.
DORKING WANDERERS FC
“We Don’t Do Flannel We Just Get On With It”
JONATHAN BINES CHIEF EXECUTIVE
I’ve always been obsessed with football. Growing up in Swansea, I thought I’d be better than I was on the pitch. But one way or another, I always knew I’d be involved in the game. You have to love it—really love it—to want to be in football, especially in the roles that don’t come with the glamour. It’s a calling more than a job, and it doesn’t pay well unless you’re on the pitch. That’s the reality.
Coming into Dorking Wanderers just over a year ago, I quickly realised this place isn’t your average football club. It’s built differently. And it’s run differently. There’s no hiding, no fluff. It’s ambitious, unapologetically so, and that comes from the top.
Marc White, the founder, chairman, and manager, started the club in 1999 with a group of mates. Since then, Dorking have racked up 12 promotions in 24 years. That kind of rise isn’t normal. You don’t do that without total belief and drive. You also don’t do it unless you’re willing to outwork everyone around you. That’s what makes Marc unique— and what makes working alongside him such a brilliant and mad experience in equal measure.
Our relationship is based on trust. That’s the key. We’re different personalities—he moves at 100mph and wants to get everything done now. I’m probably the breath between the decisions. But we’re aligned. We talk constantly—20, 30 voice
notes a day—and we’re in step because we care deeply about the club and about getting things right. No one here is just a passenger. We don’t do flannel. We don’t play it safe.
When I came in full-time in October, we knew we had to get a grip of all aspects of the club. So we restructured. We built clearer business units— football, F&B, commercial, media—so there’s a focus across everything. That includes the academy and the youth set-up, which now has 500+ kids involved. We’re building it to be Cat 3-ready, because that’s what a League
Two club would need. That’s the ambition. That’s the goal. And we let that goal drive every decision.
We’re not trying to survive in the National League. We’re not hanging around. We’re trying to get to League Two. Two promotions. That’s all. It’s clear, it’s measurable, and it’s realistic—just hard. But that ambition underpins how we operate every day, from how we train to how we travel to how we build our brand.
People often comment on the club’s authenticity. It’s probably the word we hear most. It’s not something you can fake. I think that’s why people connect with us—locally and beyond. Our fanbase is strange in the best possible way. They turn up everywhere—home and away—and we’ve got a growing number of followers from all over the country and even abroad. There’s something about this club that attracts people who care about the real side of football.
Social media’s been a big part of our story. We didn’t set out to build a brand. We just were who we
were. Marc being Marc, the docuseries, the realness of it all—it resonated. We had 420 million views on our channels last year and barely knew it. That’s what we’re building from now. We’ve just signed our first major principal partner, OLBG, and they’ve been brilliant—top people who get what we’re about.
But this club doesn’t work without its people. From volunteers and coaches to the fans who turn up in the rain, they’re everything. I remind myself every day: this whole thing doesn’t exist without them. That’s what gets you out of bed and drives you to go the extra mile—even when it’s exhausting.
Marc and I are different, but we share a core belief: don’t be a passenger in life. Be something. Make a contribution. That’s the culture we’re fostering at Dorking. Straight-talking. No ego. No flannel. Just people giving a shit about the same thing.
We’re not perfect, and we’re not trying to be polished. We’re just trying to do everything better today than we did yesterday.
And most importantly, we’re not finished yet.
JORDAN CLARK DIRECTOR OF FOOTBALL & EDUCATION
I’m originally from South London, Bromley area — a proper South London boy through and through. I now live in Surrey, in a place called Ingham, where I’ve been settled for about seven or eight years.
Growing up, I wasn’t exactly your typical footballer from a young age. I came to the game a little late, around 9 or 10 years old. My dad was really into rugby, so football wasn’t initially part of the
family DNA. But once I found the game, I quickly fell in love with it. My uncle helped me get started, and from there, I knew football was going to be a big part of my life.
My path wasn’t straightforward. I played semi-pro in England and even had a stint playing in the States while I was getting my degree in sport and exercise science. Alongside that, I earned my coaching badges, which prepared me for the role I have now.
I stumbled into Dorking Wanderers around 2016. It was a bit of a twist of fate, really — I was working with a colleague who was my manager at another club, and he had an opportunity here. When that didn’t work out for him, I stepped in, and I’ve been here ever since, almost ten years now.
What drives me is a belief that football is about more than just results on the pitch. It’s about the individual — helping people become the best versions of themselves, not just as players but as human beings. That’s the philosophy behind our academy. I’ve worked with over 400 young people, and the biggest success isn’t necessarily who turns pro — it’s who grows as a person, develops life skills, and finds their path, whether inside or outside of football.
The school system today often doesn’t challenge young people enough. Mediocrity can be accepted too easily, and I want to change that in my academy. We push for accountability — but positively. Being accountable means owning your mistakes and your successes. It means having those difficult conversations
and learning to manage yourself and others. I encourage the lads to be comfortable being uncomfortable — that’s how you grow.
I’m 32 now, but I vividly remember how hard it was at 16 or 17 — seeing friends leave for jobs, facing questions about what you’re going to do with your life. It’s daunting. So I try to create a space where the lads can open up, talk about their fears, and find solutions. It’s okay to be in a weak spot sometimes. Learning how to get out of that is the real challenge.
I see my role as being more than just a coach or director. For some of these kids, I’m a mentor or even a parent figure because they don’t have that at home. That responsibility is huge — I know because I have two boys of my own, 8 and 4 years old. The care and attention I give my own kids reflect how seriously I take this work. Many of these lads spend more time with me and the academy staff than their own parents. That demands the highest level of respect and care.
Working closely with the senior men’s team, I’ve seen how football clubs are really the heart of their communities. At Dorking Wanderers, that connection is everything. We’re not run by some wealthy benefactor throwing money at the club. We thrive because of our community — the local fans, businesses, schools. As we climb the leagues, maintaining that intimate bond is a priority.
There will be challenges as we grow. The higher you go, the more professional and commercial the game becomes. Players become celebrities, and that community feel can change. But we’re conscious of that, and we carefully choose players who align with our values. Our manager Mark has a great eye for character — players like Tony Craig, who’ve been full-time pros but still embody our club’s spirit.
There’s a healthy pressure here — every year there’s a new “first” for us. We’ve achieved a lot in 25 years, but there’s so much more out there to chase. That’s what keeps us pushing forward.
For me, football is a vehicle to change lives. The academy isn’t just about football; it’s about education, personal development, and preparing young people for whatever life throws at them. That’s why I do this job 24/7. It’s not easy, but seeing these young people grow into responsible, confident adults is incredibly rewarding.
PAUL CONVEY SUPPORTER, SHAREHOLDER
& SPONSOR: TAVERNS TO GO
I grew up in County Mayo, Ireland, and after moving to New Jersey about 10 years ago, I’ve been living and working in the US—running my company, Taverns To Go. We specialize in custom-built outdoor bars, fully assembled and delivered across America. Our bars are designed for quick installation—just 90 minutes—and we’ve built a great reputation for quality craftsmanship and customer satisfaction.
My relationship with Dorking Wanderers FC began when I stumbled across their story online. Mark White’s charisma, combined with the genuine grassroots energy of the club, really drew me in. After watching their YouTube documentary series, I reached out around July or
August of last year, expressing my interest in supporting them both as a shareholder and a sponsor. Mark, Chris, and the entire team welcomed me warmly, and soon I found myself deeply involved in the club.
In September, I travelled to England for my first match at Meadowbank, meeting everyone in person. That visit cemented a strong bond that has continued to grow. One of our early highlights was organising a ‘Dorking Night’ at a pub in New York City, connecting new American fans with Mark and the club leadership. It felt like the beginning of something truly special bringing the Dorking Wanderers spirit across the Atlantic.
We’re now gearing up to launch Taverns To Go in the UK, and Dorking Wanderers have been integral to this journey. We’re excited to be sponsoring the shorts on the club’s replica kits for the
2025/26 season. Fans visiting Meadowbank Stadium will soon see one of our bars displayed, showcasing exactly what Taverns To Go brings to the table.
What truly makes Dorking Wanderers FC special is the people. From Mark’s authenticity and passion to the welcoming atmosphere created by the players, staff, and supporters—it’s all about community. Over the past year, my relationship with the club has grown beyond mere sponsorship into genuine friendship. It feels like family now, and together, we’re expanding the club’s international presence.
Launching Taverns To Go in the UK later this summer marks an exciting new chapter. My hope is that we can continue to grow alongside Dorking, celebrating football, community spirit, and friendship—from New Jersey all the way to Meadowbank Stadium.
GREG WHEELER
LONG-STANDING
SUPPORTER & SPONSOR:
OWNER AT STATION
VIEW GARAGE
Yes, I am proud sponsor and supporter of Dorking Wanderers FC. Born and bred in Dorking, my connection to the club grew stronger around 2017. Initially, with my children actively involved in local grassroots football, we supported smaller clubs and community sports events. Our early interactions with Dorking Wanderers involved small sponsorships and fundraising activities.
What truly impressed me about the club, especially in recent years, is how professionally they operate despite limited financial resources. The acceleration of their progress, particularly in the last five to six years, has been remarkable. From having virtually no substructure, their rise through the leagues, achieving 12 promotions in just 24 years, showcases their ambition and dedication, driven significantly by Mark and his team’s no-nonsense, communityfocused approach.
My family has deep connections to the club. My youngest son, Ben, now 19, is an avid supporter
who rarely misses a game, passionately traveling to away matches. He played local football for several years and also enjoyed refereeing. My eldest son, Sam, who’s now 21, was involved in Dorking Wanderers’ academy program as a goalkeeper. Though he’s hung up his gloves, he remains connected to the club, following closely.
This past season, we’ve been regulars at home games and enjoyed away trips, including weekends at Bath and Hemel Hempstead. One memorable moment was the knockout qualifying round at Boreham Wood, which, despite the loss, was exceptionally entertaining and encapsulated what Wanderers consistently offer their supporters—thrilling football.
At Station View Garage, we primarily serve the Dorking community and surrounding villages, focusing on automotive maintenance and repairs. Sponsoring the club aligns closely with our values and commitment to community support. This year marks 30 years since our first customer, who still travels up from Southampton, reflecting the loyalty and community spirit we cherish.
What makes Dorking Wanderers special is
undoubtedly the people. There’s genuine authenticity and a passionate, respectful desire to achieve success without arrogance. Fans feel they’re part of a meaningful journey with the club, especially as the community rallied strongly following relegation from the
National League, showcasing unwavering local support. It’s this spirit, combined with educational and life-focused initiatives in their academy led by people like Jordan Clark, that makes supporting and sponsoring Dorking Wanderers deeply rewarding and enjoyable.
RICHARD MOFFAT SUPPORTER & SPONSOR: CEO OF OLBG
I’m thrilled to share the story behind our partnerships, especially with Dorking Wanderers FC. Our journey together began when the club reached out after noticing the content we’d created around our sponsorship with Harry Derham, a talented and ambitious horse-racing trainer. Harry represents exactly the kind of individual we love to support—someone driven, passionate, and committed to achieving big goals. With Harry, our ambition goes beyond mere sponsorship; we aim to help him reach the pinnacle as a champion trainer.
We’ve set up The OLBG Racing club to support our partnership which has grown to over 200 members already. Racing fans who want to support Harry can get access to behind the scenes content, yard visits and experience race days as an owner. It’s developed into a really supportive group for the team.
Dorking Wanderers quickly recognised that our approach to sponsorship wasn’t just about placing logos on kits; it’s genuinely about partnering to achieve shared dreams. Early conversations showed a clear alignment in our values. Just as with Harry, our relationship with Dorking is built on a deeper understanding and commitment to support their ambitious aim of reaching League Two. This mutual ambition and communitydriven ethos perfectly mirror OLBG’s philosophy.
We’ve committed to an unprecedented five-year
partnership with Dorking—the longest sponsorship deal in the club’s history—because we believe in long-term relationships that genuinely foster growth and success. By aligning our sponsorship directly with the club’s own five-year goal of promotion to League Two, we’re putting real meaning behind our collaboration. Our involvement extends well beyond financial backing; it’s about being actively engaged in their journey and genuinely helping them achieve success.
Experiencing the club firsthand has confirmed just how special this relationship is. Visiting the games and meeting volunteers, players, and supporters highlighted the extraordinary spirit at Dorking. There’s an undeniable sense of collective purpose and unity. Everyone involved, from volunteers to talented players who could compete at higher levels, is passionately invested in what Dorking aims to achieve.
The sense of community and the club’s willingness to embrace a true partnership approach makes this relationship uniquely rewarding.
Ultimately, whether in football or horse racing, our philosophy at OLBG revolves around empowering talented people and organisations to realise their ambitions.
We don’t just provide sponsorship—we build meaningful partnerships, share in dreams, and actively support journeys toward excellence. It’s a philosophy that benefits everyone involved, creating lasting relationships that genuinely matter.
PAT FURLONG SUPPORTER & SPONSOR:
JJ
MAC LTD
I`m co-owner of JJ Mac Ltd alongside my brother John. Although I’m originally from Wexford in Ireland, I’ve lived in Dorking for over 30 years now—and I’ve come to know and love the place, especially its football club, Dorking Wanderers.
To be honest, I only really started getting involved about 10 years ago, when I first wandered down to Westhumble to watch a few games. Back then, you’d be lucky to see 50 people at a match. Fast forward to now, and it’s thousands turning out at Meadowbank. What a journey. It’s been incredible to watch, and to be
a part of it in our own way has been a real privilege.
We’ve been sponsoring Wanderers for the past five years or so, but our relationship goes beyond money or logos on shirts. Our company does earthworks and civils, and we’ve carried out construction work for the club—digging, groundwork, whatever’s needed. And more often than not, we just roll the cost back into the club through extended sponsorship. It’s never been about taking anything out—it’s about giving back to a club and people we believe in.
People like Marc White, the manager and chairman, are what make Dorking Wanderers so special. I’ve
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always said, he’s got that charisma, that authenticity. What you see is what you get with Marc. He knows his players, he understands personalities, and he knows how to handle them. I love standing near him on matchdays, just listening— what he says makes total sense. He’s got a brilliant football brain, but more than that, he’s a leader. You can see it in the way the players buy into everything he stands for. That resilience, that belief—”come down here and if you want something, you’re going to have to fight for it.” That’s the Dorking spirit.
Marc isn’t the only one either. The people behind the scenes are just as impressive—Jonathan, Lisa, Tommy, Chris—they all genuinely care. And it shows. I know when Tommy rings me, he’s usually got a job lined up, but that’s alright—I’ve got a few diggers and a few lads and we’ll help them out. It’s that kind of club. Everyone mucks in. No one’s in it for the prawn sandwiches, like Marc says. You have to get stuck in.
We’ve also got a great relationship between our two clubs—Wanderers and Bourne Town FC up in Lincolnshire, where we’re based. JJ Mac sponsors Bourne too, and they’ve had back-to-back promotions. This summer, we’re hosting Dorking up there for a pre-season friendly. Mark jumped at the chance. It’ll be a great day, and another sign of how football can build real connections between communities.
The truth is, non-league football offers something special. You’re close to the action. The players, the fans, the volunteers—it’s all one big family. It’s a million miles away from the Premier League circus. You can walk to the ground, you’re not getting stung for 80 quid a ticket, and it’s a proper, welcoming place to bring your kids. That’s what matters.
For me, it all comes down to the people. Dorking Wanderers isn’t just a football club. It’s a group of good people who look out for each other, who are building something amazing together. And I’m proud that JJ Mac can play a small part in that story.
DROITWICH SPA FC
2024/2025 Champions of Hellenic League Division One!
“This club has started to become something real and rewarding.”
ROB LAMB CLUB DIRECTOR
I first got involved when I went along to watch my sonin-law, who was goalkeeper at the time. I’ve always been a football supporter, so it didn’t take me long to become deeply interested in the team, and I soon agreed to “help out a bit!”
After a short while, as plans for developing a ground and progressing the club evolved, I was invited to join the new board alongside Pete Lemon, Wayne Oliver, Mark Bowen, and David Stockdale. This
significantly boosted our push for redevelopment with local authorities. In the meantime, we agreed to groundshare with Stourport Swifts FC, who were fantastic landlords. We set a five-year plan to secure two promotions (into Step 5) and return to our town with an appropriate stadium. Wychavon District Council and the Football Foundation were incredibly supportive, and after many meetings, we secured promotion to Step 6 in the 2021/22 season, marking our first season at that level in our new ground.
Three years later, we achieved promotion to Step 5. Promotion is challenging; it might sound obvious, but only one team automatically goes up, and we experienced two years of play-off final defeats. Based on performances against Step 5 clubs in County Cups and the FA Vase, we felt we were already a “Step 5 club” in all but name, but we had to earn it.
The redeveloped facilities we lease include our grass stadium pitch, dressing rooms, and a clubhouse bar. Following promotion, additional spectator cover is needed, and we’d like to add a second 100-seater stand in the coming years.
The bar hosts a local Dementia support group twice weekly, maintaining a strong relationship. It also opens weekday evenings for parents watching their children train on the adjacent 3G pitch. These children primarily represent the Youth Football club, but we also have Veterans, Ladies, and Disability teams, all connected by wearing the same kit. First-team match days have become community events, drawing around 200 spectators of all ages, coming for a drink, a chat, and football.
We have an excellent relationship with the local High School. Students have come to us for work experience, gaining insights into running a non-league club, finances, volunteer roles, pitch care, and matchday operations. We also recruited four sixth-form pupils through the school to help with cooking breakfast for parents on Saturday mornings. We believe a football club at
this level can offer valuable opportunities for students interested in journalism, media, physiotherapy, coaching, finance, or catering.
Our current under-18 team is performing exceptionally, competing at the top of the Midland Floodlit Youth League, and we hope this becomes a route to the first team. Bridging that gap and keeping young talent at the club requires patience from both sides. Strengthening this pathway remains an important ambition.
The club’s mood is fantastic. Nearly 600 people attended our match on Saturday, where we lifted the league trophy—542 were paying spectators and sponsors, and players brought their families to celebrate. We eagerly anticipate the new season, fixtures, and possible first-ever FA Cup entry. The atmosphere couldn’t be better.
One family exemplifies our community spirit—three sons around the first-team squad, a daughter excelling in the girls’ team, the dad playing regularly for the Over-50s vets, and their mum serving as our matchday medical officer!
Our league season couldn’t have gone better. After two years of playoff heartbreak, automatic promotion was our priority, which we achieved while also advancing to the third round of the FA Vase for the first time.
The under-18s currently lead their league with two games left, and our development side in the West Midlands (Regional) League Division One, mainly composed of under-18 players gaining adult football experience, is currently fifth, showing significant development.
Returning to town and engaging local businesses produced an immediate, overwhelming response. Advertising boards quickly sold out, with many advertisers regularly attending matches. Local professionals generously volunteered time to enhance the ground and clubhouse, rewarded with hospitality and match tickets, and keep returning to help.
We enjoy excellent relationships with Droitwich Town Council. The current Mayor regularly supports matches, and we’ve held joint events, such as visits from Kevin Keegan to open the ground and the High Sheriff of Worcestershire, who presented volunteer awards.
Sponsors are vital at this level. We focus on local businesses, fostering mutual support and community engagement through programme adverts and social
media promotions. From elderly supporters enjoying weekend outings to children experiencing football for the first time, Droitwich Spa FC has become something
genuinely rewarding. Players feel connected too, evident in strong away support and post-match interactions with fans. Stability in the first-team squad over recent seasons further enhances this bond.
BEN LLOYD COMMUNICATIONS OFFICER
The cornerstones of the club’s recent success are unity, commitment, and continuity. The Board set a five-year plan, executed brilliantly on the pitch by the management and playing squad, while dedicated volunteers worked tirelessly behind the scenes to enable success.
Volunteers manage everything—from cleaning changing rooms post-match and tidying the stadium after home games, averaging gates of 225 in 2024-25, to ground maintenance, stocking merchandise, distributing programmes, and advertising fixtures. Droitwich Spa FC is a seven-day commitment for our dedicated volunteers.
Matchdays begin Friday, preparing the pitch. By Saturday 9 am, the bar and kitchen open, refreshment stands are stocked, signage set, changing rooms prepared, and hospitality arranged. The playing squad has stayed together, many surpassing 150 appearances—a rarity today. Manager Andy Crowther and his coaching team (Joe Mayo-Braiden, Matt Hunt, Matt Oliver, Aaron Drake, Chris Hunt) have remained consistent since 2021. Four have previously played for The Saltmen, accumulating nearly 1,000 appearances combined. Since succeeding former Worcester City player Mark Owen, Andy Crowther and his staff have overseen an exceptional record: Played: 173 Won: 119 Drawn: 19 Lost: 35 Win rate: 68.7%
This period under Crowther marks the most successful chapter in Spa’s 40-year history, achieving promotion to Step 6 in his first full season, reaching consecutive Step 6 playoff finals, and securing first-ever promotion to Step 5 in 2024-25.
MARTYN DAVIES
SUPPORTER & SPONSOR:
MINDFUL FINANCIAL PLANNING
I’ve lived in Droitwich on and off for my whole life and have always felt connected to Droitwich Spa FC. My first memories of the club go back to when I was about 15 or 16 years old. I played hockey, and our pitch was right next to the football ground, so after our matches, we’d wander over to watch the football. Back then, the club facilities were quite basic—just a small green shed by the pitchside—but I enjoyed supporting the team nonetheless.
Over the years, although cricket became my main sport, my connection with the football club remained strong. When Droitwich had to play temporarily in Stourport, I kept track of their results but didn’t get to many games. That all changed once the club moved back home, thanks to the efforts of Rob, Wayne, and Mark. Now, attending games has become a great social event, and there’s a solid group of us who go regularly whenever we’re not playing our own sports.
This past season has been particularly memorable. I’ve been to quite a few matches and have thoroughly enjoyed
the football. It’s exciting to watch, especially as the team has been consistent, allowing us to get to know the players and their style of play. Winning the league this year, especially after the disappointment of losing playoff finals in previous seasons, was fantastic. It felt well-deserved after such hard work and resilience.
I believe the club is wellprepared for the step-up next season. They have a strong core of players and an excellent structure, thanks to the careful management by Mark, Wayne, and Rob. Their sustainable approach and community focus have turned matchdays into significant local events, attracting around 200 supporters regularly—a huge leap from the handful of fans in the past.
Through my company, Mindful Financial Planning, we’ve sponsored the club since they returned to Droitwich. For us, it’s a way to give back to the community, reflecting our commitment to local sports initiatives. It’s gratifying to see our contributions going to a genuinely positive and community-driven project. Ultimately, what makes Droitwich Spa FC so special are the people involved— from the directors down to
the volunteers selling tickets or serving at the bar. It’s clear everyone is committed to a shared vision, making it easy to support the club wholeheartedly.
WAYNE OLIVER BOARD MEMBER
Football has been the heartbeat of my life for as long as I can remember. Born and bred in Droitwich, my journey in the game began not on the pitch, but on the sidelines. I was watching my son Matthew play for the local under-9s when Frank Holiday, the club’s stalwart, approached me. They needed volunteers, and before I knew it, I was coaching. That moment sparked a lifelong commitment to grassroots football.
Matthew, or Matt as we call him, was just eight when he started playing. By nine, he was scouted by West Bromwich Albion, thanks to Frank’s keen eye. That opened a new chapter for both of us. I travelled the country with Matt, supporting his journey while immersing myself deeper into the footballing world. It was during this time I took on managerial roles at clubs like Bromyard Town, Pershore Town, and Halesowen Town. At Bromyard, I had the privilege of working alongside Bernard McNally, the former West Brom and Northern Ireland midfielder. Bernie’s experience and insights were invaluable, and our collaboration enriched my understanding of the game.
About a decade ago, I found myself back in Droitwich, ostensibly retired from football. But fate had other plans. I went to watch a match where Matt was playing, and the team suffered a heavy defeat. A former player of mine spotted me and reached out, saying, “We’re in trouble, can you help us out?” That call reignited my passion. I teamed up with Mark Owen, and we took over the first team. We focused on nurturing local talent and instilling a sustainable philosophy. In our first season, we climbed from the bottom to finish seventh, laying the foundation for future success.
After five years on the touchline, I transitioned to a director role, recognizing the need to balance onfield ambitions with off-field responsibilities. We appointed Andy Crowther, a former player, as the manager, and together, we embarked on a mission to redevelop the club’s infrastructure. Our goal was clear: build a club that the community could be proud of.
Reflecting on the evolution of football, I’ve witnessed significant changes. In my youth, opportunities were limited; you played for your school, maybe your county, and if you were lucky, a local men’s team. Today, the landscape is vastly different, with structured pathways and
academies. However, the introduction of the National League System, with its step classifications, has had mixed effects. While it has elevated the quality at higher levels, it has also diluted district leagues, reducing opportunities for players transitioning from youth to senior football.
This season has been historic for Droitwich Spa FC. After years of near misses, we clinched the Hellenic Division One title and secured promotion to Step 5 for the first time in the club’s history. Our success is a testament to consistency and resilience. We utilized a core group of 22-23 players throughout the season, fostering unity and understanding. The pain of previous playoff defeats galvanized the team, making this achievement even more special.
What truly sets Droitwich Spa FC apart is our community spirit. We’re not just a football club; we’re a hub for the town. From the youngest youth teams to the senior squad, we operate as one family. Our players, coaches, and board members are all deeply rooted in the community. We prioritize sustainability over shortterm gains, ensuring that our growth benefits everyone involved. The joy of seeing local kids don our kit, the pride of residents discussing our matches—these moments make every effort worthwhile.
As we look ahead, the excitement is palpable. The town is buzzing with anticipation for our FA Cup journey. It’s a new chapter, and we’re ready to embrace it, grounded in our values and driven by our community.
MARK BOWEN BOARD MEMBER
I’m born and bred in Droitwich Spa and I came onto the board of Droitwich Spa FC eight years ago and alongside Wayne Oliver, Rob Lamb and David Stockdale have sought to finally give our town a team we could call our own. For too long talented players have had to leave Droitwich to chase proper Saturday football. Our mission was simple: build something here so good that our own town players wouldn’t dream of going anywhere else and players from elsewhere would be attracted to the set up.
Watching us lift the league title this season—our highest ever finish—has been beyond special. It wasn’t just about the trophy, but what it sparked across town: families, friends and neighbours pouring into King George V Playing Fields or ‘Kingys’ each Saturday, united in one purpose.
I still pinch myself at how far we’ve come. Just a few seasons ago we were scrapping to stay competitive; this year we outscored second place by 35 goals and were defensively solid to claim the crown.
A huge turning point was when we redeveloped our ground. As I said at the unveiling, “We could not be happier to have a facility
here now that we didn’t ever have or experience before” The modern stand, fresh changing rooms and improved clubhouse didn’t just give our players a proper home—it signalled to everyone in Droitwich that this club is progressive. Day to day, I work with the board to balance ambition with sustainability. Nonleague football is a financial tightrope: every cost has to be weighed against what we can realistically deliver without jeopardizing the club’s future. So, we focus first and foremost on the first team— making smart signings, keeping our squad together, and nurturing that unbreakable spirit that carried us to the title. We’ve never set a bar at so what level we want to reach; instead, we let our on-field performance dictate our next step.
Looking ahead, we’ll be testing ourselves at the next tier up for the first time ever. Our priority remains the same: keep building a club that reflects the heart of our town. Right now we’re looking at consolidating our new league status and ensuring Kingys stays a place where every home fixture feels like a celebration in the community. This club belongs to Droitwich and hopefully together we’re only just getting started.
ROB TIMMINS SUPPORTER & SPONSOR:
NEWLAND
HURST
CARE HOME
I’m originally from the Black Country but have lived in Droitwich for several years now, and I’ve always felt warmly welcomed by the community here. My connection to Droitwich Spa FC started from simply attending games and enjoying the vibrant atmosphere. As I watched matches, I realized there was a wonderful opportunity to connect my work at Newland Hurst, a local care home for people with disabilities, with the football club.
Several of our residents are passionate football fans, but attending larger stadiums posed significant accessibility challenges. Droitwich Spa FC provided the perfect solution. The club has been fantastic in accommodating our residents, offering them easy access, parking spots near the entrance, and treating them like VIPs every time they visit. This has made matchdays a joyful and inclusive experience for our residents, significantly enriching their social lives.
Droitwich Spa FC genuinely embodies community spirit. From young children to older veterans, everyone is welcomed and valued. The atmosphere at the ground is always buzzing, particularly on weekends, where the fields are bustling with youth teams, training sessions, and matches. The sense of community involvement and inclusion at the club is truly inspiring.
My family has also become deeply connected to the club. My children, Mary and Lucas,
regularly attend matches with me and have even found a hero in Perry Moss, one of the standout players. The interactions our kids have with players like Perry, who are always approachable and friendly, make every matchday special.
The success the club achieved this past season, winning promotion after previous near-misses, was incredibly deserved. Everyone involved—from the players and management to volunteers and fans—shared a clear vision and determination, and it was thrilling to be part of that journey.
As a sponsor through Newland Hurst, we’ve proudly supported the club by sponsoring key players and purchasing season tickets for our residents. This partnership has been mutually beneficial and meaningful.
What sets Droitwich Spa FC apart is the genuine community spirit, inclusiveness, and the absence of any barriers or hierarchy. Everyone, from board members to fans, is united, approachable, and passionate about the club’s success and community involvement. For our residents, this club offers friendships and connections beyond their daily routines, truly enhancing their quality of life.
Our mission is to support people to live the life they choose. If we were to sum it up in a few words, we would say that we offer our residents security, support, care, warmth and fellowship, and the opportunity to learn and develop through experience.
MK IRISH FC
A remarkable season!
2024-2025 Champions of Spartan South Midlands League Premier Division
PATRICK SCHOLTE
VICE CHAIRMAN
“As Terry said in his end-ofseason interview, this is the end of the beginning, but it’s also the start of the next chapter in Milton Keynes Irish history. Let’s hope the next chapter is as successful as the last.”
I first became involved with MK Irish in the 2018/2019 season. Maff Childs, who was the first-team coach at the time, bumped into me at Parkrun and mentioned they were short a goalkeeper, asking if I could help out at step 6. I played a handful of games to help cover injuries, but like many who enter MK Irish, I quickly became hooked. The camaraderie among the lads, the strong community bond, and the old-fashioned atmosphere of drinking in the bar made it a special place to be.
Fast forward seven years and I’m still here, though my role has evolved significantly. The team is now much better—today they’d have to be desperate to ask me to play as goalkeeper! I’m now Vice Chairman, helping with Veo filming, social media, fundraising, grant applications, and overseeing ground development to meet grading requirements.
Running a non-league club is always challenging, and our volunteers truly are the heart of MK Irish. Without their commitment, our progress would have been impossible. Every Tuesday and Thursday morning, a dedicated group gathers to work on ground improvements. Their efforts significantly impact the players, whether it’s manning gates, operating the tea/ burger bar, managing the club shop, maintaining the grounds, washing kits, or providing stewarding and social media updates on match days. The coaches, former players Liam Smyth and Keelan Shand, have really stepped up this season and have built fantastic relationships with the players.
Next season, our primary challenge will be completing ground grading, specifically installing a double turnstile quoted at over £7000 plus VAT. Thankfully, we’re nearly there.
Our ambitions are significant, both on and off the pitch. Terry, our firstteam manager, initially aimed for Step 4 Southern League football, and having achieved that this season, he’s already set his sights on Step 3. Everyone at MK Irish is determined to support this ambition. The season
only finished two days ago, yet diggers and dumpers are already at work on the far end of our ground, installing a new walkway and, hopefully, a new stand before next season begins.
Milton Keynes is rapidly growing, nearing a population of 350,000, yet until now hasn’t had a non-league side playing higher than Step 5 in nearly 40 years. Next season we’ll be at Step 4, and our goal is to eventually offer Step 1-3 football right here in Milton Keynes, preventing talented local players from having to travel elsewhere.
Year after year, our facilities have improved significantly. This season we introduced a new player tunnel. Last season saw the addition of terraced standing; two years ago, a new tea/burger bar was built. Our pitch, meticulously maintained by manager Terry Shrieves, has become one of the league’s best. Terry’s current project is installing a sprinkler/irrigation system for the summer months. Over the next 2-5 years, we plan to build a fullsized 4G training pitch next to our main ground and a new clubhouse on our existing car park. Detailed plans will be unveiled in May 2025.
Both our first team and reserves share the same playing philosophy. They train together on Tuesdays and Thursdays, easing the transition for players moving between teams.
Our history as MK Irish is brief, having been founded in 2020. Previously known as Buckingham Town, the club played at Ford Meadow, Buckingham, until the landlord repurposed the site. The club nearly folded in 2018 after almost a decade away from Buckingham. Terry Shrieves, with deep ties to Buckingham, stepped in, proposing the name change as we relocated to MK Irish Centre in Milton Keynes. Despite this transition, we remain profoundly proud of Buckingham Town’s heritage, with stalwarts Darren Seaton and Colin Chart regularly supporting us at matches.
The mood around the club is incredibly positive. Everyone shares a unified vision of growth. We are introducing an U18 team in the JPL league for the 25/26 season, developing a women’s team, and expanding our junior setup to establish a pathway into firstteam football. Collaborating with Bletchley Rugby Club and Bletchley Town Cricket Club allows us access to additional pitches for further expansion.
This season was remarkable. The first team clinched the Spartan South Midlands league title, securing promotion to the Southern League Central. Scoring over 100 goals and losing just one game was phenomenal. Although we narrowly missed out in the
Dudley Latham Memorial Cup final (3-1), next season will see our debut in the FA Trophy, and we’re hopeful for a strong performance.
Our ultimate aim is to be a true community club, engaging Milton Keynes’ rapidly growing population. Attendances have risen from 50 to 200 since our founding, with post-match gatherings becoming increasingly popular. Players often express surprise at our strong team bond and vibrant social life. Improving the fan experience remains a key priority.
Sponsorship is essential for us, providing crucial funding that helps us sustain and improve facilities for the local community. Many of our sponsors are closely connected as family, friends, or supporters, a testament to our community spirit.
MK Irish is genuinely like an extended family. Manager Terry Shrieves and assistant manager Glynn Creaser set a welcoming, ambitious tone that resonates throughout the club. Their leadership has propelled us from lower Step 6 to Step 4, remarkably achieved on a modest winbonus structure. Players have shown incredible loyalty, turning down better financial offers elsewhere to remain part of this exciting project. That loyalty is rare in non-league football, underscoring what a special environment we’ve created at Manor Fields.
KETTERING TOWN FC
“One Goal, One Family!”
BENEFICIAL OWNER
NADIM (GEORGE) AKHTAR
I’m originally from Watford—born and bred, so Northamptonshire wasn’t my home ground. My journey to Kettering Town FC wasn’t straightforward, but football has always been a huge part of my life. After finishing my playing career, where I was fortunate enough to play in Ireland and Romania, and even represent my country, I naturally transitioned into coaching and managing. I set up my own coaching academy in Watford and worked closely with professional academies. However, it became clear quickly that there was
a ceiling in professional football, limiting how far I could progress.
One day, jokingly, during an FA talent identification course, I mentioned to my FA tutor that perhaps I should buy a football club. Coincidentally, he informed me that the FA was actively supporting clubs facing financial turmoil and mentioned Kettering Town was up for sale. Over the Christmas break, he sent me a message reaffirming this opportunity. I then reached out to my connections—high-
end football agents—to set up a meeting with the club’s owner. After nine meetings, we struck a deal, and the rest, as they say, is history.
Choosing Kettering wasn’t impulsive; I did my homework thoroughly. It wasn’t just about the community spirit, although that was important— it was the fans, the club’s rich history, and my personal connection to Rockingham Road, where I once got scouted by Grimsby Town as a young player. All these factors combined felt right, making it a clear decision for me.
I officially became the owner around the first of May last year, and it has certainly been a journey.
When I stepped in, there was a clear need for structure and guidance. The previous owner had essentially left the staff, like the accountant and bar manager, to their own devices. Establishing clear roles and a chain of command, though I dislike hierarchical terms, became essential. Now, a year on, we are much more structured, although we still have further improvements to make. We’ve adopted a motto of ‘one goal, one family,’ helping everyone move in the same direction.
Football is very much a family affair for me. My wife, kids, siblings, nieces, nephews—all my family members are deeply involved and committed to the club, which makes the community aspect even stronger.
Promotion to the National League North was always a clear goal for me. Winning the league was not just an aspiration; it’s something I expected as part of my commitment to excellence. Achieving this would mean a lot, fast-tracking the twoyear goal I initially set for myself. Yet, regardless of the outcome this season, the progress we’ve made is already significant.
In terms of community involvement and youth development, I inherited strong foundations. We already had youth teams, academies, walking football groups, and previously, even a women’s team. My focus now is to rebuild and expand these offerings, ensuring Kettering Town remains accessible and welcoming to everyone.
On a personal note, it’s
important for me, being of Asian heritage and having faced racism in my playing career, to be a positive role model. There were few people like me in football ownership positions growing up, so paving the way and showing others it’s possible is something I deeply cherish. It’s crucial for young boys and girls of any background to see that hard work, commitment, and a bit of luck can make dreams achievable. I carry this responsibility proudly. What truly makes Kettering Town special, beyond its remarkable history—being the third oldest professional
club in the country, the top FA Cup goal scorers, and the first UK club to have shirt sponsorship—is the unwavering support from our fans. Although fans’ expectations can change quickly, their passion and dedication are unmatched. Being custodian of a club with nearly 200 years of history is an honor, and I’m committed to protecting and enhancing this legacy. My hope is that, whether I’m here for one year or twenty, I’ll be remembered as someone who genuinely cared and left the club better than I found it.
A LITTLE OF OUR HISTORY
Founded in 1872 as Kettering Football Club, the team quickly made its mark by joining the Midland League in 1892. By 1895-96, they clinched the league title and made headlines in the FA Cup with victories over Football League clubs like Loughborough and Leicester Fosse. Despite these successes, their bid for Football League entry in 1900 fell short, leading them to join Division One of the Southern League.
After a brief stint in the Northamptonshire League due to league restructuring, Kettering returned to the Southern League in 1909, securing runners-up spots in both Division Two B and the Northamptonshire League in 1909-10. Their fortunes fluctuated until 1924 when they became Kettering Town, achieving notable success by winning the Southern League championship in 1927-28.
Despite multiple attempts, including strong showings in the 1930s and 1950s, Kettering’s aspirations for Football League membership were repeatedly denied. Their resilience was evident as they moved through various leagues, including spells in the Birmingham & District League and the Central Combination, before returning triumphantly to the Southern League in 1950.
The 1970s brought a new era with Derek Dougan’s tenure, marked by pioneering shirt sponsorship negotiations and memorable FA Cup runs. In 1979, they became founding members of the Alliance Premier League (now the National League), where they continued to compete at the top of the non-League pyramid.
Throughout the 1990s and early 2000s, Kettering remained competitive, reaching the FA Trophy final in 2000 and making notable runs in league competitions. However, financial challenges and stadium issues in the 2010s saw them relegated to lower divisions. Despite setbacks, the club has consistently demonstrated resilience, clinching promotions and competing at various levels in English football.
Recent years have seen Kettering continue to rebuild and compete fiercely, securing promotions and facing the challenges of league reorganizations. As they look ahead, Kettering Town remains a resilient force in English football, anchored by a rich history and a passionate fanbase.
NAHEED SHEARS COMMERCIAL MANAGER
I first got involved with Kettering Town FC through my brother, George. When he initially told me he was buying the club, my reaction was something along the lines of, “Erm, OK?!” But as we talked more, I began to fully understand and appreciate his vision and ambition for the club. George’s passion was contagious, and I quickly knew this was something special I wanted to be part of.
Witnessing how the club has developed—not only in footballing terms but also in strengthening its community connections—has become one of the most rewarding decisions I’ve ever made.
As the Commercial Manager, my role focuses on cultivating relationships with local businesses and supporters to ensure our continued growth both on and off the pitch. One particularly exciting development is our acquisition of Maplefields Community Centre, a move that will significantly enhance our community engagement. It’s not just about football; it’s about creating a welcoming space for young people to enjoy physical activities or simply have somewhere safe and inclusive to gather. We also aim to involve older community members by establishing a central hub where people can come together, connect, and feel part of something bigger.
For local businesses, this presents a fantastic opportunity to align themselves with a club genuinely making a difference. Sponsorship here means more than just advertising—it’s joining a
movement, supporting vital community programs, and helping to ensure Kettering Town FC thrives for future generations. With our attendance rising dramatically from around 600 last season to over 1,400 regularly, and even 2,800 during finals, there’s truly never been a better time to get involved.
Being part of Kettering Town FC is incredibly special because of our rich history and the wonderful people who’ve been involved, past and present. The club’s legacy spans decades, filled with
triumphs, challenges, and remarkable resilience. Yet, what truly sets us apart are the supporters, the dedicated volunteers, the backing from local businesses, and the committed individuals working tirelessly behind the scenes.
There’s an undeniable sense of belonging here. Whether it’s matchdays, community projects, or partnerships like Maplefields, the club consistently unites people. It transcends football—it’s the heartbeat of our community, and I’m genuinely proud to be a part of it.
DAVE THOMPSON SUPPORTER & SPONSOR:
AE SMITH BODYCRAFT LTD
I’ve been a Kettering Town supporter and sponsor for about 15 years now, ever since I took over my business. My connection to the club goes back even further—growing up locally, I’ve always known about Kettering Town, especially from when they moved to Borough because the old place was a bit of a mess. Back then, they lost a lot of support because people just didn’t want to travel, and rivalries made it harder for some fans.
But what really stands out to me now is what George Akhtar and his sister Naheed have done for the club. They’ve transformed it into a proper family
football club. It’s not just about football anymore— it’s about community and bringing families together.
I’ve spoken to George a few times and know Naheed well; she’s brilliant at engaging with sponsors and local businesses, and she really works hard for the club. Naheed is lovely and approachable, and she’s been key in making the club more connected locally.
This past season has been brilliant. Sure, it was disappointing not to go up after all the hard work, but George and the team have made huge improvements in just one year. The stadium looks tidier and far more professional with the tireless work that has been carried out by all the volunteers and helpers. George is down-to-
in
the people in the area. He’s a family man who has the club’s best interests at heart.
I’ve seen the impact on my own family too. My wife Sarah wasn’t really into football before, and we didn’t have it on much at home. But since the changes at Kettering Town and following the club more closely, she actually enjoys going to games now—and we even bought the Sky Sports package for the first time in over 30 years! It’s become a real family affair with both my daughters involved too: Shayla & Davenna. My youngest daughter Davenna plays grassroots football as well, and she loves it. It’s changed our whole family’s relationship with football, and I put that down to the club’s new family-friendly atmosphere.
What makes Kettering Town special is exactly that sense of community and family. You can take your kids, meet people, and everyone feels welcome. It’s not just about the 90 minutes on the pitch—it’s about the people and the connections that come with it. The club is a big part of our town, and I think with George and Naheed’s leadership, it’s only going to get stronger.
STANWAY ROVERS FC
2024/2025 Champions of The Essex Senior League.
IVAN SENTER CLUB SECRETARY
“This successful season particularly makes all the effort worthwhile!”
I first became involved with Stanway Rovers FC in the early Eighties when the First team was playing in the Essex and Suffolk Border League (Step 7). Initially, I ran the line for the reserve team, acted as kit man, and occasionally stepped in as a substitute. Eventually, I progressed to running the line for the first team and was elected onto the committee. At this time, the club played on local comprehensive school pitches
while securing a lease on land (a former rubbish tip) to develop their own ground.
A career change meant I began working Saturdays, shifting my involvement to the U18 team playing on Sundays, mainly running the line. During this period, I undertook a first aid course, becoming the physio for the U18 squad and occasionally helping the first team, all while actively serving on the committee.
As the club progressed from Step 7 to Step 6, another career shift allowed me to return to Saturday involvement with the first team and take on the
secretary role, a position I’ve held since (apart from brief breaks). Throughout this time, I also acted as groundsman and first-team physio, coinciding with the club’s advancement to Step 5.
My varied roles within the club have experienced highs and lows, often prompting thoughts of “what am I doing this for?”—a sentiment likely shared by volunteers nationwide. However, witnessing players advance to higher levels provides immense satisfaction. This successful season particularly makes all the effort worthwhile.
During these developments on the pitch, we planned a new clubhouse and function room. After a rejection by the National Lottery, funds were raised through dedicated volunteers and a bank loan, resulting in the Function Room’s opening in 2000.
FEELING AT THE CLUB
With the current success of the first team and our U18s winning their Zonal league undefeated, there’s a buoyant atmosphere throughout the club. Winning fosters positivity at all club levels, demonstrated by the fantastic turnout of 419 spectators at the recent local derby against Halstead Town, including youth players (with free entry), their parents, and enthusiastic mascots, even selling out the burger bar.
PLAYER CONNECTIONS
Many players from our youth section have progressed to higher levels, including Steps 4, 3, and even ESL, inspiring younger members to aim high.
CLUB
DEVELOPMENT PLANS
For a complete pitch refurbishment are underway, including an all-weather (3G/4G) playing surface, new floodlights, and perimeter fencing. Funding negotiations are ongoing but may face delays due to the current costof-living crisis.
SOCCABILITY FOOTBALL
Stanway Rovers are committed to inclusivity in football by partnering with Ability Using Sport (AUS) to offer sessions for under-16s with Autism, ADHD, Learning Difficulties, and Special Educational Needs. We aim
to extend this to adults aged 16 and over who cannot join mainstream clubs, providing training sessions led by experienced disability football coaches. This pilot initiative aims to form an adult team for mixed-ability players excluded from grassroots football.
YOUTH FOOTBALL
Stanway Rovers boasts an extensive youth program with over forty teams ranging from U6 to U18, including dedicated girls’ teams, all supported by committed coaches.
WOMEN’S FOOTBALL
The club proudly maintains a women’s football section with both a Senior Team and a Junior Ladies U16s squad.
WALKING FOOTBALL
In January 2024, we introduced walking football, providing over 50s in the community an active and social opportunity. Our walking football section now has 50 participants aged between 50-75. We run two one-hour training sessions each Monday night, offering developmental and competitive play. On Saturdays, our over-50s and over-60s teams compete monthly in the Essex League, with the over-50s team having previously won their division and currently placed second, while the over-60s are enjoying their first competitive season.
COACHING
Stanway Rovers provides a safe, friendly training environment for all ages, from senior to junior levels.
ENGAGEMENT WITH THE COMMUNITY
Stanway Rovers has long enjoyed strong community ties, providing facilities to diverse local groups, including a bereavement club, slimming club, nursery, and others. Local businesses significantly support the club through sponsorship, essential to our ongoing success. We deeply appreciate all our sponsors, whose contributions are crucial to our growth.
THE STORY OF STANWAY ROVERS
Records indicate the current Stanway Rovers FC reformed on July 10th, 1956, although evidence suggests football activity in Stanway dating back to the early 1900s. Initially playing at King George V Playing Field, Clairmont Road, Lexden, they quickly rose from Division 2 to the Premier Division of the Colchester & East Essex League by 1960. In 1961, the club moved to Stanway Secondary School, enjoying excellent facilities. Their most successful early period came in the 1973-74 season, winning all available league and competition trophies and reaching the Essex Junior Cup quarter-finals.
The club joined the Essex & Suffolk Border League Division 1 in 1975, achieving promotion to Division One after finishing third in the newly created Division Two (1978-79). In 1979, Stanway Rovers secured a 99-year lease on land in New Farm Road, establishing the Hawthorns, officially opened in November 1982. Despite not securing National Lottery funding, the current headquarters— including the Members Bar and Hawthorn suite—were opened in March 2001.
Today, Stanway Rovers hosts over 40 teams, including adult men’s, women’s, youth, and recently added walking football teams.
STANWAY ROVERS
Stanway Rovers has thrived through dedicated volunteer support, transforming into a family-friendly club that offers sporting and social activities. The positive efforts of members, staff, and the committee have been invaluable, creating something we proudly celebrate.
The 2024/25 season has been highly successful across all club sectors, from senior to youth:
• Our first team requires just one win from two fixtures to gain promotion to Step 4.
• Our U23 team has impressively climbed to third in their league.
• Our U18 team has dominated their zonal league.
• Youth teams across all age groups have shown excellent performances.
While the first team’s cup competitions ended prematurely this season, the league achievements across the club are a testament to the collective effort and dedication from everyone involved.
AFC PORTCHESTER
2024/2025 Champions of The Velocity Wessex League Division & Treble Winners!
“It’s a great time to be involved with AFC Portchester, and we are absolutely loving the fantastic journey we’re on—we welcome anyone who wants to join us and experience this for themselves too.”
PAUL KELLY CHAIRMAN & FACILITIES MANAGER
My first involvement with the club was when my youngest son attended coaching sessions within the youth section at the age of four. Within a month, I was asked to help coach due to growing numbers each week, and this led to running teams for both my sons through to under-18s level some 30 years ago.
It’s been an incredible journey, holding many roles within the club from coaching and managing teams to youth secretary, tournament secretary, under-18s manager, assisting the reserve team, becoming main club secretary, and then proudly stepping into the role of chairman in 2012. This journey has seen us progress from playing on a local school field to taking on a lease from our local authority in 2006 for our current home, transforming it into an excellent ground for our level. This achievement would not have been possible without the dedicated efforts of many volunteers and committee members over the years, laying the foundations for what we have today.
The club has actively engaged with the local community and businesses, whose investment has been essential to our success both on and off the field. A significant boost for the club has been Trevor Deacon’s OnSite Group, investing substantially over the past six years. This support has helped us develop a robust business plan, shaping our vision for the future. There are
very exciting times ahead for everyone involved with the club and our local community.
The main challenges we faced navigating our teams to their current positions are typical for any non-league club. For much of the time at Step 5, only one club was promoted annually until recent introduction of promotion play-offs. Achieving promotion required a perfect season of results. The quality and ambition of teams within the Wessex League have made securing that sole promotion spot extremely difficult. The high standard is evidenced by clubs such as Sholing, Salisbury, and Winchester City, who now compete at Step 3 and above.
Off the field, facility development has always depended on available financial resources. As the club has grown, generating more revenue from improved facilities and stronger financial backing, this task has become increasingly manageable.
The OnSite Group Stadium began as part of a public playing field in the mid-2000s. Much of its transformation is thanks to our facilities manager, Paul Kelly, and countless volunteers who built and maintained the grounds using materials sourced creatively through personal connections, including upcycled materials and even items recovered from skips! This stadium truly demonstrates what can be achieved through resourcefulness. Recent grants of over £150,000 from Covid support schemes and the Premier League
Stadium Improvement Fund have allowed us to refresh existing facilities and add new developments. Our ambition as a club is continued growth both on and off the pitch. Having just won promotion to Step 4, we aim to reach Step 3 status quickly and establish stability at that level. We’ve begun securing key first-team players on long-term contracts, reflecting our serious ambitions and ensuring our talented squad remains central to our future plans.
Off-field facilities have seen significant growth and improvement, offering three main function areas available for hire for parties, weddings, celebrations, business meetings, and community groups. Additional rooms and a large outdoor bar area further enhance these offerings. Recently, we’ve completed a new hospitality suite, including a boardroom and kitchen.
Two exciting future projects are nearing fruition. We are launching an academy this summer, providing education and football pathways for school leavers with dedicated sections for boys and girls. Additionally, we’re collaborating with the Football Foundation, Hampshire FA, and Fareham Borough Council on plans for installing a 3G pitch by summer 2026. This will significantly enhance our capacity to develop players and expand community offerings, including femaleonly sessions, walking football, disability-inclusive activities, and casual play.
A BRIEF HISTORY
In April 1971, Lloyds Sports formed, joining the City of Portsmouth Sunday League Division 6. Renamed Colourvision Rangers in 197374, the club ascended to Senior Division 2. By 1976, it became Wicor Mill, eventually becoming Hampshire’s largest pub club with seven teams by 1986-87.
In 1998-99, the club joined Hampshire League Division 3, achieving successive promotions and becoming Division 1 champions in 2001-02. The pivotal merger with Castle Royals in 200203 established today’s AFC Portchester.
Now boasting 40 teams across senior and youth levels, the club has over 700 registered players, making it one of Hampshire’s largest. Recent successes include winning the Hampshire Senior Cup (2024) and becoming Velocity Wessex League Premier Division champions (2024-25).
Winning the Premier Division has brought euphoria to AFC Portchester, fulfilling a long-held ambition.
Celebrations after lifting the trophy encapsulated the club’s fantastic spirit, with hundreds of supporters joining players on the pitch, embodying community togetherness and club pride.
Notable former players include Championship midfielder Andy Rinomhota, who started his career with AFC Portchester before joining Reading in 2015 and later playing for Cardiff City, Rotherham United, and
internationally for Zimbabwe.
Brett Pitman, a top EFL goalscorer, joined in 2022 after notable spells at AFC Bournemouth, Portsmouth, Ipswich Town, Bristol City, and Bristol Rovers, scoring 50 goals in his first season with us.
This season has been outstanding for our men’s team, winning the league title and reaching multiple cup finals. Our women’s reserve and development teams have also clinched their league titles, with more silverware opportunities ahead.
Women’s and girls’ football is a major club component, comprising 31% of our 700+ players. Our senior women’s team competes at Tier 5, with eight youth girls’ teams. The upcoming 3G pitch will significantly boost growth in this sector.
With its extensive community engagement, AFC Portchester provides essential health benefits through regular physical activities for players of all ages. During the Covid-19 pandemic, we supported local residents through food banks and volunteer initiatives. Our facilities host countless community and charity events annually.
Sponsors are integral to our growth, notably The OnSite Group and JRC, significantly contributing financially and operationally. Sponsorship at AFC Portchester is mutually beneficial, bolstering both the club and the sponsors’ community profiles.
What makes AFC Portchester truly great is multifaceted—the on-field achievements, community involvement, passionate supporters, enthusiastic youth teams, and the invaluable support provided to local charities and events. This is just a glimpse of our club’s brilliance, and there’s so much more we could proudly share.
Our Large Youth Contingent at AFC Portchester!
AFC Portchester is proud to have a thriving and expansive youth section that plays a vital role in the club’s success and community engagement. The journey of the club has always been closely linked with youth development, starting from the early days when the chairman first became involved through his son’s coaching sessions at the age of four. His involvement grew quickly, leading him to coach and manage youth teams all the way through to under-18s level, a journey that has spanned over 30 years.
Today, AFC Portchester runs over 40 teams, with a mix of senior and youth age groups, making it one of the largest football clubs in Hampshire. The youth teams are an integral part of the club, with young players proudly representing the club at all levels. These youth teams are often seen celebrating alongside senior teams, reinforcing the sense of
unity that defines the club. It’s not just about playing football; it’s about creating a community where youth players are encouraged to grow, develop, and thrive in an environment that fosters both their athletic and personal growth.
Looking ahead, AFC Portchester is dedicated to expanding its youth offerings. The club plans to launch an academy designed to provide an education and football pathway for school leavers, with separate sections for both boys and girls. This new initiative will provide even more opportunities for young players to further their football careers and continue their education within the framework of the club.
AFC Portchester’s focus on youth football ensures that the club is nurturing the next generation of football talent, and it remains committed to providing a platform for young players to grow both on and off the pitch.
WOMEN & GIRLS FOOTBALL
Women’s and girls’ football forms a major part of AFC Portchester. The club has over 700 registered players and 31% of them are female. The senior section has three teams - with the first team playing in the Southern Region Women’s League Premier Division, which is at Tier 5 of the Women’s Football Pyramid system. There are eight girl’s teams playing at youth level within the club.
The women’s and girls’ sections of the club have grown rapidly in recent years, with more and more people wanting to play. The introduction of our new 3G Pitch in Summer 2026 will allow AFC Portchester to grow this section even further and meet the demand of the numbers who want to get involved.
SUPPORTER &
SPONSOR: THE ONSITE GROUP
I’ve been a lifelong football fan, always supporting Chelsea through thick and thin— Champions League finals and all the excitement at the highest level. But a few years ago, a good friend who was managing at AFC Portchester invited me down to watch some non-league football, and I quickly fell in love with it. There’s something special about the grassroots game— the passion, the community spirit, and the genuine connection you get with the club and the people around it.
My involvement started with sponsoring a board, simply because I knew the manager at the time. But as
I got more involved, I saw the ambition and community focus the club had, and I wanted to help build on that. Over time, I increased my investment and eventually took partial ownership to help bring a solid commercial structure to the club. We didn’t want to lose the heart and soul of AFC Portchester, so we maintained member ownership alongside ours to keep that community connection strong.
One of the things that really sets us apart is the business acumen behind the club. We’ve built a strong sponsorship base, with over a hundred sponsors supporting us—something rare at this level. That financial backing allows us to be sustainable and plan for the future
responsibly, which is crucial as we step up the football pyramid. We even employ a full-time commercial manager now to help with this.
Beyond the business side, the club is deeply committed to the community. We have the main pitch plus nine outside pitches, which we use to serve local people of all ages. Our ladies’ team is thriving, and we run mental health initiatives to support fans and locals. AFC Portchester is much more than a football club—it’s a community hub, bringing people together and providing a positive environment on and off the pitch.
We’re ambitious but realistic. Our current aim is to reach the Southern Premier League within the next two to three years. We don’t shout about it too much because we want steady, sustainable progress—not just chasing short-term success. Locationwise, we’re limited by our ground’s access, but that just makes us more creative in how we grow.
What makes AFC Portchester great to be part of? Without a doubt, it’s the community spirit and the people. We have volunteers, some in their seventies, who come in day after day to keep the club running—
painting posts, maintaining the grounds, and supporting everything we do. On match days, we have a fantastic corporate setup where supporters can enjoy a proper occasion with lunch and a half-time break on the halfway line. It’s about more than just a football match; it’s a social event, a celebration of local football and community.
And this season has been absolutely incredible for us. We managed to win the treble—the Wessex League Premier Division, which secured our promotion to step four, along with the Velocity Wessex League Cup, and the Portsmouth Divisional Football Association (PDFA) Cup. We won the final cup game of the season against Moneyfields on penalties after a hard-fought 1-1 draw. It’s a dream come true for the club and all of us involved. The hard work, passion, and community spirit have truly paid off.
Reflecting on it all, I’m proud beyond words. From my early days as a Chelsea supporter to now seeing AFC Portchester reach such heights, it shows what dedication and smart leadership can achieve. Winning the treble isn’t just a trophy haul—it’s a symbol of the club’s progress and the amazing future we’re building here.
COLWYN BAY FC
“What an extraordinary season it has been for us!”
BRIAN MADDEN CHAIRMAN- TOGETHER,
WE ARE STRONGER.
When we lost 4–0 at home to Bangor 1876 in the opening game of the JD Cymru North season, never did we imagine that would be the last time we’d taste defeat in the league. What followed was a remarkable 29-game unbeaten run, culminating in us clinching the Cymru North title for the second time.
Manager Mike Wilde and his assistant Danny Harrison, appointed last May, have worked tirelessly to cultivate an exceptional squad and guide our team towards success. We wholeheartedly believe in the culture that Mike is fostering at the club, and securing both him and Danny for the next three years underscores our strong commitment to their visionary leadership.
The title race with Airbus UK Broughton was thrilling, going down to the final day. We needed just a point at Penrhyncoch, and Dan Atkins’ goal secured a 1–0 victory, sparking wild celebrations among the 250 or so Bay fans who had travelled.
Our supporters have been
outstanding—once again, we were the best-supported club throughout the Welsh pyramid, averaging 732 for league games at the 4 Crosses Construction Arena and travelling in numbers for away games. Their unwavering dedication is truly appreciated.
Our previous stint in the top flight in 2023/24 only lasted a season, but it was an invaluable learning experience for everyone—on and off the pitch. With the Cymru Premier expanding to 16 teams for the 2026/27 season, we’re working tirelessly both on and off the pitch to establish ourselves at the top level of Welsh football.
Exciting developments are on the horizon. We’ve encouraged our supporters to share their ideas on enhancing their experience at the club, and we’re actively seeking new investment to build a bigger future. Interested parties can reach out to me directly at Brian.Madden@cbfc. wales.LinkedIn+5nwsport. co.uk+5Colwyn Bay FC/CPD Bae Colwyn+5
Our commitment to community is unwavering. It’s been an outstanding season across all levels of Colwyn Bay football. Our Reserves and Ladies teams have topped their respective leagues. The
young reserve team, under former player Paul Roberts, has performed admirably, providing a vital pathway for players into the first team. It’s been especially exciting to see reserve players and academy graduates earning their place in the senior squad during the season.
The Ladies team has been incredible since joining in the summer, remaining unbeaten in the North Wales Women’s Recreation League. Our commitment to women’s football is growing, with four girls’ teams now integrated into our junior setup. Members of our Ladies and Girls teams were present for the home game against Caersws, which, on International Women’s Day, was a designated Her Game Too fixture.
Our Junior section is another source of great pride, involving over 300 children across various age groups. As someone who has been involved in this area for many years, it’s heartening to see its continued success, which wouldn’t be possible without the incredible commitment of our coaches and families. We’re also pleased to welcome a new Over 60s Walking football team as part of the Seagulls family.
We are one of the select
clubs in Wales to achieve the Football Association of Wales’ Platinum Accreditation, reflecting excellence across both on-field and off-field operations.
I want to extend my heartfelt gratitude to each and every one of you for your outstanding support throughout the entire season. On behalf of all of us at the club—players, management, and officials— we are sincerely thankful for your unwavering dedication. We truly have the best fans in Welsh domestic football!
A heartfelt “Thank You” goes to our invaluable volunteers, the lifeblood of our club. Their unwavering support on match days and behind the scenes deserves immense recognition. From the bar and canteen staff to the safety team, media crew, and everyone else who contributes, your efforts are deeply appreciated.
To our partners and sponsors, your support has been invaluable. Thank you to all who sponsored a player, a match, or a matchball, as well as our perimeter board advertisers—your contributions truly make a difference.
Lastly, a profound thank you to all the Board Members who diligently work behind the scenes, united by the vision of making our club the best in Wales.
CARLY JOHNSTON SUPPORTER & MAIN
SPONSOR: THE
BLUE TURTLE
GROUP
Although life took me all over Mid and North Wales when I was younger, I was born in Colwyn Bay—and this town has always been home. Jody, my husband and business partner, and I first got involved with Colwyn Bay FC back in March. What started as a simple match ball sponsorship turned into something much bigger. The moment we walked through the gates, we just felt it. That indescribable pull. By June, we’d become the club’s main sponsors through our company, Blue Turtle Group—and now, we’re proud to say we’re also the majority shareholders.
Taking over from Dave and Brian Titchener is something I’ll never take lightly. They’ve poured their hearts into this club, and it’s only still standing today because of their hard work and vision. Being entrusted with what they’ve built means the world to me. It brings a lump to my throat, honestly, because I genuinely feel that trust—and for that reason alone, I will never let them down.
Colwyn Bay FC isn’t just a football club. It’s something far more special. From the volunteers on the supporters’
committee to the dedicated coaching teams, everyone gives of themselves here. You can feel it on match days—the energy, the sense of belonging. It’s people-powered. I always say in business, people work with people, and that’s just as true here. The sense of community is overwhelming in the best possible way.
And for me, it’s personal. I’ve got two amazing little ones—Harry, who’s nine and absolutely football-mad, and Marnie, who’s four and already racing around the sidelines with that same sparkle. Watching Harry play for the U9s is one of the proudest things for me. But right now, our junior teams have to train and play elsewhere—on 4G pitches off-site. That just doesn’t sit right. This is their club too. That’s why, as part of our 5 year plan, we’re investing in building a 4G pitch right here—so the juniors and our brilliant women’s teams don’t have to travel. I want to bring them all home.
When that day comes— and it will—you’ll see families here seven days a week. Kids training, little ones like Marnie playing safely in a new play area we’re putting in, parents enjoying a meal or a cuppa in the clubhouse. That’s the vision. A true community hub. We’re also planning
a brand-new two-storey modular clubhouse to replace the current one. It’s already in motion. Everything we’re doing, from top to bottom, is about creating a space everyone can be proud of. And it’s not just about money. It’s about being present, being hands-on. I’ve been up here painting walls, scrubbing, tidying—no one asked me to, I just wanted to. It matters. The people here have welcomed us in with open arms, and I feel lucky every day to be a part of it.
This club has real ambition— you can feel it buzzing just beneath the surface. The success of the women’s team last season, the drive among the men’s squad, the passion from every volunteer—it’s all there. I genuinely believe, with the right support off the pitch and belief on it, we’re going to achieve something incredible together.
I’ve got older children too, and even a beautiful new grandson, so I know what it means to want to leave something lasting behind. For me, that’s what Colwyn Bay FC is becoming: a lasting legacy. Not just for me and Jody, or even for Harry and Marnie—but for everyone who calls this club theirs. We are going places. And more than that—we’re doing it the right way. Together.
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RHYL 1879 FC
Champions of Ardal North West 24/25!
ADAM ROCHE MANAGING DIRECTOR
“At the heart of Rhyl 1879 is the belief that football clubs are about more than results; they are pillars of the community. Our mission is to honour the town’s proud footballing history while building a sustainable, inclusive, and thriving future — for the players, the fans, and the whole town.”
I was born and bred in Rhyl, and my first memories of the football club go right back to school days in the early 1980s. Back then, it was my circle of friends who really pulled me in — everyone was talking about Rhyl, and I eventually went to a game. From there, I was hooked.
Although I was always a fan, my career often took me around the country, which meant I supported the club from afar. Only in recent years, as my work became more locally based, was I able to get properly involved. My first step into the club was thanks to LinkedIn: the former Managing
Director reached out after noticing I was following Rhyl closely. We had a coffee, and I started attending board meetings as an observer, offering feedback and insight. That was around 2018.
Not long after, the MD decided to step away and the chairman approached me to take on the MD role, and I decided to give it a go. I’ve always approached things with a business mindset rather than just a fan’s passion, and it was clear that the old club was struggling, operating hand-to-mouth with serious financial risks.
By early 2020, those risks came to a head — we had barely two home games in three months, and then Covid hit. Ultimately, I, the chairman, and the team had to make the hard decision to wind the club up. But the story didn’t end there.
During the pandemic, local supporters approached me and Tom Jameson, who had been leading the women’s and girls’ teams, to ask if we’d
consider starting a new club. Over countless Zoom calls and with a blank sheet of paper, Tom and I laid the foundations for CPD Rhyl 1879. He became chairman, I took the MD role, and we became the founding directors.
From the start, we built everything on a five-year plan with the community at its heart. One of our top priorities was securing ownership of the stadium. Back then, we were paying £2,000 a month in rent to a private landlord — a risky position if we wanted longterm stability. Our proudest achievement so far hasn’t just been on the pitch; it’s that we were able to purchase the ground, securing it for the community’s use far into the future.
On the footballing side, we were dropped into tier four of Welsh football and won that league in our first full season. Promotion to tier three followed, and after finishing third twice, we finally topped the league this year. It wasn’t an easy road — we had a rough patch in October, lost four key games, changed management, and even lost seven first-
“We are more than just a club; we are a family that values inclusivity, teamwork, a shared love for the game, and the support we provide for our community.”
team players. But the new management turned things around, and we surged back to take the title, finishing top with a game in hand.
Looking ahead, our ambitions are clear: we want to return to the heights the former club reached, playing European football and competing at the top of Welsh football. But we will do it sustainably. Where the old club was run by supporters for supporters, Rhyl 1879 is run by business people for the community. That difference matters. We won’t chase dreams at the expense of our future or take reckless risks — we are here to build something lasting.
The community matters most. Rhyl is one of the most deprived postcodes in Wales, and football here
isn’t just about the game; it’s about providing people with a sense of belonging, purpose, and connection. After Covid, when we reopened the gates, fans told us how important the club was in their lives, providing a place to escape, to come together, and to be part of something bigger. That’s why we opened the gates for free when we secured the stadium — it was a gesture to thank the town and reaffirm our commitment.
We’ve also turned our stadium into a seven-daya-week asset, hosting local businesses, from a motorcycle training school to a pet food startup, all helping sustain the club while supporting the local economy.
STEPHEN WILLIAMS SALES DIRECTOR, HOPS & BARLEY — PROUD STADIUM SPONSOR OF CPD Y RHYL
1879 FC
When we were looking for the perfect location to build our next state-of-the-art distribution centre — to deliver drinks to the pubs, restaurants, bars, and clubs of North Wales, seven days a week, 364 days a year — Rhyl was the obvious choice. For us as a business, it placed us right at the heart of our expanding customer base. But for me personally, it stirred fond childhood memories of endless summers spent holidaying in the area.
Once the decision was made, I naturally wanted to immerse myself more deeply in the local community — and that’s how I discovered the remarkable story behind CPD Y Rhyl 1879. After meeting Adam Roche and Tom Jamieson, I was genuinely blown away by their passion, their vision, and their commitment not just to the football club but to the wider community.
It was an honour to be invited to get involved via sponsorship, which led to the renaming of the ground as The Hops & Barley Community Stadium. Including the word “community” was important to me — and I was proud to recently walk through the turnstile and see the sign: Croeso i Hops & Barley Stadiwm Cymunedol — Welcome to the Hops & Barley Community Stadium.
As a family-owned and operated business, and as a team of football fanatics, it’s been fantastic to hear our staff — even back at our Liverpool site — now talking excitedly about Rhyl’s match results alongside the big Merseyside clubs.
We’ve actually had a longstanding trading relationship with Rhyl, supplying drinks to the club and its bar for several years. But when we committed to relocating
from Holywell to Rhyl with a brand-new distribution centre, it became clear we wanted to go deeper — to be a meaningful part of the community. Rhyl is an area undergoing exciting regeneration, but it’s no secret that it faces challenges, with pockets of poverty and families on low incomes. That’s why we’re working with the club’s food bank initiatives, donating surplus or short-dated soft drinks and treats so local kids and families can enjoy a little lift.
It’s not just about the football — and that’s what impressed me most when I met Adam, Tom, and the team. While clubs like Wrexham have garnered big headlines, CPD Y Rhyl 1879 is just as passionately invested in its community, from hosting community days with free entry and face painting for the kids, to creating a welcoming, family-friendly matchday atmosphere where nobody’s a stranger.
Personally, I’ve attended matches more regularly since we became involved, and I’m always struck by the friendliness — the sense of togetherness, from the directors right through to the volunteers, bar staff, and fans. It’s the kind of place where you can stand alongside opposition supporters, share a drink, and chat about the game — and where the people next to you don’t care whether you’re the stadium sponsor or a first-time visitor; they just care that you’re there, cheering for Rhyl. What a fantastic season it has been — winning the league and earning promotion. I’d like to congratulate everyone involved: the players, the staff, the volunteers, and, most importantly, the fans who bring the club to life. It’s a privilege for Hops & Barley to be part of the journey.
Here’s to the future — and to many more successes for CPD Y Rhyl 1879, both on and off the pitch.
NORTH
NORTH
RYAN DESMOND
CLUB MEMBER
I’ve been a fan since childhood—my father was a passionate supporter of the original Rhyl FC and even served as a director. To say I caught the bug is an understatement! I was fortunate enough to travel with the former Rhyl FC to Europe, attending matches
against Skonto Riga in Latvia and Viking Stavanger in Norway. Initially starting as a fan, I became the stadium announcer, but sadly, in 2020, Rhyl FC folded due to financial difficulties during the Covid pandemic. Quickly after, two former directors, supported by the Rhyl Fans Association, formed a phoenix club from scratch—CPD Y Rhyl 1879. I volunteered as a media officer, leveraging my studies in media at college.
When CPD Y Rhyl 1879 started in 2020, we had no teams, players, or volunteers—just an ambitious five-year plan to build an inclusive, community-focused football club. Today, we have men’s, women’s, six boys’, five girls’ teams, and we’re establishing a men’s reserve team to create a pathway to first-team football. Like many clubs, managing finances to match our ambitions without compromising community services has been challenging. A significant obstacle for both Rhyl FC and CPD Y Rhyl 1879 was the costly annual rent for the privately-owned Hops & Barley Community Stadium. However, in October 2024, we successfully secured funds to purchase the stadium, bringing ownership back to the community and eliminating eviction risks.
In just five years, we’ve grown from zero to over 200 players, 50 volunteers, and soon our 15th team. Off the pitch, the stadium supports local businesses by hosting community services such as a laundrette, motorcycling lessons, pet food sales, human resources support, and
second-hand car sales. We aim to redevelop parts of the century-old stadium to reduce our environmental impact and fixed costs, prioritising new floodlights and fully accessible and femaleequality changing rooms.
From a coaching perspective, our philosophy across all teams—boys, girls, men’s, or women’s—is a front-foot, possessionbased style using wingers to create opportunities. Historically, Rhyl is renowned in Welsh football for its attacking approach and game dominance.
OUR HISTORY
Following the liquidation of Rhyl FC, former directors Adam Roche and Tom Jamieson, alongside the Rhyl Fans Association (RFA), quickly established a new club. After an online poll, fans selected CPD Y Rhyl 1879 to represent the club’s Welsh roots and its founding year. Upon advice from the Football Association of Wales, another vote solidified the name choice, and the club formally applied to join the North Wales Coast FA in tier four for the 2020–21 season.
The 2020–21 season was cancelled due to the pandemic, yet we adapted by streaming friendlies online.
Our first competitive men’s game in 2021–22 saw a 10–0 victory over Rhyl Dragons in the Welsh Cup, progressing to face Cymru Premier champions Connah’s Quay Nomads in the second round.
Both men’s and women’s teams completed their inaugural seasons unbeaten, securing league and cup promotions to tier 3 (Ardal NW League) for men and tier 2 (Adnan League) for women.
In 2020, we reached an agreement to lease the Belle Vue Stadium with an option to purchase. After four years of extensive lobbying and fundraising supported by local politicians and councillors, the purchase was made possible
through the dedicated efforts of Chairman Tom Jamieson and Managing Director Adam Roche.
Currently, excitement is high following the men’s team securing the Ardal North West league title with a game to spare after narrowly missing out in previous seasons. Our strong relationship with the Football Association of Wales enabled us to host prestigious Wales U19 fixtures against Portugal and Turkey, streamed globally from our stadium.
Notable past Rhyl FC players include fan favourite Lee Trundle, record scorer Don Spendlove with 629 goals, comedian John Bishop, and legendary Welsh goalkeeper Neville Southall.
Girls’ and women’s football is flourishing at the club, achieving impressive results and accolades that reflect their passion, skill, and teamwork. Their successes inspire future generations,
reinforcing the importance and growth of women’s football at CPD Y Rhyl 1879.
Although we currently don’t offer other forms of football, such as walking football due to limited local demand, we frequently host matches for schools, charities, and hospitals. Additionally, the club is an educational hub offering referee courses and hosting training sessions, business meetings, remembrance services, and even temporarily serving as a driving test centre.
Sponsors play a crucial role in our success and sustainability, enabling resource provision, facility improvements, and opportunities for players of all abilities. They share our vision and commitment, forming a vital part of our communityoriented journey.
CPD Y Rhyl 1879 stands out because of its strong community spirit, inclusivity, and shared passion. Our dedicated players, coaches, supporters, and volunteers create a welcoming environment that celebrates achievements and positively impacts our community. Being part of this club means belonging to something truly special, where everyone’s contribution is valued, friendships are forged, and lasting memories are created. Our passion, dedication, and deep community connection set us apart. United by teamwork, resilience, and inclusivity, we nurture talent from grassroots to competitive levels. Our proud, recently created history motivates continuous improvement and growth. The heart of our club is its people—whose pride and spirit define who we are. Whether celebrating victories or overcoming challenges, our club is a place where every contribution matters, and every moment counts.
BURY FC
North West Counties League Premier Division Champions 2024/2025
JON NEWBY FORMER PLAYER & BOARD MEMBER
I first became involved with Bury FC in 2001 when I signed as a player. Across two spells, I made over 170 appearances and proudly captained the side for a period. Returning to the club in October 2023 as an elected board member felt natural for me, having lived in Bury for over 20 years. I had closely followed the club through its challenging times and wanted to offer any support I could.
One major challenge we faced was uniting the fanbase. Winning games certainly helps, though we know it’s never guaranteed in football. Fortunately, from a football perspective, we have a manager who truly embodies what we want our club to represent, both on and off the pitch, significantly aiding this unity.
Today, Gigg Lane is a constant hive of activity. Alongside our first team, we host the women’s team,
U23s, and numerous junior teams, all contributing significantly to engaging the local community. The atmosphere at the club is fantastic, especially following our promotion and seeing a packed stadium for the final game of the season. This on-field success mirrors our progress off it, highlighted by exciting commercial partnerships with JD Sports and Eyelevel, making the future look very bright indeed.
Bury has always been deeply rooted in the community, but now, with so many junior teams based at Gigg Lane, we’re attracting an ever-growing number of visitors, creating a vibrant buzz around the club. Our school’s programme regularly engages young people, sharing both the historical legacy and current aspirations of Bury FC. Additionally, regular sponsorship days at the club offer opportunities to connect and build lasting relationships with local businesses, both existing and
potential, further solidifying our community connections.
SUE BOWEN
CLUB VOLUNTEER
My love for Bury FC began in January 1976 at my first game—a tremendous 3-2 giant-killing FA Cup win against Middlesbrough. In those early days, I attended games with my dad and school friends. Although living away from Bury limited my attendance for some years, upon my return, attending games became precious time with my dad in his later years. Both my sons are also big Bury fans, and we’ve enjoyed many games together over the last 20 years.
Until our expulsion from the Football League in August 2019, I was just a fan. That awful day inspired me to volunteer, driven by a determination to prevent such a disaster from happening again. Over the last four years, I’ve helped in planning committees, events, ticket selling, stewarding, and promoting our club’s profile and sustainability. I’ve also met remarkable people whose commitment and talent have greatly impressed me.
Initially, our biggest challenge was creating a team, navigating governance and legislation, and regaining
“I really feel that there has been an ongoing coming together of all viewpoints, particularly over the last 3 or 4 months with the culmination of that amazing day when we became champions” Sue Bowen.
Gigg Lane. Uniting two fan groups was another tough challenge, but our recent promotion showed just how effectively we’ve come together. We’re also building Junior teams and pathways to cultivate homegrown talent, as we once did in the EFL.
A fantastic FA Cup run— highlighted by a 3-2 victory over Radcliffe, three leagues above—gave us confidence early on. Although an early exit from the FA Vase was disappointing, it ultimately allowed us to focus fully on our intense league campaign.
We deeply value our community club ethos, reflected in our thriving women’s team, junior clubs, and extensive outreach with local schools. Our allweather pitch allows greater community use, including a college beginning in September. Fundraising events support local charities, reinforcing our community
focus and ensuring the club remains safeguarded from external influences.
DAVE MCNABB FIRST TEAM MANAGER
Our philosophy emphasizes possession-based football, aiming to dominate the ball with constant movement and rotations, exciting our fans. The atmosphere around the club has been brilliant lately, and winning the league before nearly 9,000 fans was incredible.
We’ve had an outstanding season overall, highlighted by a memorable FA Cup run, just missing out on reaching the first-round proper. Even more impressive was our league campaign, finishing with an unbelievable 109 points.
Bury FC is unquestionably a community club, thanks to dedicated volunteers and outreach programmes that actively involve local residents. Sponsors are critical to our sustainability, ensuring
Bury remains vibrant for many more generations.
JOHN RAFERTY ELECTED BOARD MEMBER
Born in Bury, I’ve supported the club since around 1965, experiencing many lows but also some significant highs. Historically, Bury FC competed in higher divisions, but support shifted to larger nearby clubs, making local loyalty less fashionable. Despite setbacks like our expulsion in 2019, our rebirth as a fan-led club is inspiring.
Our initial split into two groups—one forming Bury AFC and another securing Gigg Lane through collaboration with local government and benefactors—eventually merged, reuniting under Bury FC at our traditional home.
The installation of a state-of-the-art 3G pitch was transformative. Once limited to twice-weekly matches,
the ground now serves daily community activities, generating crucial revenue. Record attendances, such as the 8,719 at our final home match, reflect successful community initiatives like ‘club of the week’ and engaging local schools.
Volunteering on matchday hospitality, I’ve built strong relationships with sponsors, crucial partners whose support sustains the club’s growth. This face-to-face engagement, vital at all levels, promises a bright future for Bury FC.
TINA NEWALL
U23S SECRETARY & MATCHDAY VOLUNTEER
My first Bury experience was as a spectator in January 2022, supporting Bury AFC at Neuven Stadium. Quickly embracing matchday experiences, I befriended fellow fans who warmly welcomed me. Studying
the club’s proud history and the fan ownership model convinced me that merging the two societies was essential for bringing elite football back to Gigg Lane, prompting me to join SCBS and vote in favour.
Post-merger, I volunteered as a turnstile operator but felt I could offer more. Discussing my ambitions with Marcel de Matas led to me helping establish the U23 squad alongside Darragh O’Donavan. Despite no prior football background, my commercial experience proved valuable.
Establishing a new team was challenging, from player trials in Openshaw and Salford to handling complex player registrations, especially ensuring accuracy for BFC standards. The U23s’ inaugural season success, maintaining a 100% win record and receiving the Lancashire Football League’s Team of the Year Award, was incredibly rewarding.
Committed to strengthening player pathways, I helped initiate our new BTEC academy, partnering with Football Futures starting in September 2025. Applying lessons from launching the U23s simplified starting the U21s, who finished 8th in their first season, while our U23s are currently second and have won the Lancashire Football League Cup.
My colleagues have recently persuaded me to start playing walking football—a fun new adventure!
INFINITY FC
“Southern Combination League Division One Play-off Finalists.”
LEE STAINTON CHAIRMAN
Alright, let me paint you a picture of what it’s like at Infinity FC. My journey here has been nothing short of a rollercoaster, but one I wouldn’t trade for anything else.
I’ve been around local football all my life. Born and bred in Hampshire, this sport runs deep in my veins. It’s more than just a game; it’s a way of life. You see, I didn’t want to just sit on the board at Gosport Borough and Bognor. I wanted to do something in football independent of my dad, I grew up watching him, learning the ropes, seeing football as both a passion and a responsibility.
Infinity FC came into my life about 18 months ago, a pivotal moment when I left Fleetlands to take the reins here. We were in the Hampshire Premier League back then, with big dreams of climbing up to the Isthmian
League within a few years. It was ambitious, sure, but I thrive on challenges.
One of the first things I did was bring on board Sean Gale, a mate from my days at Gosport Borough. Sean’s not just a coach; he’s a football visionary. His knack for integrating young talent into our squad has been nothing short of remarkable. Under his leadership, we’ve transformed into a team known for our endurance and teamwork.
This season, despite its ups and downs, has been a testament to our growth. We started with financial hurdles and underestimated our youthful prowess. Sean and I had a plan, though, and slowly but surely, we turned things around. By the time Sean stepped into a coaching role, six months into our partnership, we were already seeing results.
Our community involvement is also a huge part of Infinity FC’s ethos.
We’ve launched a women’s team and are working on expanding our youth programs. It hasn’t been easy, juggling the administrative side with our on-field ambitions, but seeing the smiles on young faces at our matches makes it all worthwhile.
Looking ahead, our sights are set on more than just league promotions. We’re aiming to deepen our roots in the local schools, nurture talent from a young age, and build a legacy that extends far beyond the pitch.
For me, Infinity isn’t just a club; it’s a family. We celebrate victories together and learn from defeats, always pushing forward with resilience and determination. Being Chairman here isn’t just about making decisions; it’s about shaping the future of football in our community, honouring the legacy of those who came before us, like my dad.
So, as we wrap up this season, despite the disappointment of missing out on playoffs, I’m filled with pride. We’ve laid the groundwork for something special here at Infinity FC, and I’m excited to see where our journey takes us next.
REAL BEDFORD FC
HEAD OF MEDIA
“This truly is a special club, and I firmly believe we’re on a journey that could take us all the way to the top.”
I’ve been involved with Real Bedford FC since Peter first took over, right from the very first game. Initially, I joined as a volunteer, helping wherever I could—from managing the gate to working behind the bar. During those first two seasons, I attended nearly every match. Then, at the start of the 2024/25 season, Peter offered me the role of Head of Media on a full-time basis. I jumped at the opportunity, choosing this path instead of going to university. Since then, I’ve had the privilege of working closely with some fantastic and influential individuals, which has helped me grow both personally and professionally.
Being born and raised in Bedford, it’s incredible to be part of such an ambitious and widely recognised project. I’ve built strong connections with our loyal local supporters who attend every game, but also with our growing international fanbase from places like the USA, Zimbabwe, and Australia, who always tune into our livestreams. This is a truly special club, and I believe we’re on a journey that could take us all the way to the top.
Of course, there have been many challenges on the journey to where we are today. The biggest hurdle early on was the lack of belief in the project. Many laughed at us, calling our ambitions unrealistic. But in just three years, we’ve achieved three promotions, winning consecutive titles—
something few clubs can claim. We’ve had to face serious competition along the way, with tough rivals like Northampton Chenecks, MK Irish, and Berkhamsted pushing us all the way. Overcoming them was no small challenge, but it’s made our success all the sweeter.
This season has been another outstanding one on the pitch. We scored over 100 goals, collected more than 100 points, and lost only two matches. We hit a new
attendance record with 1,426 fans and saw huge increases in social media engagement. While our cup runs didn’t quite match our league success—we were knocked out of the FA Cup in the first round and fell in the Bedfordshire Senior Challenge Cup semi-final—the team’s hard work has shone through week after week. Our women’s team has matched the men’s achievements with remarkable success. In the 2023/24 season, they won a brilliant treble: the league, County Cup, and League Cup. This season, they’ve claimed yet another league title, overcoming strong sides like Norwich City and QPR, while losing just one league match. They also retained the County Cup with a dominant 5–0 win over Luton Town Ladies at Kenilworth Road. Now, competing in Tier 3, they’re just one promotion away from reaching the Championship. What makes this club so great is the sense of family. Many of us knew each other long before Real Bedford came to life, and that connection drives everything we do. It’s not just the staff—it’s the coaches, the players, their families, and, of course, the fans. This is a club people want to be part of, and once they’re here, they want to stay. Everyone here is equal; no one is more or less
important. That unity is what fuels our success—and it’s clearly paying off.
We’re proud to be supported by major Bitcoin sponsors, including Ledger, Iren, Galaxy (our main women’s sponsor), and Gemini (our main men’s sponsor). We made national headlines when Gemini’s founders, Cameron and Tyler Winklevoss, became
co-owners. They recently visited The Ledger Stadium for the first time and saw us secure our third consecutive league title. While some may think we’re flush with money, the reality is that all investment funds are held in Bitcoin and won’t be touched for years. We operate dayto-day using matchday revenue, merchandise, and other income streams. Our
PETER MCCORMACK CHAIRMAN
Our most ambitious goal has always been the same: to take a team from the 10th tier of English football all the way to the Premier League. Is it possible? Well, the first major milestone is reaching the EFL, which means securing six promotions. We set ourselves a ten-year target to get there, and with three promotions in three years, we might already be ahead of schedule. But reaching the EFL will take more than just on-pitch success; it will require an ambitious off-pitch project too, like building a stadium that meets EFL standards. While Rob, our manager, is best placed to talk about our coaching philosophy, I can say that no matter the level we’re playing at, Rob has always been committed to progressive, attractive football—even when conditions aren’t ideal.
Sponsors are vital to our journey because they provide the revenue we need to grow. Winning promotions means bringing in quality managers and players, which requires offering competitive wages. But as important as money is, it’s culture that ultimately wins leagues.
EMMA FIRMAN CEO
The general mood at the club right now is fantastic. We’re still celebrating our historic third consecutive league title, and everyone is soaking in the magnitude of what we’ve achieved. Securing back-to-back-to-back titles is a testament to the hard work, resilience, and unity of our players, coaching staff, and the incredible support of our fans. But while we celebrate the past, we’re also laser-focused on the future. Planning is already well underway for pre-season and the upcoming campaign. We know success doesn’t stand still—and neither will we.
ambition? The Premier League.
NEIL MCCORMACK
CLUB SECRETARY
Real Bedford FC’s mission has always been to serve and uplift the local community. We want to be a cultural hub for the town, offering pride, opportunities, and access to sport for everyone. From youth development and elite pathways to supporting physical and mental wellbeing, we use our on-field success to drive positive change. We started by connecting with local boys’ and girls’ teams, and that has now fed into creating elite youth squads and the ambition for a full academy. With help from the Bedfordshire FA, we’re also exploring community initiatives like walking and disability football, and we’re already seeing other sports like Real Bedford Netball benefit from our outreach.
Beyond football, we share space with a gym run by former Chairman Lui La Mura, offering affordable access to boxing and martial arts. We actively support local businesses, using them to help grow club facilities and operations, and we hope to become a desirable employer in Bedford through skill development and initiatives like our intern programme. Volunteers remain a vital part of our journey, and we’re always eager to welcome anyone who wants to be part of our story.
PHIL HINE
SUPPORTER & PRINCIPAL
SPONSOR: PJHCO
My journey with Real Bedford FC started through my business PJH Co. Ltd. My business started small, just me plumbing; and now we’ve grown to a multidiscipline service organisation with 6 divisions and over 50 staff. As a born and bred Bedfordian I have always been keen to give back to the community and invest in Bedford, supporting local projects; and that is where the common ground with Pete McCormack and I really became apparent. I met Pete originally by doing some work at his home many years ago, and our friendship grew from there. We are both entrepreneurial Bedfordians who share a vision for Bedford’s growth and prosperity, and a passion for our home town, and naturally over the years this has led to us working together more and more.
I have been working with Pete on various projects recently including renovating a nightclub, refurbishing a coffee shop, and also handling facilities contracts for the club. My involvement with working at the club was ultimately what led to
becoming one of the main sponsors. I really believe in what Pete and the club are building here. There’s a real sense of momentum and community spirit that is contagious. The club’s rise through three promotions in as many years is just the
beginning! I’m genuinely excited about where Real Bedford is headed. The club’s integrity and dedication are unmatched. We’re not just sponsoring the club; we’re actively contributing to its success and the community around it. What makes Real Bedford so special? It’s the people; from the management to the players, to the fans. There’s a palpable positivity and ambition that permeates everything they do. It’s infectious and makes watching their matches an exciting experience. I try to attend games whenever possible, often bringing my staff and family along. It’s not just about sponsorship; it’s about fostering local pride and engagement. Real Bedford is not just a football club; it’s a symbol of Bedford’s potential and resilience.
I’m thrilled to be featured in the magazine alongside Real Bedford. It’s an opportunity to showcase our commitment to the club and hopefully inspire more support from the local community. My hope is that this tribute on Real Bedford FC helps to elevate awareness of what we’re building here in Bedford!
FAKENHAM TOWN FC
“Our goal now is to sustain and build upon our achievements, ensuring Fakenham Town Football Club remains a place where players, parents, and the community can continue to enjoy football.”
DOUG COLMAN
CHAIRMAN
My connection with Fakenham Town Football Club began in 1975 when I was playing for a local village called Hempton.
At 15, I was approached by Brian Woodhouse, manager of Fakenham’s Under-18 side, who became a great mentor to me. Brian was truly ‘Mr. Fakenham Town’; his barbershop was the hub for football talk and kit collection. I played for the Under-18s and represented Norfolk’s Under-18s. Scouts from Ipswich showed interest, but unfortunately, a knee injury prevented me from pursuing that trial.
I went on to play for Fakenham’s first team and reserves for nearly 16 years, briefly serving as reserve team manager before stepping away due to work commitments. However, my connection was reignited
when my former teammate Neil Jarvis called, inviting my 16-year-old son—a goalkeeper at King’s Lynn—to join Fakenham as cover for their first-team keeper. This marked the start of my return journey with the club.
The following season, internal issues led to the departure of both the chairman and manager, along with the entire first-team squad. President Bill Clayton approached me to consider stepping in as chairman. Although unfamiliar with the role, I reached out to my friend Simon Barnes, former chairman at Dereham. After discussions with Bill and Nolan Keeley, our Director of Football and former manager, we decided to help rebuild the club.
We appointed Andy Cunningham, who had the challenging task of forming a new team at Step 5.
Despite his efforts, we faced relegation to Step 6. After two seasons at this level, Nolan stepped down due to family commitments. In the disrupted 2020-2021 season, we sat at the top of Division 1 North with 10 wins and one draw from 11 games when COVID halted play. Fortunately, we achieved promotion based on combined performances from the previous two seasons.
During this rebuilding period, we enjoyed remarkable FA Vase runs, reaching the fourth round two years running. A highlight was beating Hashtag United on penalties at Clipbush Park in front of over 500 spectators.
The club now has a structured pathway from our Under-13 EJA team through to our Under-18s and reserves, providing clear progression for talented players. Notably, two former EJA players, Fin Whiteley and Jude Frostick, advanced into our first team before earning professional contracts at King’s Lynn and Boston Town, respectively. We recently secured Fin’s return on loan from King’s Lynn to support our season run-in.
To achieve our current status, we restructured our
youth setup to maintain two teams per age group, one in the EJA and another in the Norfolk Combined Youth League, up to Under-16s, followed by progression into senior football.
Financially, we secured a grant for a borehole, significantly reducing our water costs for pitch irrigation. This system also supports the local bowls club, bringing many community members to our facility. Additionally, we upgraded our training lights, providing two full-sized floodlit pitches suitable for evening matches.
We have obtained full planning permission for a 30-metre extension of our clubhouse, including externally accessible toilets, essential for our goal of reaching Step 4. The atmosphere at the club is fantastic. Our first team has performed strongly, and the reserves, with an average age of just 18, finished fifth in Division 1 of the Anglian Combination. Our ladies’ and girls’ sections continue to expand, with many progressing from the Wildcats into senior teams.
We actively support local clubs and businesses by offering our facilities free of charge for meetings and events. Our primary sponsor, The Daly Group, has significantly contributed to our success over the past six years, providing kits and sponsoring the ground. Additional local businesses support us through advertising boards around the pitch.
We’re fortunate to have outstanding volunteers, including Jackie Price, our club and youth secretary and club director; Stuart Ballet, bar manager and maintenance helper; Shane Fish, kit and facilities
manager; and James Barrett, who manages media and match-day hospitality alongside others.
Our goal now is to sustain and build upon our achievements, ensuring Fakenham Town Football Club remains a place where players, parents, and the community can continue to enjoy football.
OUR HISTORY
Our club was established in 1884, playing our firstever match against Lynn Alexandria, winning 2–1. Initially, we played at Hempton Green, attracting over 2,000 spectators for a memorable Good Friday match against Holt. In 1889, we moved to Star Meadow, now residential housing, and later, in 1907, we relocated again to Baron’s Hall Lawn, another site now occupied by houses. Baron’s Hall Lawn was shared with the local cricket club and featured ‘The Shed’, providing cover and seating behind the Town End goal.
We won the Norfolk Junior Cup in the 1899–1900 season and again in 1905–06. In the
early 1900s, we joined the Norwich & District League but paused after World War I, rejoining in 1921–22. By 1935, we stepped up into the Norfolk & Suffolk League. When the league merged with the East Anglian League in 1964 to form the Anglian Combination, we started in the top division but faced relegation at the end of 1965–66. It took us five seasons to return to the top flight. In 1970–71, we secured our first Norfolk Senior Cup and have since lifted the trophy seven times, most recently in 1999 after defeating Swaffham Town. Floodlights were installed at Baron’s Hall Lawn in 1987, paving our way as founder members of the Eastern Counties League Division One in 1988. Promotion to the Premier Division in 1992 brought challenges as our ground didn’t meet the league standards, giving us three years to find a new home. Thus, in 1996, we moved to Clipbush Park on the town’s edge, officially opened with a match against Watford in July 1997, attended by over 1,100
fans. Our first match there, however, was a victorious 4–0 game against Tiptree United on 12 October 1996. Our facilities now include a 250-seater stand, a welcoming clubhouse, and covered terraces behind both goals.
NEW GROUND
NEW ADVENTURES...
After achieving Premier Division runners-up status in 1998–99, the club experienced tough times, culminating in relegation to Division One in 2003–04 after finishing bottom. In 2005–06, we lifted the Division One Knock-Out Cup but struggled again in subsequent seasons, finishing bottom in both 2008–09 and 2009–10. However, fortunes improved, and we regained promotion to the Premier Division in 2014, highlighted by reaching the Senior Cup final in 2017, though we narrowly lost 2–0 to Kings Lynn Town. Unfortunately, the rollercoaster continued as we faced relegation at the end of the 2017–18 season into the newly formed Division One North.
The 2018–19 season saw a slow start but an excellent recovery, finishing a commendable 6th with only one league defeat after Christmas. We also reached the Challenge Cup final that year, losing 1–0 to Long Melford. In 2019–20, Clipbush Park gained sponsorship from The Daly Group, becoming The Daly Group Stadium. Our strong performance placed us well for promotion, but the Covid-19 pandemic prematurely ended the season.
During 2020–21, we led the division unbeaten when Covid-19 halted play again,
though we made club history by reaching the F.A. Vase Fourth Round, losing narrowly on penalties to eventual finalists Binfield. Thankfully, our promotion to the Premier Division was confirmed in May. In 2021–22, we achieved an impressive 6th-place finish back in the Premier and reached the F.A. Vase Fourth Round again, narrowly losing to eventual winners Newport Pagnell. Additionally, we reached the Norfolk Senior Cup semifinals, where we narrowly lost 1–0 to Dereham Town.
The 2022–23 season was challenging, with key players departing, but it provided valuable senior-level experience to many young talents, helping us comfortably avoid relegation. This foundation set a positive tone for the 2023–24 season, during which the team competed strongly, and our youthful reserve side impressively finished fifth in Division 1 of the Anglian Combination.
As we progress into the 2024–25 season, we’re building on solid ground, supported by strategic improvements such as upgraded training lights, enhanced irrigation facilities, and planned clubhouse extensions necessary for Step 4 ambitions. Our growing ladies’ and girls’ sections and excellent volunteer and sponsor support ensure a vibrant and sustainable future for everyone connected to Fakenham Town Football Club.
MARTIN LAW VICE-CHAIRMAN, SUPPORTER & SPONSOR:
MARTIN LAW VANS
Football has always been a significant part of my life. From playing regularly between the ages of 15 and 29 until an injury forced me to stop, to holding a season ticket at Norwich City for many years, the game has always been close to my heart. However, in the last three years, my main involvement has shifted to Fakenham Town FC.
My earliest memories of Fakenham Town go back to watching midweek games at their old ground. Between 2016 and 2018, my employer at the time was a sponsor of the club, and that sparked my occasional attendance at matches.
About three years ago, Doug, the current chairman, approached me about becoming more actively involved, which I gladly accepted.
In my current role as Vice Chairman, my responsibilities include assisting with matchday hospitality for our sponsors, ensuring they have an enjoyable experience. During the week, I also help out with various aspects of the club’s day-to-day operations.
Last season was exceptional for Fakenham Town, both on and off the field. Significant improvements were made to the facilities, including new floodlights and the addition of another full-sized pitch. On the pitch, every team— from our senior squads right down to our youth teams— performed brilliantly.
One aspect I truly value about our club is its inclusive nature. We have men’s, women’s, youth, and even veterans’ teams, and we ensure everyone is well supported and looked after. The community aspect is massively important to us.
I became a sponsor in 2022 through my business, Martin Law Vans, and it’s been an incredibly rewarding experience. What truly makes Fakenham Town FC special is the friendliness and dedication of the many volunteers who freely give their time, sometimes entire weekends, to support local players. Being part of such a passionate and committed community is why I love supporting and sponsoring Fakenham Town FC.
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SUPPORTER & SPONSOR:
THE HOT TUB CENTRE
I’ve lived around the Fakenham area all my life until recently, so my relationship with Fakenham Town FC runs deep. It began way back in my early twenties when I was boxing. I used to train down at Holkham Beach regularly, alongside some of the club’s players. Back in those days, players like Luther Blissett were around, and although they might not have had all the talent, their fitness was extraordinary.
I’ve stayed connected with the club ever since. My son, Lewis, has been involved with Fakenham Town from the time he was eight or nine years old, playing Sunday morning football. He’s 31 now, and after spells at clubs like Norwich City, Rushden & Diamonds, and Boston United, he’s been back at Fakenham for the past eight or nine years. Lewis has great talent and is a key figure on the pitch, really driving the team’s success.
My involvement goes beyond just watching Lewis play. I help out with matchday announcing and look after hospitality. Because of my rugby background, I’ve brought a bit of rugby
culture—particularly the camaraderie, banter, and social aspect—to matchdays at Fakenham. It’s gone down really well, creating a fun and welcoming atmosphere.
What really sets Fakenham apart is the incredible sense of community. Everyone involved with the club knows each other personally. The club is run by local people, and there’s no need to look beyond the local community for talent. That’s something I deeply admire about the club. Fakenham has great facilities now, including two floodlit pitches, a growing youth program, and plans for an impressive clubhouse extension. There’s stability here because the club grows sustainably, without relying on short-term, big-money investments. I’ve seen too many clubs chase quick success only to collapse financially later on, but Fakenham is doing things right.
I’m confident that, with the foundations being laid, Fakenham Town can continue to build steadily and sustainably. I wouldn’t be surprised if in the next decade the club reaches a level similar to where King’s Lynn Town is today. But we’re not shouting about it—we’re quietly getting on with things, which is the right approach in my view.
On the pitch, the football itself is enjoyable to watch. Fakenham doesn’t resort to simply kicking long balls; they play proper football, which draws crowds consistently. We’ve had some fantastic attendances, especially during derby matches, which highlights how the local community is buying into the club’s vision.
Ultimately, what makes Fakenham Town FC special to me are the people. It’s genuinely friendly, welcoming, and fun. People like Doug Colman, a friend for 40 years who i trained with when i was boxing, an invaluable contributor and outstanding club stalwart! The atmosphere on match days, both on and off the pitch, is wonderful. It’s a brilliant place to spend time, and I’m proud to support and sponsor the club.
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A degree in Football Performance or Coaching & Performance prepares graduates to become skilled performance analysts, strength and conditioning coaches, or head coaches. These professionals play crucial roles in player development, team dynamics, and tactical strategy. Meanwhile, those specializing in Sport & Exercise Science or Football Psychology can pursue careers as sport scientists,
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ATHERTON LABURNUM ROVERS FC
“There is only one Laburnum Rovers!”
Treble Winners: League Champions, League Cup Winners & Champions Cup Winners 2024/2025
DAVID JONES
1ST
TEAM MANAGER
I first became involved at Atherton LR in the summer of 2023 as the first-team manager. After two rigorous interviews, I was delighted to receive the call from chairman Shaun offering me the role. From day one, everyone at the club has been incredibly welcoming— it’s genuinely a family club.
We’ve faced a few challenges, but that’s football! Initially, we had only a handful of players returning from the previous season, which meant recruiting many new faces. Geographically and budgetwise, it was tough in my first year because my existing contacts were based nearer to my home rather than Atherton.
Initially, some players were hesitant to join due to the club’s recent history of poor form. While everyone likes the idea of turning a club around, convincing players to take that leap was difficult. Another major challenge was losing our two strikers, Lewis Rawsthorn and Cal Hunter, who scored 60 goals between them in the 2023/24 season when we finished second. However, by changing our style of play and personnel, we overcame this and won the league the following year.
The club is thriving both on and off the pitch. We are preparing for our highest league position in 15 years, and our attendances have increased by around 80% compared to two seasons ago. Off the pitch, we recently renovated our
clubhouse and have exciting plans for new changing rooms and additional improvements to ensure the ground operates seven days a week. We also offer free season tickets to local Hag Fold residents to ensure football remains affordable and accessible.
Creating a positive and enjoyable environment at all levels, from youth teams to the first team, is vital to our success. It brings out the best in everyone, leading to improved performances, results, and development.
PAULA LORD CLUB SECRETARY & KADEN OPENSHAW, HEAD OF MEDIA
The club was formed as a junior side in 1956 and
transformed into a senior side, joining the Cheshire League in 1980. To meet league requirements, we added “Atherton” to our original name, Laburnum Rovers. After two years, we became founding members of the North West Counties Football League in 1982.
The early 1990s marked our most successful era, as Dave Morris led us to the Northern Premier League and an FA Vase semi-final. Unfortunately, we later endured a challenging decade, with relegations back to the NWCFL Division One North by 2011. The club nearly folded in 2020, but thanks to chairman Shaun Lynch and his committee, it
was saved from liquidation.
Under manager Dave Jones, the club has rediscovered success. Last season we reached the play-off semi-final, and this season we proudly completed a historic treble—League Champions, League Cup Winners, and Champions Cup Winners—marking our first trophies in over a decade. Our FA Vase run was equally memorable, progressing from 596 teams to the last 16, narrowly missing a quarterfinal tie via penalties.
The club is buzzing, with attendance figures rising by 64%, testament to our dedicated volunteers who make the club welcoming to both new and longstanding supporters. Our Ladies team, promoted from the GMWFL last season, has made an impressive impact at Step 6, securing big wins against established sides. The youth sides have also flourished: our U21s reached fifth place in the competitive North West Youth Alliance, and our U12s won both their league and the Blackpool Cup, promising an exciting future. Community engagement is at the heart of our club. We partner with local food banks during high-attendance games and involve youth teams as mascots to inspire the next generation. Sponsors remain integral to our growth, and we deeply appreciate local businesses increasingly supporting us.
Atherton Laburnum Rovers FC truly embodies a community and family spirit. We’re proud to be part of a unique, fan-built club thriving as an underdog story in modern football.
I’m from Thanet originally just five miles from Ramsgate and my connection with the club started through family. My dad, Richard, ran the club from when I was five years old, in 1987, up until he left in 2013. After he left, the club experienced a difficult period with various different owners, and by the time I stepped in again in 2019, it wasn’t in great shape. My eldest son Dillon started playing football, so I began coaching his team in 2018 due to my allegiance to Ramsgate. Realising the financial difficulties the club was facing, that’s when I decided to fully get involved again.
My youngest son, Teddy, who just turned 10, and Dillon, who’s 14, both play for Ramsgate, making it a real family affair. Initially, I reconnected with the club through the youth teams, becoming chairman of the youth section before eventually taking over the entire club. My goal from the outset was to integrate the youth and senior teams, as too often they’re seen as separate entities. This model has been incredibly successful; we’ve grown our youth section to around a thousand players, making it one of the largest in the country, and as a result, we’ve built a massive support base. Families, parents, grandparents—they watch the kids play in the morning and the senior team in the afternoon. This community approach explains why we’ve enjoyed recent successes like reaching the FA Cup second round and becoming the league champions with 109 points.
The recent success of winning the league has shown me just how special the club is—I’ve never seen such togetherness. Taking a thousand supporters to Hythe was incredible; it brought the community together, creating friendships that
extend beyond football. It’s a powerful way for everyone to disconnect from screens and bond over a shared passion.
Performance-wise, the first team has been exceptional this season, scoring around 126 goals in the league. Our manager, Ben, adopts an attacking style that resonates with our family-friendly ethos, making our matches enjoyable and attractive for families. We ensure the youth and senior teams remain connected by offering free entry to matches for youth players and their guardians and running large holiday programs providing activities and hot meals to kids in need. First-team players are actively involved in coaching youth teams, reinforcing the unity of the club.
Creating a clear pathway from youth to senior football is central to our plans. Our academy and youth teams are making impressive progress, with recent achievements like our Under-16s winning the Kent Cup. Our aim is to reach step two football and have local youth players regularly featuring at that level. We’re getting closer each year.
Reflecting on my childhood at the club, I remember the directors’ box being full but the stands empty. Today, that’s completely reversed. The stands are full, and there’s a real buzz around the club. This shift taught me that football clubs should serve their communities rather than just their committees or directors.
Looking ahead, we’re ambitious about stepping up to level three. We acknowledge the tough competition from clubs like Dartford, Dover, and potentially St Albans, but simply competing at this level feels fantastic considering where we started.
Community engagement remains central to our ethos. We deliberately maintain an open, inclusive culture that
isn’t corporate. This approach, which involves inviting everyone openly into the club rather than having exclusive spaces, has unexpectedly attracted numerous sponsors. Recently, we won the local council’s Community Impact Champion award, recognizing our profound local influence. Our supporters’ incredible loyalty—buying season tickets, replica shirts, and food and drink—directly funds a successful team. It’s a genuinely symbiotic relationship that enhances community involvement.
Ramsgate Football Club truly feels like a family. Match days aren’t just about football; they’re about connecting with people, enjoying each other’s company, and building lasting relationships. From the committee to the players and fans, the club is entirely about its people.
“Ultimately, what makes Ramsgate Football Club so special to me is the people!”
“Fan of the year” Ronnie Megrath who has MND.
HORSHAM FC
Isthmian League Champions and Sussex Senior Cup winners
Manager Dom Di Paola celebrated ten years and 500 matches in the Horsham hot seat in the best possible way, by clinching promotion to Step 2 for the first time, as well as securing a firstever league and county cup double. Football Focus caught up with some of the club’s volunteers, who are still pinching themselves at a level of success that no-one could have imagined when the club experienced eleven seasons without a home and were relegated to Step 5.
MATT JONES PRESS AND MEDIA OFFICER
I first started following the club as a boy when my dad took me, and I’ve been hooked ever since. I attended as many games as I could, even after he passed away in 2006, until we left Queen Street and moved to Worthing. Sadly, travel became impossible, and I lost touch with the club. I returned one random mid-February Saturday in 2013 and fell back in love with it, despite enduring some tough times on the pitch.
I studied sports journalism at university, and when I graduated, it coincided perfectly with our return to Horsham after a decade away. I volunteered to unify and professionalise the club’s social media presence using my degree. Since then, I’ve proudly been part of the media and marketing team.
Witnessing the club flourish over the past five years has been remarkable, making the difficult moments as fans feel completely worthwhile. The decade of homelessness saw dwindling attendances and limited local support, making success difficult. Thankfully, in 2017, we finally received council approval for our new ground. It’s now a fantastic community hub, proving they made the right decision!
Our ambitions are high,
especially concerning youth integration and expanding our women’s and girls’ football. Our club motto, ‘Proudly We Serve,’ encapsulates our inclusive coaching philosophy. The positivity is unmatched after securing our historic double and promotion. With youth teams excelling and increasing family engagement, our club thrives on a strong sense of community, making Horsham FC an incredibly special place.
CHARLIE HEMPSTEAD MATCHDAY PROGRAMME EDITOR, MATCH REPORTER AND WEDNESDAY VOLUNTEER
My first match as a sevenyear-old in 1969 was unforgettable. My passion continued through the 1970s until university life led me away from Horsham for nearly four decades. Upon returning
to Sussex in 2016, I was delighted by our brief stint in Lancing due to living just down the road.
I joined the club’s media team in 2021, becoming match reporter and eventually programme editor by 202425, bringing experience from volunteering at Plymouth Argyle. The eleven-year exile from our town was challenging, severely impacting our attendances and performances. However, the appointment of Dom Di Paola marked a turning point, igniting an impressive revival. Having our own stadium again has been transformative; the pride and emotion of finally having a place to call home is irreplaceable. Achieving promotion to our highest-ever division brings exciting new challenges, and ongoing stadium expansions will accommodate growing crowds.
Record-breaking Horsham manager, Dom Di Paola.
Our youth setup mirrors the attractive, purposeful style of the first team, indicating a promising future. The drama of clinching the league title on goal difference alongside another Senior Cup victory created unforgettable memories.
The exceptional bond within our squad, exemplified by ten players surpassing 100 appearances, contributes greatly to our success. Although we rarely have marquee signings, we have proudly nurtured talent into professional football.
Undoubtedly, this has been our best season ever. The volunteer spirit and dedication, especially evident in the Wednesday Volunteers group, truly defines our community club. Everyone here strives for excellence in everything we do, creating an incredible unity and pride both on and off the pitch.
WILL RANNER MANAGEMENT COMMITTEE
SOCIAL MEDIA AND MARKETING LEAD
I grew up around nonleague football in Yeovil and understood early on how a club can unite a community. After moving to Horsham in 2010, the club’s return in 2019 was perfectly timed to introduce my young sons to the joy of supporting local football. Management Committee chair, Ian Burlinson, invited me to apply my professional experience to the club, and I was only too pleased to help.
Initially slow, the club’s popularity surged postpandemic with improved performances. It brings me immense joy seeing Horsham colours worn proudly around town, symbolizing the deep community pride we’ve nurtured.
DAVE WARD MATCHDAY VOLUNTEER
After moving to Horsham five years ago just after the new stadium opened, I began volunteering as a steward, managing the car park every home match day. Initially a small team, we’ve grown due to increased attendances.
I’m continually amazed by the dedication of volunteers here. The effort everyone puts in, purely out of love for the club, friendship, and community, is inspiring. I wouldn’t want payment; the joy of contributing to something so meaningful is reward enough.
The recent celebrations of our achievements highlight how significantly Horsham FC unites our town. The community spirit we share is simply incredible and unparalleled.
HORSHAM FC AND SPONSORS
Formed officially in 1881, Horsham FC experienced fluctuating fortunes, dropping to the Sussex County League in 2015 before Dom Di Paola rejuvenated the club, achieving continuous improvement culminating in our historic 2024-25 Isthmian League win and promotion to the National League South for the first time.
Our six FA Cup first-round appearances and back-toback Sussex Senior Cup victories underline our rising profile. Being self-funded, sponsors play a crucial role in our sustainability, preventing reliance on a single benefactor and ensuring our growth is community-driven and secure for the future.
ATTENDANCES ARE BOOMING AT THE FUSION AVIATION COMMUNITY STADIUM !
The 2024/25 season was one of fantastic achievement. Our Isthmian Premier Division championship win sees us promoted to Step 2 and the National League South for the first time. In the cups a repeat Sussex Senior Cup victory was supported by a third FA Cup 1st Round appearance in four years and another strong FA Trophy run.
Our average league attendance at the Fusion
MARKETING SUCCESS
Management Committee
Marketing and Media lead
Will Ranner commented:
“When I became involved in the club in 2019, I could see huge potential to grow attendances. In the time the club had been homeless and away from Horsham the town’s population had grown significantly and many families
A
Aviation Community Stadium was an impressive 1,274. This represents a growth of 20% on the previous season and the graph below shows the progress of our league attendances since we opened our stadium in 2019.
In our opening season, before the Covid-19 pandemic struck, we averaged just under 600 for home league matches. In the 2024/25 season this figure was more than doubled. This is testament to our marketing efforts and community engagement work over the last few seasons.
had migrated to the area from London. We set targets for sustainably growing attendances and we’re close to achieving what we set out to do.”
“Working on a tight budget with an enthusiastic band of volunteers, it’s been important to keep things simple. The key to success has been strong branding, a regular drumbeat of advertising, our pre-season leaflet drops to 30,000 homes in the Horsham area and regular free ticket promotions to local schools.”
“Success on the pitch helps, of course, but we’ve positioned ourselves to capitalise on this success though our marketing and community engagement efforts. Our average league attendance since Christmas was 1,527. This demonstrates that we can continue to grow our full season average over the coming seasons.”
GREAT TIME TO PARTNER WITH US Horsham FC Commercial
Director
Sam Borrett commented:
“Our fast-growing attendances are very pleasing and demonstrate why Horsham FC is one of non-league football’s most exciting clubs. We offer sponsors and advertisers unmatched visibility and the opportunity to align their brands with our momentum and engage directly with our community.”
To find out more about partnering with the Hornets please contact Sam: commercial@horshamfc.co.uk
Another fantastic landmark achieved in 2024/25 was breaking into the top 50 supported non-league clubs in England playing at Step 1 to 4, in 48th position. The Hornets were the 7th best supported
club of 88 at Step 3 and our crowds were only bettered by 18 of 48 clubs in the National League North and South at Step 2. This statistic alone demonstrates why the Club should feel confident of holding our own at Step 2.
NON-LEAGUE TOP 50
In keeping with the club’s aim for excellence on and off the pitch, Horsham’s matchday programme has been voted the best in the Isthmian League for the last three years.
MOTHER & DAUGHTER
PAT JAMES AND ABIE
SWEATMAN’S RECENTLY SPOKE TO FOOTBALL FOCUS MAGAZINE ABOUT THEIR POSITIVE RELATIONSHIP WITH HORSHAM FC: LINES & JAMES LTD
I’m Pat James, and my journey with Horsham FC really started through my former business partner, John Lines. John has been deeply involved with the club for years and our connection brought Lines & James into becoming shirts sponsors back in 2013. During this time, we’ve remained loyal sponsors and seen the club through times when they weren’t doing so well and even the times without their own ground. But we believed in the club’s potential and stuck with it through the tough times. Since the arrival of long-awaited new ground, the club has grown into a fantastic community hub, with a great clubhouse and excellent facilities. Horsham really needed something like this, a focus for the community, and it’s been amazing to watch it flourish. We don’t always get to the games as much as we’d like—life is busy—we keep up with all the results, and John’s photography helps us stay connected. The
atmosphere at the matches is wonderful; the crowds have grown significantly, and the community really rallies behind the club.
What makes Horsham FC so special to us is that it’s about more than football. It’s about community spirit, inclusion, and giving young people a positive place to be on Saturdays. The club reaches all ages, from toddlers to longtime residents, and it brings people together in a way few other things can. The dedication of the volunteers, the passionate staff, and the welcoming vibe in the clubhouse make it a true community asset. The club is always expanding, especially with girls’ and women’s football, and their motto, “Proudly We Serve,”
really captures the spirit of giving back.
As owners of a local business it’s great that we have been able to be sponsors for many years, and we see the impact the club has on the town. Abie, what do you think?
Hi, I’m Abie Sweatman. Like my mum said, we’ve been connected with Horsham for a long time now. The club is inclusive, welcoming, and passionate. You see that in how everyone comes together to support not just the team but each other. It’s inspiring to see how the club grows and reaches more people—especially with women’s football expanding, which is fantastic.
I love how Horsham
FC gives young people a chance—not only to play but to be part of something bigger. The community involvement is huge, and it’s exciting to watch the club succeed after all the hard work to get the ground and facilities just right. The last game we attended was fantastic, with a real buzz and so many families and supporters there. I can’t wait to get to more games and see Horsham continue to thrive.
Together, we believe Horsham FC is a true community club with a bright future. It’s a place where passion for football meets a deep commitment to local people, families, and fans. Lines & James are proud to be part of that story.
“OUR JOURNEY WITH HORSHAM FC”
By Keith Wallace Fusion Aviation
We have been involved with Horsham FC for about a year now, and it’s been a really rewarding experience. Our company, Fusion Aviation, moved to Dunsfold Aerodrome last year, which is just outside Horsham. During the 2023/24 season, we started attending some of the games towards the end of the season and immediately liked what we saw. The facilities are first class for this level of football, and the club has a great vibe.
After meeting with the commercial team to discuss working with the club, we were offered the opportunity to become their stadium sponsor. It felt like a natural fit, so we took it on and now proudly back the Fusion Aviation Community Stadium.
I attended all but one the home games last season and several away games. We even watched Horsham play away to Chesterfield in the FA Cup 1st round as well as the Sussex Cup final at the Amex Stadium. The quality of football was excellent, and the players are a phenomenal group.
What really stands out to me about Horsham is the strong community spirit. The crowds have grown massively, with over two and a half thousand people turning up for recent games. The support from locals is incredible, and you can see how much the club means to the area.
The way the club is run is also impressive — they have a good balance between sound business sense and genuine care for the community. Football needs that mix to survive and thrive, and Horsham have that in spades. They’ve been
through tough times, like many clubs, but they’re now on an upward trajectory, moving into higher leagues and bringing the town together.
One of the best things about non-league football is how accessible it is. You can meet the players, chat with the coaches, and feel part of something real. I’ve seen how the club encourages young people to get involved, which I believe is so important. Team sports build connections, discipline, and kindness — things I remember from my own football days growing up.
Supporting Horsham isn’t just good business; it’s about giving back to a community that’s passionate and welcoming. We’re proud that Fusion Aviation can play a part in helping the club grow and bring people together through the beautiful game.
WINDSOR & ETON FC Champions!
What makes our club such a special place has to be the community element. For residents yet to experience matchday, I would genuinely say you’re missing out! Even non-football fans find warmth and enjoyment here— great food, a welcoming clubhouse, and a perfect space to connect with friends within the community.
MARK COOPER CO-OWNER AND CHAIRMAN OF THE SENIOR SECTION
We set Windsor & Eton FC up two years ago. We have a 25year lease from our landlords, the Crown Estate, and our journey started in the Thames Valley Premier League (step 7). Our management team put together a team from scratch in June 2023 and did fantastically well to achieve promotion in their first season. This season, we
were placed in the Combined Counties Division One and have just been crowned champions of the division, winning it by more than 10 points! My position in the club is co-owner and senior club chairman.
The joint owners of the club include our youth section, and our main focus over the next couple of years is delivering a 3G pitch at Stag Meadow. This will allow all of our many teams to
play on the main pitch and establish the football club as a true community hub. We’re also committed to enhancing facilities to create a better experience for supporters and players alike.
We have a clear senior and youth coaching philosophy at the club—we want to enhance talent, always maintaining an ethos of inclusion and ensuring it’s enjoyable for everyone involved.
The original Windsor & Eton Football Club was formed in 1892 by a merger of Windsor Phoenix and Windsor St. Albans and had played at Stag Meadow since 1911. They enjoyed a proud history, including several notable FA Cup runs until financial difficulties led to its closure in 2011.
The new Windsor & Eton Football Club was established in 2023 as a Community Interest Company, explicitly set up to serve and benefit the local community. Starting from near the bottom of the football pyramid, we’ve leveraged volunteer support,
community engagement, and dedicated management. Our men’s team achieved back-to-back promotions and reached the last 16 of the FA Vase, while our women’s team incredibly won their league in their debut season.
The atmosphere around the club right now is fantastic! All three senior teams (men’s, women’s, and vets) have won their leagues, a unique achievement we’re enthusiastically celebrating.
Though we are only two years old as a new entity, we proudly acknowledge the rich legacy of the original Windsor & Eton FC. In their later years, they featured well-known figures such as former Blackburn striker Simon Garner, former Wycombe, Swindon, Norwich, and Stoke striker Keith Scott as manager, and former Dundee United midfielder Morgaro Gomis. Off the pitch, they boasted Barry Davies, the former Match of the Day commentator as President, and international cricket
umpire Ian Gould as head groundsman, among others.
Our youth section is incredibly robust, comprising around 40 boys’ and girls’
teams. This year, we also introduced our women’s team, who remarkably won their league in their inaugural season!
Windsor & Eton FC is fundamentally a community club. Over a thousand fans attended our very first match, and most local children involved in football will interact with the club at some point. Our players and management team regularly host football camps during school holidays and provide coaching sessions at local schools throughout the academic year. Commercially, we are fortunate to have strong backing from local businesses, evident from the numerous advertising boards around Stag Meadow. Sponsorship is absolutely
essential to our operations, enabling facility upgrades and compliance with ground grading standards.
Windsor & Eton FC is truly more than just a football club—it’s a heartbeat of our community, bringing people together and creating lasting memories.
AFC WELWYN
Champions of Spartan South Midlands League Division One 2024/2025!
TAWHID JUNEJA CLUB FOUNDER
We aim to achieve 7 promotions in 12 years, taking us all the way to the football league. Some say we’re crazy— and perhaps we are—but this ambition will drive us, ensuring we stay focused both on and off the pitch. Steve Jobs said, “The people who are crazy enough to think they can change the world are the ones who do,” so if you think we’re crazy, we’ll take it as a compliment!
At the end of my playing career at age 40, I wanted to stay involved in football and create opportunities for local talent. Initially, I approached several local clubs to take over their operations, but the existing committees weren’t receptive to change, compelling me to start AFC Welwyn from scratch. While much tougher, starting anew allowed us to shape our own identity. Thankfully, Welwyn Garden City’s committee supported us with a ground share, giving us our initial home.
Funding is a constant challenge. Many assume our ambitious goals and talented signings are purely moneydriven, but I’m personally funding this project, making rapid success and building a sustainable infrastructure essential. My experience from two decades in nonleague football connected me with dedicated individuals like Richard James, our first manager who remains on the committee. Richard’s can-do attitude is exactly what our club needed. James Kilroy shares this ethos, and together we are making things happen.
For the 2025/26 season, we’ve moved to Potters Bar Town FC, attracted by their investment in a state-of-theart 3G pitch and upgraded facilities, aligning perfectly with our vision. The new location, closer to North London yet easily accessible from Welwyn, expands our
talent pool and sponsorship opportunities. With significant media exposure—being the 40th most viewed club channel on YouTube in 2024— we offer unique investment potential, surpassing even some Championship clubs.
Our long-term vision is building our own dedicated facility in Welwyn Garden City, modeled after Potters Bar but enhanced with a media centre supporting education and community projects, including facilities for podcasters and livestreamers. Additionally, constructing two full-size 3G pitches will significantly benefit local clubs and schools.
We’re expanding further in 2025/26 with the introduction of our Ladies team, joining our existing U15, Development, and 1st teams. We’re dedicated to providing more local boys and girls the chance to play football and will continue developing our pathways to the senior sides. Marc Cooke, leading our Development team, epitomizes our commitment, nurturing young talent for higher opportunities.
Investment in marketing and media remains pivotal, offering invaluable volunteer opportunities to local students. Two new volunteers joined us recently, eager for the upcoming season. Our U15
team performed impressively last season, finishing second in their league, while our Development squad made notable progress. The growth of these teams is integral to our strategy, creating pathways for both men and women.
JAMES KILROY CLUB MEDIA & MARKETING MANAGER
I initially met Tawhid and Lisa when filming their wedding—a surprise booking by Lisa’s sister. Ten months later, Tawhid sought my advice on football filming and social media. Two hours into our conversation, I was recruited. Two seasons later, it’s been a thrilling journey.
We’ve experienced ups and downs, like any passionate extended family. Personalities sometimes clash, but our collective desire to see AFC Welwyn succeed unifies us.
Starting from zero—no fans, no followers—we made an immediate impact by boldly stating our football league ambitions, attracting both attention and criticism. However, we stayed focused, concentrating only on what we could control.
Everyone at AFC Welwyn feels incredibly positive after our recent successes. Our team spirit and dedication extend from the turnstiles and burger van to media, coaching staff, and players. We’ve created something special very quickly—it’s genuinely infectious.
Our short history already boasts remarkable achievements. Formed in May 2023, our first team won
the Spartan South Midlands League Division 2 title and the Division 2 Cup in our debut season. This year, we’ve earned automatic promotion by winning Division 1. Our Development team also improved significantly, and our U14 team excelled, finishing second in their league.
Notably, young talent like Will McNeill has already progressed to higher leagues, highlighting our success in player development. Our strong early connections, including Welwyn Garden City and Hendon FC, have been instrumental, and we’re confident our new partnership with Potters Bar Town FC will be mutually beneficial.
AFC Welwyn is communityfocused, providing local playing opportunities and media exposure for volunteers. While still young, we eagerly seek deeper local community involvement. Our ambitious long-term goal remains providing first-class facilities in Welwyn Garden City. We actively seek sponsorship partners who share our vision, offering unique marketing opportunities thanks to our impressive online reach, with videos already surpassing 25 million views.
The winning mentality permeates every part of our club, making AFC Welwyn a special place to be involved.
BRADFORD TOWN FC
Western League Division One Play-Off Winners 2024/25
Eight miles south of Bath along the Avon Valley lies the picturesque Wiltshire town of Bradford on Avon, home to Bradford Town F.C.
Formed in 1992, the club has just regained Step 5 status after a two year absence following a comprehensive 5-0 play-off final win at Wiltshire rivals Calne Town and now prepare for life in the Jewson Western League Premier Division.
KURTIS BETTERIDGE
HEAD OF MARKETING
“A fantastic club to be part of due to the connection we have with the fans and the town itself. Without that, there is no club really.”
I began my involvement with Bradford Town F.C. in September 2022. I had just completed University and was looking for a marketing position in the football industry. I am fortunate enough to be friends with Harry Rutty who was the captain at the time, and he let me know that Bradford Town were looking to boost their media offering, and I jumped at the chance!
We definitely consider ourselves a community club. Our ground hosts a number of community-focused activities such as a ‘Men’s Shed’, Avon Table Tennis
Club, Spencer Moulton Bowls Club and facilities for charity and exhibition matches to take place. As well as being home to our Reserve team, we are also hosting a Wiltshire Over 55s vs England Over 60s match in late-May which is looking to be a very exciting day. The club also encompasses Bradford Town Youth FC who provide teams across ages 5-18.
During my time at the club I have seen a lot, from managerial changes to relegation and now this fantastic promotion back to Step 5 of the non-league system so it has been a rollercoaster, but a good one! In that time I’ve worked my way up in terms of my role, starting with solely social media coverage of games, which then progressed to the graphics, media content, and responsibilities within the team closer to the pitch too. I am now in a position where I can look to make a difference with the marketing side of the club. I love the football club, the fans are amazing and unrivalled at this level which has definitely played its part this season.
The club officers and committee are totally devoted to driving the club forward. It’s no secret that there have been challenges in recent
times. In the winter of 2022, the club almost ceased to exist due to financial challenges. This, coupled with the looming relegation which was on the horizon, could have been the end if not navigated correctly.
The management team changed around this time, which brought a significant playing squad change too, and our only goal was to stabilise the club following the end of the 2022/23 campaign. The 2023/24 season was our first back in the Western League, albeit having been relegated to Division One. This however enabled the club to play games closer to home, reduced our travelling expenses, and also improved our gate numbers due to the local derbies being more frequent. This continued into last season where we improved our average gate attendance by 30 year-on year.
The 2023/24 season brought a few surprises with our manager leaving due to personal circumstances, leading to our current manager Chris Carr taking on the role. In the pre-season of 2024/25, we grew our management team to better support the playing squad. We brought in Sara Hillman as our Physio who has been crucial in keeping the team
fit and firing across the whole campaign.
We also recruited the talented coach Nathan Lewis Farquharson and Nick Hoskins-Jones to develop a playing style which has led to our success this season. Off the field, further efforts in preparation for life in the higher divisions have also played a part in ensuring we are ready to return to Step 5.
Keeping our pitch in the best condition possible has played a big role in keeping momentum going during the season. We achieved strong unbeaten runs across the campaign which were aided significantly by our home ground being available, with only one postponed match which was due to frozen ground.
There are always plans in place to grow and develop at the club. In the last couple of years, a major renovation project has taken place in the clubhouse with our main hall being redeveloped. With new flooring, roofing, and furniture, we are able to have
a space to be proud of post match, which also enables us to hold band nights and other events throughout the season.
We are also looking to improve our pitchside facilities at Trowbridge Road, by installing a new stand at ‘The Town End’ of the ground for spectators to have shelter behind the goal.
We also plan to improve our changing rooms and management office which will be completed in the next couple of years to put us in an even greater position to challenge for further promotions.
NATHAN LEWIS FARQUARSON FORMER FIRST TEAM COACH
“We have a coaching philosophy at the club which encapsulates five key principles which we take into every game. We continuously look to play, and to play forwards, with trust in our players and teammates on the ball. We look to execute the individual strengths of each
player, while running with intensity to help the team. It’s all about teamwork as by playing together, everybody achieves more. We ask the team to compete for everything and work for one another, this way you unlock that mentality to keep going as one unit.”
OUR HISTORY
Early Years
Bradford Town FC was founded in 1992 by Les and Pat Stevens, joining Division Two of the Wiltshire League where home matches were first played at St Laurence School at the top of the town.
Following a short spell at Trowbridge Town’s old Frome Road ground the club came home to Bradford in 1996 moving into Trowbridge Road. The ground was established in 1912 as the sports and social club home of rubber manufacturer Spencer Moulton who’s factories dominated the town until the early 1990s.
League Successes
Bradford Town achieved early success in the Wiltshire Leagues before Mark Hodkinson guided the team to finishing runners up in the Premier Division in 2006, securing a place in the Western League Division One. Floodlights were installed for the first time in the 2008/09 season which saw the club post a 3rd place league finish. A 100-seat main stand was erected the following year and in 2014 the club duly won the Division One title by 13 points under Paul Shanley.
Cup Campaigns
The club has reached the FA Vase 5th round on three occasions and recorded a record attendance of 621 for a 4th Round victory over neighbours Melksham Town in 2016. The following year, after three victories in the FA Cup, they were edged out 3-2 by Chippenham Town in the 2nd Qualifying Round –our best performance in the FA Cup to date. 2021 saw
Bradford Town F.C. claim their first trophy since 2014 after defeating a much fancied Bridgwater Town side 1-0 at Street FC to lift the Les Phillips Cup.
Club Restructuring
The club would be transferred across to play the 202122 season in the Hellenic League Premier Division for the first time, posting a 6th place finish. After an exodus of management and squad members following a restructuring of the club,
relegation hit in 2022/2023. Chris Carr took charge in the 2023/24 season leading the club to a solid 8th place finish back in the Western League Division One. The 2024/25 season culminated with the club earning its place back to Step 5 via the play-offs.
The mood at the club is very positive and one of determination. With our promotion, we made sure to celebrate the right way by inviting all our supporters to join us at our presentation
evening to reflect on a fantastic campaign. We now look ahead to next season, and focus on the improvements we want to make before our first home game.
There is a lot of optimism around the town as we look to harness the feeling from the end of the season and use it to motivate one another for our ambitions in 2025/26.
CHRIS CARR FIRST TEAM MANAGER
“It’s been a great season in the league as we achieved
our goal of promotion, despite the late dip in form that probably cost us a proper shot at the title. We had the longest unbeaten run this season of 17 games, which that followed a run of 11 unbeaten at the start.
It was great to make the playoffs on the final day of the season and then finished the job with two brilliant performances, most notably the final vs Calne Town with a Western League record playoff win. We brought Nathan Lewis Farquharson in as a coach last summer and he wanted to play a possession based game. We managed to get the lads to buy into it and it paid off massively, we played some great football this season pulling plaudits from opposition mangers, players, and fans.”
We are always open to discussions with local businesses too as we look to grow together with sponsors and provide them with opportunities to be part of the journey. Our sponsors have, and continue to be, vital to our football club. Their support enables us to compete and grow, while also being able to provide them with a platform to promote their business. We consider our sponsors as part of the club and always look to grow our relationships with them. We hold sponsor days across the season to repay our gratitude and provide hospitality at home matches where they can see the team in action. These days are also a fantastic opportunity for local businesses to network together and grow themselves.
Bradford Town F.C. is a fantastic club to be part of due to the connection we have with the fans and the town itself. Without that, there is no club really. There’s a connection which is shared all throughout the football club, from the supporters and players to the management team and club committee, everyone is pulling in the same direction to achieve what is best for the club. That is why the club is so great and one which has a very bright future.
STEVE HARVEY SUPPORTER & MAIN SPONSOR: MOULTON BICYCLE COMPANY
I used to live in Bradford, but now I’m based in Bath, about a 30-minute bike ride away. Bradford Town FC initially reached out to me because they wanted our company, Moulton Bicycles, as a local manufacturer, to sponsor their under-11 youth team for a summer football tournament in Barcelona. Knowing they’d visit Camp Nou and play several matches there, I thought it was a great idea. Some really nice shirts were put together, and there’s a wonderful photo of the kids proudly standing in the Camp Nou in their kits.
After this initial support, Tim from the club approached me again, asking if we’d consider sponsoring the senior team. At first, I wasn’t sure if my management would approve because the youth sponsorship had been something we’d done as a one-off. However, my immediate line manager at the time saw merit in the idea and agreed to give it a go, especially since the club plays on the Moulton Spencer ground—a site with historical ties to the local rubber industry and community.
What began as a cautious toe-in-the-water sponsorship quickly grew into something much deeper. It developed into a friendship between Tim and myself, extending beyond mere business. Each year, we’d redesign the shirts, moving the previous
ones to the reserves, keeping everything fresh and appealing. It became very personal for me, and despite briefly debating between football and rugby sponsorships—we’d been supporting a local rugby club where one of our young brazers played - we kept up our commitment to Bradford Town FC. And eight years later, we’re still here!
Our bikes don’t really sell locally—they’re a little expensive and much sought after overseas, primarily being exported to the Far East— so the sponsorship was purely altruistic, reflecting community spirit rather than marketing strategy. Our historic factory, set in converted Jacobean farm buildings, adds a photogenic charm that’s much appreciated internationally.
Interestingly, funding for the sponsorship has often come creatively from our
secondhand bike market. Occasionally, I’d identify a buyer and seller, negotiate a price beneficial to both, and any margin would directly fund the football shirts. This arrangement was transparent and enthusiastically supported by everyone involved; people often willingly contributed extra to support the club. This year marked our last sponsoring the club, and with the team getting promoted it’s made for a dream send off!
Bradford Town FC embodies everything wonderful about community spirit—genuine, kind-hearted people coming together. If the club disappeared, it would leave a huge gap in the community. My connection with Tim and the people at the club has made the experience really special, something way beyond business interests alone.
Best of luck lads!
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