Football Focus Magazine

Did you know that by taking a policy out through us, you can support your club at the same time?

Please get in touch to find out more.

Sports, Personal & Commercial Insurance

Whether you love having a mid-week kick around with your friends, scoring the winning try in a wet and windy game of rugby or a round of golf in the sunshine, it takes passion and commitment to play sport at any level.

As an Amateur or Semi-Professional sportsperson, sustaining an injury or having an accident whilst playing sports could mean more than you think including being unable to work, affecting your income and ultimately affecting any loved ones you support.

Club

Running your own Sports Club or Academy is a full time job and worrying about risks and disruptions can add unnecessary stress. Sport Club Insurance is designed to protect against a range of unique risks - built bespoke for your needs, allowing your cover to not only protect you and your building but your staff, customers and facility equipment all in one single policy.

Speak to one of our specialist advisors to get bespoke cover, and support and advice for a range of sports organisations and activities - including sports halls, courts and pitches, fitness suites and more.

Welcome

Anew day and a new season!

Welcome to the latest edition of Football Focus Magazine!

All our clubs in this issue have either finished last season as champions of their respective leagues or have been promoted. Many have won various honours, accolades and cups as well.

Its fair to say that success on the pitch doesn`t happen on its own accord and each club that enjoys success has a plethora of unsung heroes who all complete the magic puzzle and unite behind their club. Parents, coaches, committee, sponsors, groundsman etc etc.

Without you, football would not be available and football means long friendships, health, sadness, joy and memories of that great diving header we scored or witnessed back in 1995 or 2002 or 2023.

Hope you enjoy this issue and if your club would like to be considered for a future edition please drop me an email: martin@footballfocusmag.com.

Best wishes to everyone for the rest of the 2023/2024 campaign!

Yours in Football

Meet theTeam

PUBLISHING

Morgan bernard Ltd

36 Cedar Crescent Gateshead

Tyne & Wear

NE9 6ES

PRINTING

Bang On Print

Arch 17 Forth Goods Yard, Newcastle upon Tyne NE1 3PG www.bangonprint.co.uk

MEDIA DIRECTOR

Martin Morgan

E: martin@footballfocusmag.com

FINANCE COORDINATOR

Michelle McGregor

E: accounts@sportip.biz

PHOTOGRAPHY COORDINATOR

Maria Kearney

E: copy@sportip.biz

EDITORIAL COORDINATOR

Jane Fuerte

E: editorial@footballfocusmag.com

HEAD OF MAGAZINE DESIGN

Rowena Wilson

E: rowenawilsondesign@gmail.com

SENIOR DESIGNER

Colin Mitchell

E: colin_mitchell@live.co.uk

Martin Morgan

About us

Based in the North East of England, we produce four UK magazines as well as an Austalia/NZ version of the UK. Our five titles are Cricket Club, Football Focus, Rugby Club, Sport in Profile and Sport in Profile ANZ.

Football Focus Magazine is committed to providing the footballing world with a platform from which to share ideas, best practice and information with content provided by many leading figures within the industry including Chairman, CEO’s, Presidents and Managers of some of the top sporting establishments worldwide.

A major part of what we do is providing grassroots clubs with a chance to highlight the work they are carrying out with focus on community involvement, youth development, sound financial planning and sporting success. The crucial role that these establishments play in the industry cannot be overstated and they regularly provide stories of astounding commitment, dedication and integrity.

Football FOCUS

“Feel Like you belong!”

64

COVENTRY SPHINX FC

“Over the years It has been an honour and privilege to see our club develop and grow into what it has become today.”

44 SHOREHAM FC

HPFL Senior Division Champions and Treble Winners!

76

MACCLESFIELD FC “...Are back!”

86

SHOREHAM FC

“Champions 2022/2023 Season… the longest unbeaten team in the country from the Premier League down to Step 6!”

Treble-winning AFC Totton announce collaboration with technology giant Garmin

Leading global fitness brand backs local community team with sponsorship and data insights

well as receive feedback on injuries, all in one system.

Jimmy Ball, the manager behind the club’s most successful campaign in its 137-year history is understandably enthusiastic about the new brand collaboration: “I’m thrilled that Garmin have decided to enter into this agreement with us. It’s consistent with my objective of making AFC Totton the most professional non-league football club in the country and for a global brand like Garmin to bring their expertise in performance to our table is fantastic.

“All the players are ambitious and want to succeed in the game, so they are all fully onboard with this programme. They understand that any marginal gains we can win by taking this in-depth data approach will bring its own rewards on the pitch,” explains boss Jimmy Ball.

this season.

Steve Brookwell AFC Totton’s CEO said: “This deal represents a massive boost for the football club within the surrounding community and nationally. We’ve recently seen the rapper Stormzy and Wilfried Zaha invest in Croydon FC, who are currently a few levels below us in the English football pyramid, and of course Ryan Reynolds and Rob McElhenney have reignited the passion of the Wrexham fans with their exciting involvement at the Racecourse Ground.

AFC Totton have announced a sponsorship agreement with technology giant Garmin. The English semi-professional football club, managed by the son of the late World Cup-winning midfielder Alan Ball, plan to explore and showcase the potential of fitness wearables and coaching capabilities to deliver performance gains on the pitch.

The Hampshire town of Totton plays host to both Garmin’s European headquarters and AFC Totton’s ‘Stags’ making this a truly local collaboration.

On top of Garmin being the official shirt sponsor, the players will also be trialling the lightweight Forerunner® 965 smartwatch, as well as the HRM-ProTM Plus chest strap heartrate monitor. The team will wear the smartwatch 24/7, including while they sleep, so it can collect data on their heart rates, recovery, and sleeping patterns. The heartrate monitor will provide more detailed and accurate information during matches and training sessions.

Each player will have their own Garmin ConnectTM

account from which they can upload data at the end of each training session directly to the Garmin ClipboardTM app. Dave Penny, Sports Therapist, and the team of sports and fitness coaches can access and analyse the Clipboard information to identify the players’ progress and ascertain their training needs for the days and weeks ahead. The coaches can set up the designated workouts for each individual or team, and monitor their adherence to the training goals, as

Jack Fairbrother, Head of Marketing at Garmin UK and Ireland, said: “We are incredibly proud to announce our support for AFC Totton. Our European headquarters is a stone’s throw from the club, so we’re delighted to be investing in our local community.

Jimmy and his team share our passion for innovation and excellence. We look forward to seeing our products help inform how the players train, recover and ultimately improve their performances on the pitch,

“It is our belief that working with Garmin will enable us to gain the kind of fair advantage that excellence in fitness and preparation can bring to match-day performances on the pitch, to help Jimmy Ball continue to take the team in a positive direction whilst playing entertaining, attacking football that our fans will thoroughly enjoy watching and can rightly be proud of.”

Monitoring physiological factors, like heart rate variability of individual players, will enable the coaching team to make informed decisions as to who is fit and ready to play, and who might need longer to rest and recover.

“Different players will recover at different rates, so a one-size fits all approach to training isn’t going to get the best out of everyone at once, which you need

to do if you’re going to be consistently successful as a team,” Dave begins.

“Being able to analyse data for all the players via the Clipboard app will help us to identify the biomechanical and other training needs of all the players throughout the squad and assign them personalised workouts direct to their watch. This gives us a true 360-degree approach to their training and recovery needs.”

Periodisation is the process of manipulating training goals and processes throughout the season. It utilises a cyclical method of incrementally increasing physical workloads to ease athletes into periods of intense exertion and back down to lower levels, so they can rest, relax and recover. By using a combination of strength and cardio protocols, the coaches have been able to maximise performance and reduce the instances of soft tissue injury, which led to 95% of players being available for selection every week with key personnel frequently fit and ready to play throughout last season.

“The hard data gathered by Garmin’s products takes that to another level again, by providing objective measurements with which to monitor progress and

adjust the players’ individual training programmes, accordingly,” continues Dave. “This evidence-led approach provides a firm foundation to confidently make decisions about an individual’s recommended next steps, as they continue to build up for match day or come down for a period of rest. The technology quantifies what we do and allows us to make the most informed decision for training and recovery needs for each player.”

Jimmy continues: “We used to do things like this at the professional clubs I worked at, such as Forest Green Rovers, Stoke City and Stevenage. But the

technology has moved on so much in just a few short years and we’re in the very fortunate position now to benefit from Garmin’s undoubted expertise.

“As ever, how well these things work is largely down to the players and how much they commit to doing what’s required of them and they have all been first class. They can see how much we’re striving to take this club forward and lift it up the divisions. They know this is the place to be now, and we are aware that players from elsewhere are casting an envious eye on what we’re doing. It gives us every opportunity to reach our potential.”

Propelled by the goals of former Luton Town and Wycombe Wanderers striker Scott Rendell and young winger Ethan Taylor, and the meanest defence in the division, The Stags stormed to the 2022/23 Southern League Division One South title, before claiming the Champion of Champions Super Cup against their Division One Central counterparts, Berkhamsted. A three-nil victory over their arch-rivals Sholing at Southampton FC’s St. Mary’s Stadium in May saw AFC Totton also retain the Southampton Senior Cup on their way to completing a remarkable treble trophy haul.

Now, having just completed their pre-season campaign for 2023/24, Totton are ready to mount a challenge upon the Southern League Premier Division South at Step 3 of English football’s nonleague pyramid, as part of their stated ambition to join the game’s professional ranks and bring EFL League Two football to their Snows Stadium home.

While Garmin is a global brand, the company values its community, and they are keen to work with a club that is already making a significant positive impact across many demographics within the local area. The ideal strategic relationship was right on their doorstep.

AFC Totton are nicknamed The Stags due to their proximity to the New Forest. In addition to the flagship first team, the club is home to a youth academy, a women’s team and an additional 33+ youth teams. They also host walking football for senior citizens and pan disability football. The club’s premises are available to hire as a venue for parties and private functions, training seminars and business meetings, making it a significant community hub for the residents of Totton and beyond.

The first team play competitive league matches on Saturday afternoons and train on Tuesday and Thursday evenings, although semi-regular midweek games – particularly in cup competitions and in the second half of the season to fulfil fixtures previously postponed due to bad weather – mean the fixture list is constantly subject to late change. Consequently, the training needs of individual players to prepare them to be at their best on match day are also in constant flux.

AFC Totton

STEPHEN SNOW

CLUB CHAIRMAN

AS A FAN OF AFC TOTTON, I have been delighted with the success that Jimmy Ball’s team have been able to achieve on the pitch over the last two years. But as Chairman of the football club, I take as much pride and satisfaction from the progress we are making off the field in terms of strengthening our ties with the local community and presenting the Snows Stadium as a hub for social activity and engagement.

The Board of Directors, thanks in no small part to the ongoing hard work of a dedicated team of staff and volunteers, have managed to transform the local reputation of the club from being one for “Members Only” to one that now actively encourages and welcomes everyone to visit us and take part in the many activities – footballing and otherwise – that we host throughout the year.

We are delighted to be featured in FootballFocusMagazine, and to have you shine a light on what has been achieved at this football club already and the big plans we have for its future. The success of the first team has no doubt been integral to turning people’s eyes and ears in our direction

but I am pleased to say that far more often than not, when people choose to come and experience the atmosphere of our football club for themselves, they find it to be a place and a community of which they want to become a part.

In terms of football, we have regular Saturday morning sessions for very young children, organised in a safe environment that caters to the boisterously outgoing and the slightly more nervous children, alike.

Those sessions provide a gateway into the club’s youth set-up, which includes more than 30 teams at various age groups. We introduced both a Women’s team and a Girls’ U10s last season, and we are proactively developing our presence within girls’ football through regular Wednesday night Weetabix Wildcats sessions, that have proved immensely popular. And we regularly host half-term summer camps for boys and girls, whether they be devoted to football or tailored around more of a multi-sports theme.

We have weekly Pan Disability football and two sessions each week for our Walking footballers, which provide fantastic opportunities for vulnerable people and those of advancing years to remain physically and socially active.

Hosting Southampton FC Women’s matches helped to raise our profile, and we are pleased to welcome the Saints Men’s U21s for their Premier League 2 and Premier League International Cup campaigns this season.

Off the pitch, the facilities at the Snows Stadium are among the town’s best for hosting parties, private functions, exhibitions and corporate events, with three event rooms of varying sizes and capacities, and a supremely talented Events Manager and Kitchen Staff who always go the extra mile to make every occasion a memorable one – for all the right reasons! A weekly Bingo night and the occasional live concert keep the events line-up populated, varied and exciting, all-year long.

Our annual Bonfire Night and Fireworks display draws

“We are Stronger Together. Come On, You Stags!”

crowds to the stadium in their thousands, and we regularly host children’s fun days and charity events that bring people together from across the whole community. During the COVID-19 pandemic, our premises became the largest vaccination site in Totton.

The town of Totton is about to undergo something of an expansion. A new supermarket is currently under construction right next to our Snows Stadium site, and there are plans for new housing in the area immediately beyond that, encroaching upon the edge of the New Forest. We may be a non-league football club with ambitions of making the big time but everything we do is rooted in our desire to be a prominent force for good that serves everyone in the local community as it is today, and as it will become over the next several years.

Everybody is welcome at our club. We are stronger together.

JIMMY BALL’S, 1ST TEAM MANAGER. “ FOR ME, BEING BRAVE IN YOUR APPROACH TO THE GAME IS THE KEY.” AFC TOTTON MANAGER

Jimmy Ball spoke recently about his own footballing philosophy and how he has brought it to bear during his almost 18 months to date with the club.

During a Monday afternoon chat in the club’s boardroom, which also doubles as an office throughout the working week, the former Forest Green Rovers boss outlined the three pillars of his core approach to coaching.

“In everything that we do I’m looking for the players, and to myself as the head of the coaching team and the one who ultimately has to make decisions, to be brave, to be effective and to be versatile,” he explained.

“The bravery relates to our playing style; our willingness to try and keep the ball in tight areas and by executing our possession-based style, to play our way out of trouble and into promising situations at the attacking end of the pitch. Effectiveness means playing for a positive outcome; working hard to affect changes that help us to win as many of the small contests over the course of the 90 minutes as we can and then to recognise when we have the opportunity to hurt the opposition with a shot or an attacking move. And being versatile enables us to deal with any particular problems the opposition might pose, including adapting when they make changes, if necessary. We have our own preferred way

ACADEMY FOOTBALL PRO:DIRECT ACADEMY

SOUTHAMPTON is delivered at AFC Totton in partnership with SCL Education & Training. It is a full-time education and football programme for 16- to-19year-old boys.

The Academy is headed up by First Team Manager Jimmy Ball, who has extensive experience within academy set-ups from his time working at clubs such as Stoke City and Forest Green Rovers. Jimmy is heavily involved in the planning, structure and delivery of the football side of the programme, working closely with the head coach to ensure talented players are given the opportunities to develop.

The Head Coach is first team centre-forward. The player affectionately known as The Sunburnt Assassin has 20 years’ experience in the professional game, having represented Peterborough United, Wycombe Wanderers and Luton Town among several other clubs. Scott is a highly-skilled and knowledgeable coach. This week, he is coaching a team in Gothenburg, Sweden at the prestigious Gothia Cup youth tournament.

Hannah Hood from SCL Education is the Education

of playing but sometimes you have to find different ways to be successful, and our ability to do that when it mattered was one of the aspects of our game that pleased me most about last season.”

Asked how effectively he feels his messages have been absorbed by his first team squad, the 47-year-old was in the enviable position of being able to point to the three trophies that his players secured last season, displayed on the opposite side of the boardroom; the Southern League Division One South Shield, the Champion of Champions trophy and the Southampton Senior Cup, which Ball also won at the tail end of the 2021/22 season having agreed to take the managerial

Lead. She has been with the Academy since its launch in September 2021. Her qualifications include a BSc in Sports Science and a Postgraduate Certificate in Education (PGCE), and she is currently undertaking a MSc in Sports Performance, all of which ensures that she brings a wealth of knowledge in both education and sport.

The Academy, which runs at the Snows Stadium complex in alignment with the standard local academic year, has been developing encouragingly year-on-year, with the 2023 intake anticipated to be the most successful to date, leading to an expansion of the teaching and coaching teams. This summer has seen the original intake from September 2021 progress in their chosen pathways.

The staff are very proud of the students’ achievements and the opportunities that the programme has made available to them. To name a few, Owen Pelham has become a familiar face in the AFC Totton first team squad, after excelling with his education to achieve a D* profile. He recently resigned with the club and will be hoping to play a part as the team compete in the Southern League Premier Division

hotseat in March 2022.

“I think the proof is in the pudding. People could see for themselves what exciting, attractive, attacking football we played last year, and the fantastic results it earned for us during a wonderful, successful season for the club. We were the top scorers in the division with 88 goals while also maintaining the tightest defence. We had to overcome some challenges and beat some very good teams along the way, in both league and cup, but we fully expected that. Nobody ever said it was going to be easy and we were never under any illusions that it would take anything but a lot of dedication and hard work to be successful.

South this season. Diego Ramos Santarelli was another successful student in the classroom who also established himself as a player for Totton and Eling.

As previously reported in the Matchday Programme, Diego has been presented with a magnificent opportunity to study at Blinn College in Texas, USA on a scholarship. He is due to depart the UK before the end of July and everyone at the club wishes Diego well. Nathan Ewins, a central defender who made the lengthy daily commute from Chichester for almost 18 months, achieved a DDD profile and accepted an offer to study at the University of Chichester from September 2023.

The team are excited and passionate in the development of the academy this year and the new cohort we have incoming for September 2023. We still have a few spaces left; if you have finished school and you are undecided on your Further Education or college pathway, please feel free to email me at hannah.hood@wearescl.co.uk for more information.

Academy – Contact: Hannah Hood, hannah. hood@wearescl.co.uk & Scott Rendell, scottrendell09@ gmail.com

“For me, being brave in your approach to the game is the key. I once made the mistake while at Forest Green Rovers of taking a safe option and we lost the game. In that situation, you end up with two regrets, because you failed twice; you made the wrong decision and then you didn’t execute properly. If you’re prepared to take the brave option, go for the win when it’s there to be had, and it doesn’t come off – well, at least you’re only left with one regret!”

Asked to cite an example from last season when opting for the brave approach over a more cautious one paid dividends, the former Southampton and Portsmouth coach identifies the 6-1 away win at Cinderford Town in

MARKETING AND MEDIA Contact, Graham Lycett, graham.lycett@ jellyfishlivewire.co.uk

Over the past 4 years, we have worked tirelessly to position the club as a professional and ambitious organisation both on and off the pitch. This has been done through creating a strong and consistent brand and regular communication via the club's many channels, including: Website, Screens, Social Media, Local and national press, Matchday programme.

This has driven followers and fans and we boast an enviable demographic that includes more and more girls, women and families. We have moved the average fan age from 50+ to a spread from 16 – 65+. This has helped us to attract local, national and international brands as sponsors and partners.

mid-November.

“They set up with quite an aggressive 4-3-3, and the natural thing to do as the away side would have been to sit tight and try to pick them off on the break. But we’d scored five in the previous match against Westbury and had a couple of new lads who’d injected something different into our attacking play. So, after talking it over with my staff, I decided to take the game to them and we produced one of our best away performances of the season to earn a big win.”

While a strong adherent to his own philosophy, the Totton boss, whose playing career involved a short-lived stint with BAT Sports (the club now known as Totton & Eling) before he went into coaching at a relatively young age, is adamant that any praise for the successes of the 2022/23 season should be directed elsewhere.

“I’ve said it before, but it bears repeating; I give all the credit to my players.

They are the ones who have to go out there and do it, particularly in the miserable cold, wet, winter months and, sometimes, have to play through the pain of knocks and strains, or cope when being left out of the team. And also, by doing the right things off the pitch, like eating the right foods, not drinking too much, and getting enough sleep. The whole squad has been first class – ever since I walked into the club. Their willingness to buy into what we’re trying to do and the way we’re going about it has been a dream from my point-of-view, and I couldn’t be happier to see them being successful because they absolutely deserve it, for what they’ve given me and the coaching staff in terms of their time, their work rate, their openness to new ideas. First class, every one of them.”

Over more than 20 years in the game, Ball has built his coaching reputation on his ability to develop young players. It is a reputation that has enabled a humble non-league football club on the outskirts of Southampton to attract several players who have had a taste of professional football and are keen to work their way back to the big time with the manager’s help and guidance.

“I have always been passionate about coaching young players, and I’m delighted that at this club, the Board and I are on the same wavelength about how to go about doing that. It’s very important to set young players the right level of challenge at different stages of their pathway; set the challenge too high, it becomes too difficult and frustrating for the player, and they don’t make it; set it too low, it’s too easy and they get bored or they get so used to achieving that they lose the ability to push themselves at the more difficult stages further down the line. You

have to be careful, and you have to be patient. Give players their opportunities here and there, and keep talking to and encouraging them. We are prepared to do that at this football club, and in a relatively short space of time, we’ve had several successes.”

Among the young players the manager names to illustrate his point are defenders Jordan Ragguette and Luke Hallett, who were both mainstays of last season’s treble-winning team, together with forward Ethan Taylor and winger Matty Burrows, who joined the club from Weymouth in November. Central midfielder Owen Pelham is a product of the club’s Academy, and he has featured regularly throughout the team’s preseason matches, including a substitute appearance against Yeovil Town at the Snows Stadium on Saturday (22 July).

Fellow Academy player Brenno Narezzi was a star for AFC Totton’s sister club, Totton & Eling, in the Wessex League Division One last

year and is tipped for another fine season this term, while his good friend and frequent Millers teammate Diego Ramos Santarelli, who was born in Venezuela, is due to begin a scholarship in the United States within the next month.

The Stags’ latest signing is former AFC Bournemouth and Yeovil Town striker Jake Scrimshaw, who, like many players before him, identified the manager’s proven track record in the development of young players as a key influencer in his decision to sign on the dotted line for the Snows Stadium outfit.

Having a successful football club on their doorstep can only be a positive thing for the local community in Totton and the surrounding areas, too.

“First thing’s first, they have an exciting, attacking football team to come and watch, week-in, week-out, playing its heart out and competing for honours against some very good teams. We’re a forwardthinking club in lots of ways and for those who would like

to become players themselves – whether they be young lads hoping to make an impact in the game, or young women and girls who are interested in getting involved in the sport – there are several clearly visible pathways to make that a reality.

“Football is an extremely competitive business but if you’re good enough and you work hard enough, opportunity will come your way. Then, it becomes a case of what you can do to make that chance pay.”

(By Ben Rochey-Adams.)

PAN DISABILITY/ WALKING/COMMUNITY

A brief insight to Dave Penny and his team’s contribution to the community side of our club over the years.

“In that time i was involved in setting up a pan-disability football team that competes in the pan-disability league finishing runners up last season, also setting up a walking football session that has now expanded so big they play and train twice a

week both teams were set up six years ago. When COVID hit i was involved in setting up a food bank service for our wonderful national health service working alongside my niece who is a nurse and my wife plus other volunteers to supply NHS staff with grab bags full of essentials they could

grab after finishing their duty we delivered over 1,500 grab bags delivering them to the hospitals in our area .this drew the attention of the local doctors surgeries in our area, who approached me to set up the club as a COVID vaccination centre, this we did and went on to deliver 29 and a half thousand vaccinations over the coming months entering the club in a big part of this country’s history.

We have also done work with the police commissioner to involve rehabilitation through sport participation for offenders and raised funds for many charities running bucket collections on match days, plus supporting local food banks with regular donations.

And of course, the children’s Christmas toy appeal, which is now in its seventh year an initial idea by my wife and myself where we donate presents donated by our wonderful players, directors fans and sponsors that allow the less fortunate children to wake up on Christmas morning and seeing Santa has been, the local schools and churches identity the children and deal

EXCITING NEW SEASON AHEAD FOR OUR UNDER-11S GIRLS’ TEAM OUR VERY FIRST AFC Totton Girls’ team completed their inaugural season in the Hampshire Girls’ Youth Football League last season. The U10 girls achieved and learnt so much, coming away with many successes throughout the 2022/23 season, including reaching the Semi-Final of a recent tournament.

We are now entering the new season as U11s, which brings more rules along with bigger pitches and goals, so there’s still lots to learn and plenty of changes to get used to, but our girls will continue to flourish. We have recruited

with the distribution to the families the Christmas toy appeal is something we are especially very proud of.

New Forest East representative Julian Lewis MP visited for a tour of Snows Stadium. He watched the club’s pan-disability and walking footballers in action while learning about the AFC Totton Women’s and Under-11s girls’ teams, and the weekly coaching sessions encouraging female participation. The club also provides meals and warm spaces to homeless people and helps to rehabilitate offenders.

Contact: Dave Penny: tamterhan@yahoo.co.uk

WALKING FOOTBALL

“AFC Totton walking football sessions have been ‘running’ for over 5 years, the number of active members has risen to 30 plus. Places are limited currently due to the size of the MUGA playing surface, but the club has plans for a full-length artificial pitch. The group comprises men and women, of mixed abilities, from mid 50s to mid 70s. Within the group is a former

throughout the off-season to add to our ever-growing squad and we are certainly looking forward to starting again in September.

As a club, we are all keen to add more girls’ teams, while also providing an entry point into the sport with our very own Weetabix Wildcats sessions, which are increasing in popularity every week. Wildcat Sessions are open to 5-to-11-year-old girls.

They take place on the MUGA pitch at the Snows Stadium complex from 5:45pm6:45pm on Wednesday evenings and cost £3 per session. To book a place for your child, please go to tinyurl.com/4pkuadtr or contact the club for more information on 023 8086 8981.

AFC Totton player from the Southampton Senior Cup winning side of the early 1980s and a Southampton Ladies FA Cup winner from 1971, who is also a Lost Lioness from the 1971 World Cup in Mexico. A number of the group are season ticket holders at The Snows Stadium, some have been supporting The Stags since the 1960s. A key aspect of the sessions is the post session analysis and putting the world to rights over a cuppa in the club cafe”.

Contact: Tony Borowiec5 ajborowiec55@gmail.com

YOUTH FOOTBALL

There are some exciting changes being made to our youth section for the upcoming 2023/24 season. And there are several reasons why this season is particularly thrilling for us at AFC Totton. Firstly, we have successfully doubled the size of our youth section to now include more than 30 teams across various age groups. This growth presents us with fantastic opportunities for development and further progress.

One area we are particularly focused on expanding is the girls’ side of our youth section. We are dedicated to promoting and nurturing girls’ participation in football, and we are enthusiastic about the prospects this season holds for their development. Additionally, we are eagerly anticipating the second season of our women’s

team. It has been a great success thus far, and we are determined to build upon that momentum and the achievements of last term.

However, the most significant change this season lies within our Under-18s, where the players make the transition to men’s football. It is ingrained in our youth philosophy to provide 30% of homegrown players to our first team. We are keen to build upon the successes of Zach Earley and Hugo Rawlings, who were signed for the first team last season.

This year, we have constructed an U18 squad consisting of approximately 55 players, who will be divided into three teams. One of these teams will mark the youth section’s debut in the Hampshire Combination League, while the other two sides will compete in the City of Southampton League. All 55 players will be registered for the Hampshire side, with a distribution between the two City of Southampton teams.

Our goal is to create an environment where hard work and excellence are rewarded. If players demonstrate dedication and exceptional performance, they will have the opportunity to move up to play in the Hampshire team. Similarly, if players experience a dip in form or are returning from injury, they can play at a lower level to regain their confidence.

Operating the U18s with a club mentality allows us to prepare the players for the

next step in their football journey. It has been a challenging process thus far, and we would like to extend our gratitude to Simon, John and Richard from the Blue management team for their invaluable support. We would also like to extend a warm welcome to Oliver and Craig, who have joined our club as the manager and coach, respectively.

Their expertise and guidance will be instrumental in shaping our youth section this season. Furthermore, we have established a partnership with Bishop’s Waltham and Shield FC. This collaboration enables some of our players to gain valuable experience by participating in men’s football matches on Saturdays as part of their ongoing development.

Our ultimate objective is to prepare these players for potential opportunities with clubs such as Totton & Eling or even receiving interest from Jimmy Ball, himself. We are incredibly excited about the upcoming season and the opportunities it presents for our youth section. We believe that by providing a nurturing and competitive environment, we can empower our players to reach their full potential. Thank you for your ongoing support, and we look forward to sharing more updates with you as the season progresses.

AFC TOTTON YOUTH TEAMS

By Rob Good, Youth Chairman

AFC TOTTON WOMEN AND GIRLS

What a fantastic sunday

afternoon we had at Miller Park! AFC Totton Women kicked off their pre-season schedule against next season’s league opponents, Gosport Borough Reserves. After eight weeks of hard work and dedication, we’ve improved various aspects of our game, including our fitness, which really showed on the field.

We started the match with a new formation that we’ve been diligently practicing, and the entire squad loved executing it flawlessly. From the first whistle to the last we dominated the game, not giving our opponents any significant chances. In the first half, we secured a three-nil lead with an unfortunate own goal, an impressive finish by Vicky Tabley and a brilliant goal from Sammy Hobbs.

The second half continued in the same vein, with us dictating the proceedings and creating clear-cut chances. Vicky Tabley sealed the victory with another left-footed finish, making it four-nil. But it was the overall style and high standard of the performance that brought us the most joy. We pressed high, tackled hard, spread the play and finished with finesse – everything we had hoped for in our first match back.

Our journey in the Hampshire County Women’s Football League promises to be exciting, with both familiar and new faces in our division. We have great confidence that we will have a successful season, especially if we maintain the

levels we displayed in our preseason opener. We have several more pre-season games lined up to continue our preparations. Stay tuned to our social media channels for updates and be a part of our journey!

AFC TOTTON OVERVIEW AND PLANS AT THE SNOWS STADIUM AND MILLAR PARK

AFC Totton’s board of directors and their Senior Management colleagues at Totton and Eling Football Club have big plans for the future of the Snows Stadium complex, incorporating T&E’s Miller Park ground.

Situated next to the South Hampshire Industrial Estate just off Salisbury Road, where the town of Totton intersects with the village of Calmore, the whole area is marked for major redevelopments over the course of the next several years. A new Aldi supermarket is already in the process of being built next to The Stags’ home ground, with planning permissions also in place for a significant housing development that will be implemented in stages between the new store and the nearby village of Bartley, which is located on the edge of the New Forest.

Newcomers to the expanded town will find on their doorstep a couple of upwardly-mobile non-league football clubs with ambitions of climbing their way up through the divisions of English football’s pyramid system.

Steve Brookwell, the CEO of reigning Southern League Division One South Champions AFC Totton, talked the club’s Matchday Programme Editor through the planned changes during a tour of the two football club sites a few days after the preseason visit of Yeovil Town.

At present, the Snows Stadium meets the ground grading requirements up to and including the Conference South. If the club were to gain promotion to the National Conference and, potentially, into EFL League Two, some improvements would be required. The club has received provisional planning permission for a number of works, with applications to progress others submitted to the local council.

These improvements will be made over the course of the next several years, ultimately building to a 10,000-capacity Snows Stadium fit for the Football League, and a Miller Park ground suitable for the Southern League.

MILLER PARK

Totton and Eling’s home ground played host to their

more illustrious neighbours for the first three pre-season games of the summer while the newly-laid grass on the Snows Stadium bedded in to form the lush green carpet that can now be seen at The Stags’ home ground. The Millers, however, are on home pitch hiatus until further notice while the Miller Park surface is torn up and replaced with an all-weather 3G surface.

The third-generation synthetic grass pitch will then be the home venue for Totton & Eling’s games in the Wessex League Division One and a variety of cup competitions, as well as a training pitch for the AFC Totton first team on Tuesday and Thursday nights. It will also host the club’s Academy team, Women’s team and some of the teams at the various age groups.

Southampton FC will also make use of the facility with a number of their teams utilising the all-weather facility. When the fixture schedules allow, the pitch will also be available to the public for hire. To complement the new playing surface, the floodlights around Miller Park will be improved with the installation of 350 Lux LED bulbs and fencing reaching six-feet high will surround three sides of the ground.

Totton and Eling’s main stand will remain as it is but a new stand is to be installed on the opposite side of the ground, behind the home and away team dug-outs. Once constructed and declared fit for use, Miller Park’s total capacity is anticipated to be around 1,200.

At the end of the ground closest to the new Aldi site, the existing changing room and amenities block will be extended to include a 24hour vending facility, which will be staffed during normal hours and accessible via an electronic membership key card during non-working hours. And the installation of additional turnstiles will bring the ground up to Southern League standards.

One cabin-style classroom is already in place on the side of the Miller Park ground closest to the public footpath that runs behind the Post-Office building on the Calmore Industrial Estate, with the delivery of a second classroom now imminent. These facilities will be used by the Academy, working under Scott Rendell and the SCL Learning Lead Hannah Hood, with first-year scholars in one classroom, the second-year cohort in another and those who stay on for the optional third year course will work in the PWI Suite located at the top of AFC Totton’s main stand.

Kyle Giles, Supporter & Sponsor: Agile Carpentry. As a proud supporter and sponsor of AFC Totton, I couldn’t be more delighted to see the club getting the recognition they deserve in this season’s Football Focus Magazine. My business has had the privilege of serving the club, and in doing so, I’ve had the incredible opportunity to get to know the many wonderful individuals who make this club a true gem in our community.

Being a fan, I’ve witnessed the club’s remarkable journey, from the highs of last season to the promising start of this one. It’s been a joy to watch AFC Totton develop and grow, not just as a football club but as a vibrant part of our community

What’s even more exciting for me personally is that my seven-year-old son, Frankie, is about to embark on his own adventure with the club’s youth section. Knowing the kind of nurturing environment AFC Totton provides, I couldn’t be more reassured that he’s in good hands. It warms my heart to see how this club welcomes and supports young talents like Frankie.

AFC Totton stands as a shining example of a true local club. The crowds that gather at their matches are a testament

to the close-knit bonds that have formed within the club. Football, at its core, is about relationships, and this club exemplifies that ethos.

As the new season unfolds, there’s an unmistakable buzz of excitement in the air. Everyone associated with AFC Totton, from the dedicated players to the passionate members and loyal supporters, is filled with anticipation for what lies ahead. It’s this enthusiasm that fuels the great atmosphere that surrounds the club.

On behalf of myself and everyone at Agile Carpentry, I want to extend our warmest wishes to all the teams, members, and fans of AFC Totton for the rest of the 2023/2024 campaign. May success continue to shine upon this remarkable club, and may the bonds of friendship and community that make AFC Totton so special continue to grow stronger with each passing day. Here’s to an unforgettable season ahead!

Paultons Park announced as Official AFC Totton travel kit sponsor

PAULTONS PARK AND AFC TOTTON have announced a brand-new partnership with the award-winning family theme park becoming the team’s travel kit sponsor. The Paultons Park logo will appear on the polo shirts and tracksuits worn by the AFC Totton team as they travel to and from games and interact with fans after matches.

The renowned Paultons Park attraction neighbours AFC Totton’s home ground The Snows Stadium, making this partnership a natural fit as the destinations are situated only two miles apart. The organisations’ also have aligning and underpinning community-focused values. AFC Totton and Paultons Park share a dedication social value, and their teams recognise their responsibility within the community to improve lives and create opportunity.

James Mancey, Operations Director at Paultons Park, said: “It is hugely exciting to be able to support such a wellloved local team. AFC Totton delivered fantastic results last

season, and so to support their continued success, we felt like now was the perfect opportunity to join the team as a sponsor. We’re proud to see the Paultons name on our local team’s travel kit and look forward to what we’re sure will be another hugely successful season for the squad.”

In the 2022/23 season, AFC Totton enjoyed one of the most successful seasons in their 137year history. The team were crowned Champions of the Southern League Division One South and won the Champion of Champions Super Cup against their Central Division counterparts.

Jimmy Ball, AFC Totton Manager, said “Paultons Park is an instantly recognisable and respected brand, not just in our local area but across the UK. We’re hugely excited to announce the partnership for the upcoming season.

“Throughout the previous season, we demonstrated the capabilities that we have on the pitch. I have every confidence that we will continue to demonstrate the same tenacity and skill from the first whistle of the new season.”

Jimmy Ball shows off the travel kit jacket which, like the white polo shirt, has the Paultons Park logo emblazoned across the back.

RON ATWILL , SUPPORTER & SPONSOR: SCOTT BECK LTD

As the director of ScottBeck Paving and Landscapes Ltd I have sponsored our new guy Alfie Stanley this year he’s a fantastic prospect with a lot of skill & pace and a great lad to boot!

At AFC Totton we have a band of fans of which we call `Mally’s Muppets` who stand in the `Mally’s Corner` part of the ground. Mally Thomas is a lifelong fan of AFC Totton and played for them many a year ago, he is now in his 80s and still never misses a game.

Mally always wears a flat cap, so in his honor, as many of us as possible wear flat caps on the Corner as a sign of respect to this great club stalwart.

The club has really supported our Corner with signs being put up etc. and seats for Mally Thomas and Malc Wort, they’ve even presented Mally with his own shirt.

This year we were invited to the presentation evening where Jimmy Ball presented Mally with his Champions of Champions medal and let me tell you, not a lot makes Mally cry, but he was welling up a bit, it really made his evening.

Our Mally’s Corner has become the hub for most of the lads and the atmosphere on this Corner sometimes is electric, absolutely buzzing!

I Ron Atwill, Michael Hill, Benni Pritchard AKA THE

Most weeks we bring the drum out to play which makes a big difference and gets the fans going.

We can’t thank the board, manager, and players enough for what they have achieved and what their plans are for the future of this great club.

League winners, Cup Champions, and Champions of Champions winners. What more can you ask for. We are truly going places.

VOICE, Jamie Sutton AKA MINI VOICE, Andy Canning, Dog, Barry Wort are just some of the main characters in the Corner.

About Solent Street Works

We are a Street Works consultancy, delivering a management, coordination and planning package to our clients. We are based in Southampton, but work on contracts all over the UK. We have a growing reputation of going the extra mile to meet targets for our clients, adding that personal touch along the way. We work tirelessly to build and maintain relationships with all parties, from Local/ Highway Authorities, Works Promotor, traffic management, contract managers, site agents, supervisors and gangers. We also have robust processes in place to minimise the risk of Fixed Penalty Notices and Section 74 overstays.

Our business is tailored to the requirements of each client. We work remotely but can provide full back-office support to offer Project and Street Works management, supply a Daily Whereabouts and source Stats/ Utility Prints/ Safe Digs for any location in the UK. We can now offer site surveying of existing and planned infrastructure. Ad-hoc office or site visits and meetings can also be arranged, should there be a need to meet with a Local Authority. We have direct contact with Internet Service Providers and builders of Full Fibre infrastructure.

The founder, Andrew Waight has grown the business gradually over time, building many relationships with clients and colleagues, and getting recommendations and referrals following on from that. We are looking to increase our exposure and profile to become the primary Street Works solution provider.

Twelve years ago , I was fortunate to land a coordination role on the Street Works team of a very wellestablished civil engineering company, delivering services across multiple utility sectors, including telecommunications,

gas, power, water, renewable energy and rail. I worked my way up through the organisation to become a Team Leader. I then had the opportunity to work for a more recently established company, dedicated to managing the sewer contract for a water supplier. I was then approached by another very well-established Tier 1 contractor, to work on a large telecoms project in the south. Finally, around 6 years ago, I was presented with an opportunity to work on a Highways England build and another Tier 1 contractor. This is where I established my Limited Company and the rest is history! I’ve worked with some of the market leaders and biggest telecoms suppliers, that are working hard to build competition and help keep prices low for consumers.

I have worked with several key and important people along the way. I have learned to take the positives from each experience to be the manager I am today, but I am always striving to learn more and become a better version of myself. Currently, my small team of dedicated individuals inspire me more than ever. They manage to juggle lots of things, but their keen eye for detail and dedication to their roles is the key to the success of the business.

Moving forward we are expecting further expansion into Project & Street Works management, inspection and surveying. We aim to deal directly with Tier 1 and 2 contractors, trying to break the monopoly in the market!

Its wonderful to hear that AFC Totton, who we are a proud sponsor of, are being recognised in Football Focus Magazine this season. My experience of the club, and in particular through mingling with the fans, some have become close friends, its apparent what a great family

NRSWA and Street Works Consultants Hampshire, The South and Nationwide.

Established 6 years ago, we are quickly becoming the prominent resource for utilities, local authorities and contractors across the country.

Road Works Coordination

Traffic Management

Street Works Planning

NRSWA Supervision

T: 023 8098 6303

E: andy@solentstreetworks.com

W: www.solentstreetworks.com

A: London Road, Southampton, SO15 2AG

club they are.

Last Seasons achievements can only be described as outstanding and although consolidation may be on their mind it wouldn’t surprise me if the finish near the top of the table!

AFC Totton are a great club to be part of both on and off the field it is obviously a very well run club. Myself and staff at Solent Street Works wish everybody all the very best of success for the 2023/2024 campaign!

Solent Street Works are MULTI-UTILITIES Street Work Providers!

/SolentStreetworks

/solentstreetso4

solent-streetworksconsultants-limited

Ipswich Wanderers FC

It’s November 2017, and one of the founder members of the Eastern Counties League, and a sleepy giant of local non league, Ipswich Wanderers FC, have sacked their manager and lay languishing at the foot of the table. A club in serious decline, a couple of loyal senior players (James Buckle & Mark Goldfinch) were asked to take the reigns and ‘do what they can’. Relegation that year was inevitable. The club dropped to the dreaded step 6 East Anglian wilderness, the lowest level in the NonLeague system. A year of mid-table mediocrity followed, all the more impressive considering that the two inexperienced managers had now been robbed of any remaining budget to pay

any player expenses. Rock bottom? - not quite. The debts were mounting, the facilities in comical decline. There was no reserve side, the youths lost every week, gates had dropped to below 60, and the end surely near.

NEW LEADERSHIP

The managers knew that for fortunes to change on the pitch, then things needed to change off it. The club clearly needed new leadership, but no one really wanted the top job. No budget, no lease, no point. Eventually, a local business-man Stephen Boyle, whom new the managers decided to help them out “for a few months...!”Stephen set up restructuring the debts, trying to put a semblance of a playing

budget together and slowly, with the contacts of the popular managers, a side was starting to take shape. “We just need to get back to step 5 and the Premier Division” was the simple goal and seemingly the only route to a viable, sustainable future.

COVID DESPAIR

March 2020, the team is on a roll. In the top half and with a seemingly simple run in, eyeing up one of the 4 promotion places rarely on offer due to pyramid restructure. Suddenly Covid hit, and the season was null & void. Disappointed but not beaten, the club added to the squad, and 10 games into the 2020-21 season Wanderers had amassed 28 points from the 30 on offer.

With 4 sides going up and already 10 points clear of 5th place with two games in hand, the perfect start. December, and Covid hit again and the season was ‘curtailed’. This time though the Covid pill was a bitter one to swallow as on a PPG formula, the club missed out on promotion by decimal points, and yet another year at step 6 beckoned.

LATERAL TRANSFER

Step 6 in regional parts of England highlights some of the flaws in the non league pyramid. For clubs in regional areas, such as the coast in East Anglia, are often at this level shoe-horned into leagues bordering the Midlands or other central areas. There is usually more travelling than at step 4 equivalent. When the allocations were announced for the 2021-22 season and the Eastern Counties First Division North included sides from as far wide as South Lincolnshire, and many new sides around Peterborough, the club was close to throwing in the towel. The only option remaining was a lateral transfer to the South Division to take on sides primarily made up of teams from Essex and North London. With the transfer ratified by the FA, Wanderers made the move, and 15 games into the season, and only one defeat, the choice appeared a good one. Just one problem...

“When you’ve been through what Wanderers have been through over the past 5 or 6 years, resilience, and a champions sheer refusal to quit defines you!”

STEPHEN BOYLE

CLUB CHAIRMAN

THE DUAL WITH BUCKHURST

The FOUR teams automatic promotion carrot of previous years had now gone, awarded to teams promoted on the PPG formula the year before. This year only ONE team was guaranteed to go up, and despite easily sweeping 18 of the other 19 teams aside, one team, Buckhurst Hill was following Wanderers punch for punch. From November onwards, the top two sides pretty much won every game every week, both some 20 points clear at the top of the table. For one side though, they’d have to face the lottery of a 4 way play off to decide the remaining promotion slot to step 5. It all came down to a murky Tuesday night top 2 fixture 3 games from the end of the season away in London. Wanderers were two points clear, neither side seemingly dropping points, surely, winner takes all. A crowd of close to 1000 witnessed the top of the table encounter and Wanderers snatched the win with a text book counterattacking away performance to grab the win, 2 nil. There was one more twist in the tail. A seemingly straight forward home fixture a few days later against mid-table Barkingside FC was meant to be a routine procession to a title lift, but it required an injury time winner with 16 seconds left to secure the title and with it a return to the promised land.

EARLY SEASON WOBBLES

Wanderers knew they had a good-side and fancied being

competitive in their return to the Premier Division. Late September however, 2nd from bottom, no wins and it appeared that the ‘P’ word was all hype, and the ‘R’ word more likely. Eventually Wanderers steadied themselves at the new level, and began to climb the table. Into the new year, and they had become the form side climbing the table and were within 12 points of Thetford Town at the summit as they faced the league leaders in what seemed a pivotal away fixture. Wanderers fluffed their

lines. a 2-1 win for the leaders and IWFC resigned to surely a play off spot at best now some 15 points adrift.

DRAMA AT THE DOUCY

Not a bit of it! the spirit of the previous seasons adversity and the title winning success, Wanderers went on an incredible 15 match league winning run to reign in the league leaders Thetford. 5 points adrift, Wanderers, now in the top two, were to get their chance of revenging Thetford in an eagerly awaited home fixture at the

back end of March. Was this Buckhurst all over again?The game attracted a record league gate of 501 to The Doucy’ (Wanderers home). 2 nil down at half time, this appeared a fairytale story too far. Thetford were in cruise control. With 25 mins left, Wanderers were handed a life-line with a scrappy goal, but still going into injury time were struggling to carve out an equaliser against 10 men to keep their feint title hopes alive. Thetford were then reduced to 9 men, and on 95 mins a flick header, and The

Doucy’ erupted. Two all, the clock ticking.

SPIRIT OF CHAMPIONS

When you’ve been through what Wanderers have been through over the past 5 or 6 years, resilience, and a champions sheer refusal to quit defines you. Most sides having been battered all game, against the better side would have taken the point and counted their blessings. Wanderers, got a free kick on half-way, sent everyone up, and with pretty much the last touch of the game netted an 98 minutes winner to secure all 3 points. The spirit of

that night in the ‘bear pit’ at Buckhurst, and the adversity of the cancelled COVID seasons in affect secured the title again that day. Champions do things differently to the other sides. They sense the moment, and then deliver. In a league title race, some points mean more than others, and with two back to back titles Wanderers now reach Step 4 football for the first time in their history, just 5 years after being seemingly weeks from extinction.

James, Mark and Stephen are still in their roles. The club is looking forward to a new future.

THOMAS DELLER INFINITY CLEANING SERVICES

I’m Thomas from Infinity Cleaning Services, and I’ve had the pleasure of knowing James Buckle since we were both just 10 years old. Over the years, we’ve played together at various clubs, forming a bond that extended beyond the pitch. When James took on the role of team manager, I was more than willing to lend a hand to support our shared passion for the game.

It all began with a simple advertising board at the club, but our partnership quickly evolved. I found myself sponsoring the team’s kit and eagerly seizing any other opportunities that came our way. As a business, I’ve always been committed to supporting local teams, and I’m proud to sponsor not only the club James manages but also an U10s and U7s team in the area.

The transformation that Steve, James, Mark, and others have brought to the club has been remarkable. I remember the darker days of playing there, but now, it’s a place where friends come together, and the sense of community is strong.

Whenever the club needs assistance, I’m just a phone call away.

Despite being a season ticket holder at Ipswich Town FC, I make it a point to attend as many Wanderers’ matches as my schedule allows. Saturdays are usually devoted to spending quality time with my sons, Sol and Sully. Whether it’s coaching their teams or traveling to watch Ipswich play, our weekends are packed with football. The Fanzone at Ipswich Town is a brilliant stadium experience. We often take the bus down there, arriving around 12:30 for a 3 pm kick-off, and it’s a routine that speaks volumes about our love for the game.

In many ways, I view Ipswich Wanderers as a smaller, more intimate version of the Town. Both clubs hold a special place in my heart, and I can’t praise Ipswich Wanderers Football Club enough. It’s filled with unsung heroes who make it a wonderful place to spend a Saturday afternoon.

So, from me and everyone at Infinity Cleaning Services, we send our best wishes for the 2023/24 campaign. Here’s to another season of exciting football and community spirit at Ipswich Wanderers.

PAUL WILLIS,

&

ENGINEERING SERVICES. Not being a footballer, or having any great interest in the sport, the last thing I would have predicted would have been to be a supporter and sponsor of Ipswich Wanderers FC. However, my eldest son William is a footballer, and a very good one, in fact Will is the first team’s goalkeeper and had the honour of lifting the U18`s premier League title whilst given the clubs accolade as being the most improved player for the U23 league winners last season.

My gratitude and respect go out to the many great people and coaches at Wanderers that have a talent for developing and nurturing youth and bringing the best out in their players. Last season’s successes were brought about in part by players wishing to honour

their coaches hard work and repay their selfless efforts in contributing to their individual development.

Guiseppe, Rick, James and Liam are only a few of the great coaches and unsung heroes who have helped take the Wanderers into the history books. My son’s confidence as a player has sky rocketed since he started at the club and in particular when he was invited, at the beginning of last season, to start working with the first team, he has developed a really close relationship with Craig Brand (Brandy) 1st team keeper and they work really well together and learn from each other. During the 22/23 campaign you could see a lot of elements of Brandy in Will`s game coming out. As a parent it’s really nice to see.

No being able to take to the field of play myself the next best thing was to help out in any way I could with any engineering tasks needing resolved and become a sponsor with my business Armour Engineering Services. These days I am happy to drive Will all over the country as I see the great benefits that have been received by being part of this outstanding club called Ipswich Wanderers FC!

SUPPORTER

SPONSOR: ARMOUR

Armour Engineering is a family run specialist metal working engineering business based in the centre of East Bergholt, Suffolk.

01206 299899 armourengineeringltd.co.uk

& RESTORATION MACHINING & MILLING

& REPAIRS

& FABRICATION

Delighted to be associated with the success of Ipswich Wanderers FC!

Mousehole AFC

Rising to the Challenge

Way Out West - a small village club on a journey to new heights.

In the rugged farmland above the picturesque village of Mousehole, tucked away in between broccoli fields and Paul cricket club, a footballing story of determination and ambition has been unfolding. For a place more renowned for its picturesque harbour and quaint cottages, Mousehole AFC has defied the odds and is on a remarkable footballing journey of discovery. Located as far west as you can go in the English National League system, the club has faced numerous challenges, both on and off the pitch, but their relentless spirit and passion have paved the way for success.

NAVIGATING THROUGH THE WILDS OF CORNWALL

As a footballing hub in a county predominantly associated with rugby, Mousehole AFC faced its initial challenge - the perception that football was a secondary sport locally. However, the club took this challenge head-on, embracing the passion and enthusiasm for football present in the local community. But it’s not just the sport that poses a challenge; the geographical location itself could have been an obstacle. The ground at Trungle Parc is nestled down narrow country lanes, making it difficult for away teams and fans to reach. However, the club’s unique setting has fostered a strong sense of community and togetherness among players, staff, and fans. After a long drive, visitors often feel they’ve arrived at the end of the world but relish the experience and the warm welcome they receive.

AMBITIONS AND DEVELOPMENT ON AND OFF THE PITCH

Founded in 1922, Mousehole AFC remained in local Cornish leagues for decades, rarely venturing out of the western part of the duchy. Their first-ever league match outside of Cornwall was in

2008. However, in 2016 the club decided to set its sights higher and embarked on an ambitious journey up the league system. With three promotions in five years, the club is now entering the Pitching In Southern League Division One. Only Truro City – now in National League South – are higher placed among Cornish teams. This dream demanded careful financial planning and the club has something of a unique solution. As well as the usual sponsorships and match-day ticket and hospitality sales, the club gains a major proportion of its income from a campsite which adjoins the pitch. Campers have access to hardstanding pitches with electric hook ups and use the football changing room facilities when not in use by the club.

But the ambition doesn’t stop there. After securing promotion by winning the Western League in April 2023,

Mousehole have been set the challenge of stepping up its facilities to meet the requirements of the new level. A comprehensive ground upgrading programme has been initiated in accordance with FA regulations, with plans to increase and improve seating, changing facilities, press and directors’ seating, and a dedicated hospitality area.

A UNIQUE SENIOR TEAM PHILOSOPHY

At the heart of Mousehole AFC’s success lies a determined senior team philosophy. Manager Jake Ash emphasizes a distinct style of football, one that focuses on ball possession and control. “We attract a lot of players who want to play in that style, because they enjoy it. What player doesn’t enjoy having the ball at their feet, especially when they’re technically able. So it’s about a lot about energy and intensity.

INVESTING IN FUTURE PLAYERS

The Player Development Programme has become a crucial part of their on-pitch development. Attracting players from around the UK and also overseas, the club offers an opportunity for players to develop their skills and maintain their fitness levels. Players are provided with somewhere to live and regular high-level training programme beyond and above what they receive with regular team training. Many find local employment and settle in the area while continuing their first-team involvement. It’s been a successful enterprise and so far brought in players from Portugal, France, Scotland and Wales to name but a few. As a result, the programme has not only strengthened the squad but also diversified the club’s international connections.

Intensity is a big word for us.“ With the luxury of training twice a week, the team hone their skills and energy, making them a standout club at the non-league level. In addition to tactical prowess, the club’s scientific approach to matchpreparedness has played a role in their success. With a professional fitness and rehab coach overseeing their programmes, compulsory ice baths after every game and the use of GPS trackers and Veo camera footage for performance analysis,

Mousehole has demonstrated a commitment to excellence.

In addition, apart from the men’s senior team, Mousehole have a successful women’s team, a development squad playing at Step 6 and several youth and junior teams

SPONSORS AND VOLUNTEERS PILLARS OF SUPPORT

The club’s deep-rooted connection with the local community is one of its defining characteristics. Mousehole prides itself on

being a family club, with people of all ages welcomed to matches and strong involvement in the youth teams. Local businesses play a vital role in supporting the club, and the association with the RNLI holds special significance, commemorating the tragic loss of the Penlee lifeboat crew in 1982. The club named their new stand after the boat that was lost, the Solomon Browne.

Mousehole AFC’s success would not have been possible without the support of their sponsors - Laurence Associates, Wolf Jansen, and Verdant. These sponsors have become an integral part of the club’s development, providing valuable support and guidance.

Likewise, volunteers are the lifeblood of the club. Their commitment and dedication ensure the smooth running of matchdays and the overall success of the club. From meticulous matchday planning to maintaining the picturesque pitch, these passionate individuals are the heart and soul of the club. The volunteers are what makes the Seagulls really fly. Much of the club’s recent success can be put down to the quality of the pitch. Groundsman Billy Jacka looks after the pitch with utter love and attention. He lives a few doors down from the ground and, as spends so much of his time tending to the pitch, he’s installed Astroturf at home because he doesn’t have the energy to look after that as well.

Brian Richardson turns up two hours before every match with a list of tasks that help with the smooth running of the

day. He puts out the rubbish bins around the ground, he raises the flags of the RNLI, the club emblem and of late, Ukraine. He writes the team lists on a whiteboard, joking with any children nearby that the seagull on the board has just nipped his finger. His wife Norma is usually to be found in the Seagull Shack tea hut, dispensing teas, coffees and homebaked cakes along with the wonderful pasties from our suppliers Lavenders. Overall, the sense in the club is of a group of people, almost exclusively volunteers, who are all pulling together with one goal - to make the club as good as it possibly can be.

A TIGHT-KNIT GROUP UNITING ON AND OFF THE PITCH

The journey towards success has united Mousehole AFC on and off the pitch. This coming season will see the club travel some 7,500 miles for away games with 7-8 hour round trips to Gloucestershire and Wiltshire commonplace. Their nearest rivals are Tavistock – making their local derby a twohour drive away across the border in Devon. But long bus journeys to away games have only strengthened the camaraderie among players,

staff, and fans. The captain’s brother cooks healthy meals for the team and players’ close-knit bonds and friendships have translated into their performances on the field.

A BRIGHT FUTURE AHEAD

Mousehole AFC’s rise from the wilds of Cornwall has been captured on camera in a nine-part documentary series on You Tube. Way Out West starts as the club emerges from Covid in the summer of 2021 and – to date at least –culminates in the presentation of the Western League trophy in April 2023.

The club’s dedication to development, both on and off the pitch, has laid a solid foundation for a bright future. With a flourishing community spirit and a commitment to playing attractive football, Mousehole AFC aims to leave an indelible mark on the footballing map.

As the club embarks on the next chapter of their footballing adventure, Mousehole AFC is setting out its stall as a beacon of inspiration to small clubs with big dreams, proving that with hard work, dedication, and a close-knit community, anything is possible.

The journey continues.

www.wolfjansen.com

Dan Wills, Wolf Jansen Ltd.

Traditionally there has been a talent drain from the area as people felt it necessary to relocate to fulfil their aspirations, both from a sporting and career perspective.

Mousehole is a club at the centre of the local community and aligns perfectly with our ambition at Wolf Jansen to give opportunities to young people in the area, whilst

expanding their horizons of what is possible to achieve.

The first-team rightly get a lot of focus, but there are also growing Development and Ladies teams, plus a youth section with more than 150 kids training weekly.

The club is run by an amazing group of volunteers, and we are very happy to assist in any way we can and help build on the excellent work being done.

RICHARD MARSDEN SUPPORTER AND MAIN SHIRT SPONSOR

LAURENCE ASSOCIATES.

I live around 7 miles from the club and my connection with Mousehole FC came through family and my business.

Both my sons play football, Caleb spent a few seasons at Mousehole before spreading his wings elsewhere in the area, deciding to play more social football with his friends and is now over at St Just. Zac, my youngest son, plays for one of the Penzance junior teams; Mousehole v Penzance is the local derby down this part of the world, although Mousehole are now a few steps ahead in the leagues! On the business front, the husband of our planning director was a player at the club when we began sponsoring the shirts, but he has since retired.

Unfortunately, due to time and other commitments, I wasn’t able to get down to Trungle Parc as often as I

would have liked last season, but I am in regular contact with Deryk, and I am fully aware of the great 2022/23 campaign they have enjoyed. My plan is to take in more fixtures this season and I’m looking forward to seeing how the 1st XI do in the FA cup after their win against Ilfracombe in the Extra Preliminary Round.

Mousehole FC are undoubtedly a great community club who provide a much needed and important service to local people. The club offers football for all including women`s and a plethora of youth teams. To finish the league as champions and gain promotion is a great achievement for everyone at and as club sponsors Laurence Associates and all our staff are delighted to be part of their success!

TOVO & AFC Mousehole:

ANDREW GRAHAM:

I’ve been the head coach at Mousehole Football Club for the past six years, and more recently, I’ve been working with Jake Ash for the last four years. We’ve had a pretty successful run.

When I first returned from Tovo, I started working with a group of nine-year-olds, and the level of improvement I witnessed was astonishing. This is also when I began implementing what I learned at Mousehole with a group of adult players who had been playing a certain way for years. Witnessing the progress in both nine-year-olds and adults who had played a certain style for over a decade was truly remarkable. After completing my first Tovo course, I was fully committed because I saw the substantial improvement. I returned for the Tovo twocourse, and at Mousehole, we made a collective decision that this was how we wanted to play, no matter what. Over the years, we’ve had various managers come and go, and while it was challenging for some to adapt, they all attempted to incorporate this style of play.

It has been a bit of a struggle because our first team has experienced significant success, including three promotions in five years, and we now compete in the Southern League. This level of competition demands a lot of attention. Thankfully, through our partnership with Tovo and Todd, we’ve managed to get a couple of

our coaches enrolled in their online learning program. They’re currently participating in this summer. Additionally, there’s an opportunity for our development team manager, Drew, to go to Spain in January. If we can get a few more coaches on board with the same vision, it will help us permeate this style throughout the club.

TODD BEANE(TOVO):

I’m originally from the United States but eventually made my way to work with Johan Cruyff in Barcelona on various football projects, such as at Ajax, Barcelona, and Chivas Guadalajara. After Johan’s passing, I founded Tovo, which stands for Total Football in Dutch. We’re located just south of Barcelona on the Mediterranean Sea, where we run training programs for children globally and coaching programs for openminded coaches interested in this methodology.

About seven years ago, Johan passed away, and I had worked alongside him for 14 years. What struck me was that much of what we did at the highest levels of the game didn’t translate to grassroots football. If you work with clubs like Ajax or Barcelona, it’s a world apart from coaching at a local club with limited resources. I wanted to create a methodology inspired by Johan’s vision but adapted for grassroots coaches and humble clubs. Tovo was born to offer a methodology that engages players, emphasizes

football intelligence, skill, and character development. We aim to create intelligent players capable of making decisions in real-game situations. It’s a movement for coaches who believe in this style of football, and it’s spreading worldwide.

It’s clear that the best teams in the world play this way. In the English Premier League, the top three teams all follow this philosophy, which isn’t a coincidence. Playing intelligent football, building positive relationships, possessing technical skills, and displaying character make teams more competitive. This approach has been successful at the highest levels, from Spain’s 2010 World Cup win to coaches like Pep Guardiola, Jurgen Klopp, and Mikel Arteta. However, we know that most coaches aren’t working at that level. We’re working with local clubs and children who need positive experiences in football. We aim to inspire children, help them become intelligent, skillful, and develop strong character, both on and off the pitch.

We must recognize that not all children will reach the professional level, but our goal is to nurture the whole child. Holistic development is crucial, and our methodology fosters intelligence, skill, and character simultaneously. We’re committed to inspiring children, and we believe that’s what every coach, player, and parent wants. We’re not bound by geographical boundaries; we’re united by our shared passion for nurturing young players.

I must give credit to Andrew for bringing Tovo to Mousehole. Andrew’s openmindedness and dedication to his players and community played a pivotal role in this partnership. Tovo isn’t just

about a football style; it’s about promoting intelligent, skillful, and character-driven players while nurturing the whole child. Football, as Johann Cruyff believed, is for everyone to enjoy, and it should unite communities. Mousehole epitomizes this spirit, and we’re excited to support their journey. Football is about relationships, and our shared vision for the game brings people together, transcending geographical boundaries. This connection with Mousehole is a testament to football’s ability to inspire and unite people worldwide.

Johann Cruyff’s legacy goes beyond the pitch; it’s about nurturing children and building communities through sport. His vision was that football should be enjoyable, from grassroots to the highest level. Communities like Mousehole exemplify what football should be a source of joy, learning, and values. Tovo Academy shares this vision, and together, we aim to connect people globally through our passion for the beautiful game. We may have different football styles, but our commitment to nurturing children and creating positive experiences transcends boundaries.

Johan would be proud of this partnership and the impact it can have on young players and communities.

In summary, our partnership is a fusion of football philosophy and a shared commitment to developing intelligent, skilful, and character-driven players while fostering the joy of the game and building strong communities. We’re excited about the potential this partnership holds as we continue to inspire and connect people through football.

“Promoting intelligent, skilful, and character-driven players while nurturing the whole child!”

ADAM FLETCHER, DIRECTOR OF FOOTBALL.

My journey with Mousehole FC began when I attended school in Mousehole, where I played football until the age of 16. In 2005, I made my debut for the club’s first team. After some time away from the area, I returned with a newfound interest in club operations, team analysis, and performance evaluation, shifting my focus away from playing on Saturdays.

During this period, I also became involved with another local club called Ludgvan. Together, we managed to elevate the team to level 10, the highest they could reach given the ground standard specifications, and other factors. Then, the opportunity to join Mousehole FC presented itself. Despite the club being in the early stages of major developments, I was drawn to their passion and ambition.

Since then, the club has been on an upward trajectory, securing three promotions in five seasons, despite the challenges posed by the COVID-19 pandemic. The 2022/23 campaign was a significant milestone, as the club reached Level 4 for the first time in its history. Additionally, our development squad came close to securing promotion, making it a remarkable achievement for the club.

Fletcher Homes & Land is an independent estate agency established by Paul & Adam Fletcher. With over 40 years’ professional experience selling homes and land throughout Cornwall, a deep understanding of the current property market and intelligent analysis of future

@FletcherHomesLand

@fletcherhomesland

fletcherhomesandland.com

Very Proud of our association with Mousehole FC!

Missing out on the promotion for our development team was tough on our players.

It’s safe to say that Mousehole FC is in an excellent position at the moment. I remember looking up to and admiring some of the bigger non-league clubs in previous seasons, and now we’re competing against them in this new season’s league. I feel more relaxed this campaign, possibly because the pressure of the previous two seasons has gradually subsided. With the pressure off, I can better appreciate the journey and reflect on what we’ve achieved in a relatively short time across all aspects and levels of our club. I’ve certainly learned a lot along the way. During the last four or five weeks of the last season, both myself and Jake had only about eight hours of sleep between us. Perhaps we were too focused on winning the title, but our determination carried us past the finish line. We made sure to celebrate our journey and the club’s achievements in a grand manner.

Our geographical location presents unique challenges, and some may assume that we heavily invest in our players from a financial perspective. However, in reality, our identity, aspirations, and where we aim to go are our true strengths. When welcoming new players,

we always emphasize who we are and what we believe we can achieve.

A recent friendly match against Dorking Wanderers was a fantastic experience for us. Dorking shares similar values and motivations with us and made the long trip to compete with our team.

The message of believing and dreaming is often overlooked by our club, but individuals like Kev Bishop

have done an outstanding job of sharing our club’s inspiring story. Looking back, if someone had told me three years ago that Mousehole FC, a small club located out in the West, would be aiming to make history by reaching Level 4 of the football pyramid system, I might have wondered if it was possible. But here we are, and we not only earned it but also deserve to be here!

Cuxton 1991 FC

ADAM OVERTON, 1ST TEAM MANAGER

Since joining Cuxton91 this past season has been the most pleasing for me. The targets we set the lads at the beginning of the campaign were accomplished.Our main focus was promotion from Kent Division 1 Central & East and we ended up winning the league on the final day of the season away against title rivals Ashford FC.

The whole experience has been very enjoyable and was made all the easier by the fantastic management team I have had around me. My Assistants Frans Thorley & Lewis Jennings have been superb in organising the group and Frans with the amazing work he does behind the scenes has made a brilliant contribution to our teams and club. Our 1st Team Coach Brady Lillis was an instrumental figure in our changing rooms and our 1st Team Physio Lauren King has been nothing short of outstanding in keeping our lads fit, ready, and injury free which has played an important part in our success last season.

The talented squad I get to work with each week, and the commitment we get from

them, meant that throughout last season we only lost 3 games in 90mins in both league & cup and were fully deserving league champions. Naturally we also wanted some good cup runs but unfortunately were knocked out in ET to Kent Prem side Fleetdown in the Kent Intermediate Challenge Shield and losing on Penalties to Halls FC in the Semi Finals of the Sevenoaks Shield –

However, in the Inter Regional Challenge Cup we did go all the way in front of a great crowd of over 700 beating Kent Prem side Ide Hill 3-0 winning the LEAGUE & CUP DOUBLE and making history for our club !!!

As a group we are buzzing for this season and with it being our first in the Kent Premier League, we are under no illusion that it’s going to be very competitive, however

pre-season has gone well, and we are confident in continuing our progress.

Off the pitch there has been huge improvements, in a very short period of time, with the club overseeing Ground & Facility developments to ensure the sustainable growth of the football club. Big Thanks to the Joint Chairmans Lee & John for their continued support and drive for this football club, and Paul Reeves for maintaining our excellent Home Pitch.

A big factor to our recent success, and continued rise through the football pyramid, whilst gaining creditable recognition on the way, was our volunteers and

“I`m really optimistic for the future of Cuxton 91!”

sponsorship donors. Without these unsung heroes we would not be in the position we are in now. Both Ashden (Choc) & Manda Clare run the Cuxton Lotto which generates huge profits annually and saved the club through the pandemic; they both deserve huge thanks and recognition. Our main 1st Team Sponsors

Construct-It & Lesterose Builders have supported the team over the past few seasons through various forms of sponsorship and has been of huge factor in supporting the 1st Team financially and ensuring we can compete at the highest levels.

If I was asked to describe Cuxton 1991 Football Club in 3 words, I’d say ‘Family Feel Club’. From top to bottom, at all levels of football, both male & female, Cuxton are determined to continue to provide the best environment & facilities for each person to thrive and enjoy their football. I live in Rainham, 15min drive away from Cuxton, but now find myself coaching Cuxton U11s who my son Coby now plays for, he and his teammates thoroughly enjoy themselves.

Like everyone involved in grassroots football its difficulty to get everything sorted in the limited waking hours we have which can put strain on our family lives so a big thankyou to my wife Leanne who has (put up) with me and my passion for football since we met.

POTTED HISTORY

Cuxton 91 were founded in 1991 by Brian Baker and Nigel Knights, two local men who started a team up for their sons and friends.

In 1995 another group of Dads started another team and joined Cuxton 91. From that point one or two teams have been added each season and the club has grown to its current position with seventeen youth teams and five adult teams.

The Youth section includes two girls teams and the five adult teams includes an over30’s women’s recreational team, starting this coming season.

We also run a Soccer Academy which is for boys and girls and a Wildcats Academy which is for girls.

The club is run by many volunteers from two jointchairman Lee Cooksey and John Sparkes to our volunteer Groundsmen Paul Reeves and George.

There are dozens of other volunteers who help to make the club what it is, a real community grass roots club.

Our first team pitch is within Cuxton itself bang in the middle of the village at

the Social Club. We also use pitches at Cuxton recreation ground, Cuxton school, Strood Academy school and Wainscott school.

All the maintenance work on these pitches is carried out by ourselves, mainly by our fantastic groundsmen. This not only benefits ourselves of course but the schools themselves. The funding for this work comes from our own fundraising plus grants.

Our first team are now in the Kent County Football League Premier Division, the highest level we have played at and have become a real focus for the club and within the village.

The first team manger is Adam Overton and he is backed by strong backroom team.

Our new pitch at the social club has been in use for three seasons. The ground is owned by Cuxton Social Club and the football club has along term lease.

Going forward and to progress we need to widen the pitch by eight metres which is our next big project.

We have a great relationship with the Social club, we help them and they

help us.

Getting the pitch ready three years ago was a real focus for the club and the village during covid and coming out of covid and the pitch becoming up and running was fantastic to see.

During covid, our fixture board, situated on the A228 at Cuxton Autos garage, became a ‘Birthday board’. For nearly eighteen months when there was no football, birthday messages were displayed.

We have close links with Cuxton school, where many of our players come from and as said before we carry out all the maintenance work on the school field which benefits the school as well as ourselves.

We also have a good relationship with Cuxton Parish Council, who own the recreation ground pitch. We sit on the parish councils land management sub-committee as users of the parish councils facilities. We also take part in village events such as the ‘Big Lunch’ and the ‘Bonfire night’.

Finally we run a youth tournament every June, which gives many children huge amounts of fun and also raises funds for the club.

JOHN SPARKES. JOINT CHAIRMAN.

I am John Sparkes and I have been involved with Cuxton 91 for 11 years, starting as a coach of my son’s team at under 6 where I met Lee Cooksey for the first time, and now 11 years later, having taken my son through to under 18 and watched the club grow, Lee and I have been joint Chairman of Cuxton 91 for the last 5 years.

Fairly early on in the journey my wife decided to get involved with the football which I think at first was so that she could see more of my son and I as it was a big commitment coaching a team, however, my wife became the

club secretary and pretty soon the football club became her passion too. Cuxton 91 really has been a family affair for us with my son playing for 11 years, me coaching, my wife as the secretary and even my two daughters helping out on matchdays and on stalls and with food at events.

I now coach the Cuxton 91 Wildcats and I am also the girl’s youth development officer as well as sitting on several sub committees within the club and taking an active role with our community partners like the local schools and the Parish Council. The club has not taken us over as a family but has given us a great deal of enjoyment and

fun and enabled us to do something together, through which we can also give something back to local kids and the wider community.

LEE COOKSEY, JOINT CHAIRMAN.

Along with most people who are involved with grassroots football, my journey began with coaching my own team for which my son played. I was that parent who put my hand up when boys in a local school reached the age of 6/7 years of age. For the past six years I have shared the Chairpersons role with John Sparkes and have found the shared responsibility has worked very well. As a club we always had ambition to grow but ensure that we were able to sustain ourselves with that growth. We have worked hard over the years working with the local Community, and Parish Council as well as three local schools to secure playing facilities for the growth we have developed. We now boast over seventeen youth teams, including two girls, as well as four Senior Men’s including a Vets and one Senior Women’s team, we have a good reputation and relationship with Kent FA who have been very supportive in helping us with our journey. We have

TYRES LTD

I used to be a footballer myself, however these days, you’ll find me on the sidelines coaching my daughter, Brooklynn, or cheering on her team, The Jaguars.

Brooklynn’s journey in football has been nothing short of remarkable. Just a year or so ago, she couldn’t even kick a ball properly. Yet, she’s surpassed everyone’s expectations, earning the title of Players’ Player of the Season. As a formidable midfielder, she’s surrounded by talented friends and benefits from the guidance of some excellent coaches at Cuxton. Many of her teammates also happen to be her classmates, creating a strong bond both on and off the field.

Drawing from my own experience as a former player, I’m able to impart some knowledge and provide Brooklynn with the one-onone attention I wish I had received during my youth. Sometimes, we spend four or five hours together, exploring various techniques and skills. Brooklynn’s learning style revolves around hands-on

been successful in obtaining grants for Pitch Maintenance, Perimeter fencing, as well as storage containers amongst other things. The County FA has been exceptionally supportive. If you are in need of any funding, I would encourage you to reach out as there are always many opportunities for your projects. Recently we have taken steps to add numbers to the Club Committee, to ensure we maintain our standards, and keep communication open and transparent within the club. Our immediate focus now is to develop our Senior sides home ground pitch, as we need to widen the size for us to qualify for further promotion. This is very important for us to achieve, to maintain a pathway for our youth players into a good standard of Men’s football. At the time of writing, we are looking for grant opportunities and support for the private sector to raise the capital needed. We will be setting out a new fiveyear plan over the next few months, as our last one has just elapsed. All objectives were met except for offering disability football, which we would like to prioritise as a focus point in the next 12 months.

experience, allowing her to understand the nuances of the game, whether it’s about shielding, passing and moving, or executing free kicks. It’s amazing to witness her developing these skills at such a young age.

Cuxton FC is truly an exceptional club, where parents, players, and club members are deeply committed to the club and our community. My business, Spinksies Tyres, takes great pride in sponsoring The Jaguars, and we’re always eager to lend a helping hand whenever needed.

As the new season dawns upon us, there’s a sense of anticipation in the air. If the club can replicate the success of the previous season, it promises to be another triumphant year for everyone associated with Cuxton 91. Here’s to the upcoming season, filled with exciting matches and community spirit!

PETE SPINKS, SUPPORTER & SPONSOR: SPINKSIES

PAUL FELTHAM, ADULT SECTION SECRETARY.

As well as being secretary I am also Website Administrator, Registration/ Full Time Office and Committee Member.

My previous roles were, Youth Team Manager U7-U18, Annual Presentation Event Organiser and Social Media Admin.

As with most youth team managers, I began my journey with Cuxton 91 when my son was attending a kid’s football class that was aligned with the club, and once he was ready to start playing in a team, Mark Earley and I volunteered to run 2 teams at U7. We progressed both teams up until the U12 age, where we amalgamated into one team to enable 11-a-side. I took the reins from this point and successfully saw the team through until U18, where we have just finished in the season just passed. In this last season, we still had four of the original boys that joined at U7 which was a particularly pleasing achievement. Some of the boys myself and Mark coached have gone on to play for our Men’s teams and some others at an even higher level, which is testament to the pathway the club strives to offer all players.

In the last few seasons, since the FA’s Full-Time implementation, I have also taken on the responsibility of ensuring the teams weekly, match day admin tasks are completed correctly and on time.

As recognition for the dedication to my team, and the club, I was honoured to receive, at the end of this season, the Jack Lewis Outstanding Contribution Award, recognising my contribution to youth football and the club in general, which was truly humbling.

Having now ‘retired’ from coaching my youth team, it was only natural for me to stay involved in the club that has become so close to my heart. We have an ever-growing adult section, four teams currently, and it is now my job to manage these teams from an administrative perspective, ensuring registration, fixtures, discipline and general admin, is completed correctly for the various leagues our adult teams compete in.

DAN HANSHAW, COACH, COMMITTEE MEMBER & SPONSOR.

Having signed for Cuxton 91 back in 2005 at under 14s after moving from London, I went on to play for the youth teams before playing Sunday league for the men’s team. We then decided to change

to Kent League on Saturdays and making our way through the leagues. It was always nice to play for a local club, who had plans to move up through the leagues, but also keep the family feel amongst all players and members throughout the club.

When I set up my first business, Transport Survey Systems, back in 2016, I wanted to give something back to the club so sponsored the first team warm up shirts. Then with the other businesses I own or am involved in, I always wanted to do my part to help the club. Throughout the years Ashford Hair Lose Clinic has sponsored the first team away kit, and Smart Transport Hub sponsoring the first team tracksuits and warm up shirts.

Now my son plays for Cuxton 91 under 8 tigers and having hung my boots up, my priorities have changed and led me to now sponsoring his team as the future of the club.

On a personal note, I love this club and love being part of it. I am now part of the committee, run the under 8 Tigers and often watch and support the first team as well as others. Sponsorship is imperative for the future of all grass roots teams, and I am proud to continue to support Cuxton 91.

EARL BOURNER, COMMITTEE MEMBER, COACH & MANAGER.

I have been involved with C91 since Sonny my boy started training at the age of six. As with any new team starting, parents usually need to step up and manage the team. Myself and another parent stepped up. I completed level One FA coaching qualification and have never looked back.

This season we move up to 9 aside. Our Team C91 Aces have seen a number of players come and go over the years, but the core players have all been with me since the start, 6 of them who all go to Cuxton Primary School.

As well as coaching a boys Team C91 set up a Vets Team, and I became the Manager. We entered into the Kent League Division Three and finished 2nd in our first season which was a great achievement and subsequently have been promoted to Division Two.

I have lived in Cuxton all my 42 years and like to give back when I can and I have also recently joined the C91 Committee, I have also helped with a number of alterations to the C91 ground over the last few years.

I wear another hat as well, I am the Vice President of Cuxton Social Club, both

JACK

MEDHURST, SUPPORTER & SPONSOR: MEDWAY METALS.

I’m delighted to see Cuxton 91 FC being recognized in the Champions Edition of Football Focus Magazine. It’s another remarkable achievement for the club.

As a supporter and sponsor of the club’s reserve team, I’ve had the privilege of getting to know many wonderful people within the Cuxton 91 community. Some of them are valued customers of our business, which operates throughout the region.

Cuxton is truly flourishing at the moment, and I have immense respect for the countless volunteers who

dedicate their time and effort to keep the club running smoothly. They create a place where fans, players, and members can come together, enjoy themselves, and share in the spirit of the beautiful game.

On behalf of everyone at Medway Metals, I would like to extend our heartfelt congratulations to the club for all they achieved in the past season. I have a strong feeling that their journey is far from over, and I eagerly anticipate continuing my support as they navigate the rest of the 2023/2024 campaign. Here’s to more success and memorable moments ahead!

Reputable scrap metal merchants in Rochester

If you are looking for scrap metal merchants in Rochester or elsewhere in Kent, you can depend on Medway Metals 01634

clubs have a close link and work together, with every player or parent of a minor becoming a member of the Social Club.

The future for both Clubs look very bright.

KAREN COPELAND, COACH.

With the success of the lionesses, now magnificently reaching the World Cup Final, we have been building the girls game at Cuxton 91 for two years. Following a great year with our wildcats training sessions we were able to launch two girls’ team for the 22/23 season. I went on to manage the Panthers. The Panthers enjoyed a great first season and are looking forward to a second season ahead playing 9-a-side. The girls have also inspired us mums to enter the Kent FA over 30’s league for the season ahead! I’m looking forward to continuing growing the girls and ladies’ teams at Cuxton and giving girls the opportunity to play football.

LEE OATES, COACH.

I started with Cuxton91 football club 4 years ago. I made the decision to help out coaching as I wanted to help with my own boys’ progression. Managing a youth football team isn’t all plain sailing. You have players come and go and parents always like to offer their own advice. As well as the team there is your home life which has to be managed as well, at the end of the day we are volunteers and your home life must always come first. This is a lesson I have learned over the past 4 years. Since joining Cuxton91 I have developed my team from the 5 aside format through to 7 aside and am just about to go into the 9 aside format.

The club has been amazing at offering help and assistance for me. I completed my FA level 1 in coaching in 2019 and recently I have just successfully completed my UEFA C License. This is all thanks to Cuxton91 and their ongoing support for their coaches. This year I have taken on additional role of Cuxton91 kit manager. Working with our kit supplier Andreas Carter Sports we have designed a brand new bespoke home and away kit. For the first time Cuxton91 will have their own online club shop offering parents and diehard fans the opportunity to buy Cuxton91 merchandise ranging from beanies & scarfs to tee-shirts and polo tops. With the success of our 1st team, we might even offer replica shirts to buy. This will hopefully be going live sometime in August.

In 2020 I took on a role that is very close to my heart. One of 50 Kent FA mental health champions. This involves working alongside the club to help any of our youth team players with any mental health questions they may have, ranging from eating disorders to anxiety issues. This is a very important subject that is growing more and more support throughout Cuxton91, grassroots football and the FA. Last year I wrote a column every month for our monthly Cuxton91 programme talking about all aspects of mental health to help spread the word and let readers know there is support out there for them. My time with Cuxton91 is one I enjoy and look forward to developing my team further in the years to come!

MARK EARLEY, ACADEMY YOUTH DEVELOPMENT OFFICER.

I started with the club in 2006 when my son joined and they asked for volunteers to manage the team, by 2009 I was involved with 2 teams as I started a team for my youngest son too. It was a full-on Sunday with the youngest playing in the morning and the eldest in the afternoon in the Kent Youth League.

My wife and I got involved with committee side of things when they needed to fill the positions of Club and Subscriptions secretary. After a couple of seasons my wife handed over the Club secretary position, but I continued with the Subscriptions. But my involvement in coaching had stopped, due to my sons moving on to Basketball and Academy level football.

During the AGM of the 2021-22 season, it was the aim of the committee to try and start the Cuxton 91 FC Academy, so I took in to role of Youth development officer for the boys and the Academy was born in the September of 2021.

The Cuxton 91 FC Academy runs 2 sessions on a Saturday morning at Legend Sports, Thong Lane, Gravesend, DA12 4LG. The first session is at 10 until 11 and is for school years 3 to 6, currently we have 16 players. This session is for players that want to play social football without joining a team and players that have shown an interest in joining a team at Cuxton 91. This route into Cuxton 91 help the managers to concentrate on their current team working on match day preparation and drills without having to adjust them for trialists. It also helps the players to integrate into a playing environment without the pressure of being

introduced into an established team, giving them a platform for improvement. This session also sees current Cuxton 91 players that have been through the Academy come back for extra training. 3 players from this session have been placed with a Cuxton 91, with 1 other hopefully being placed ready for next season.

The 11-12 session is for School years R to 2. This session is an introduction into football for the year R’s, we have 21 players across the age ranges. Just as important as the players, our aim is to mentor parents to become Managers and Coaches of the teams coming through.

Before any parent can Manage or coach a Cuxton 91 FC team, they must complete a DBS and the FA certified “Introduction to Coaching Football” coarse, both of which will be paid for by club. From the current group of players in this session there will be a new U7’s and U8’s team for the 2023-24 season.

The committee’s vision for the Academy was Football for all and not just an Academy that takes the best, our aim is to improve players and have them placed with a Cuxton 91 FC team. I have 3 coaches that assist me with the sessions Louis Earley (Assistant Academy Manager), Bradly Ellis and Patrick Taylor, all have a wealth of playing experience at a good level for their young ages.

FRANS THORLEY

I was one amongst a group of Dad’s who got together in late 1995 and started training for our kids.

By early 1996 we decided to try and enter a team in the local Youth League.

We were advised to join up with an existing Cuxton

team, Cuxton 91, which we did and in September 1996 we entered an Under-9 team in the Medway News Youth League.

The main challenges in building the club into its current position has been -

• Finding suitable managers

• Finding suitable pitches and training venues

• Funding the club without charging to much subscription fees, including looking for grants from various bodies

• Finding people to carry out the committee roles

• Finding enough referees

• Once we started our first adult team, then running the club with youth and adult teams and the issues this throws up.

• Dealing with teams and managers who feel they have outgrown Cuxton 91 and trying to deal with high expectations

• Dealing with over enthusiastic parents

Our short term aims are to promote Women’s and Girls football and increase the number of Women and Girls within our club. We are looking to widen our main pitch at Cuxton Social Club from 56 to 64m. We need to do this to keep our first team in its current division.

We are trying to improve the condition of all our pitches at all the locations we use. Initially we started out as a Youth club and the Adult football has grown out of the Youth football. Our current first team has become the focal point for the club but we have never lost sight of the youth section being the foundations of our club and where we began.

Cuxton`s Soccer Academy is for boys and girls and Wildcats Academy is for girls. Our new teams and younger players come out of these two academies.

The mood of the club is very positive at the moment as we are progressing on and off the field. We are extremely fortunate to have fantastic chairmen, who drive the club forward with a great team of volunteers behind them.

Harvey White is currently in the Tottenham Hotspur first team squad and started his career as a youth team player at Cuxton. He still lives in the village with his Mum and Dad. Also, Lara Fay was a youth team player with us and went on to play for Arsenal and England youth teams.

Last season was very successful for the three adult teams in the Kent County Football League. The first team done the double winning Division One Central and East gaining promotion

and the League Cup. The reserves won their version of the League Cup. The Vets came runners-up in their first season gaining promotion to Vets League two.

The U7 Athletic, U11 Cannons and U15 Youth teams all have successful seasons and our two girl’s teams both had fantastic first seasons in the Kent Girls and Ladies League.

We have two youth girl’s teams next season with the U11 Panthers and the U12 Jaguars. Both teams are run by local mums. The girls in both teams are very enthusuastic and both teams have been born out of our successful Wildcats Academy.

This coming season the U11 Panthers manager Karen Copeland is also starting anover-30’s women’s recreational team, which will be another first for the club. Karen is also the women’s/ girls representative on our committee.

We definitely consider ourselves to be a community club. We engage with local businesses in particular Cuxton Social Club plus many others from sponsoring teams for kit and equipment, to advertising on advertising boards alongside our main pitch, to advertising in our first team matchday programme the ‘Leeky Feeder’.

We average about one hundred people at our first team home matches with many villagers coming to the games as much to watch the football as being part of a local social event.

At our recent first team cup final there was a crowd of over 700 with many people travelling from Cuxton to the game at Larkfield. After the game players and supporters returned to the social club to celebrate long into the night.

We like to think our club is a special club as we feel we are a real part of the community.

Not everyone is mad about football, we respect that, but we still want our village and community to be proud of its local club whether they are into football or not.

We think we are one of the cheapest clubs around to play for and our foundations are the hard work put in by all our volunteers.

The best example of this is our Groundsman Paul Reeves. Paul stops by at the Cuxton pitches virtually every day after work plus weekends cutting grass, white-lining plus numerous other jobs. Without Paul’s dedication we would not have the pitches we have. Paul is just one example of the volunteers we have.

Both our Chairmen Lee and John as well as running the club off the pitch more than do their bit off the pitch with Lee assisting Paul Reeves and John running the Wildcats Academy.

We have Jo Chipperfield who is our welfare officer and has been in and around the club for many years.

There are many others who

do their bit including Earl Bourner, who not only runs his son’s youth team the U11 Aces, but is manager of the Vets team and also sits on the committee.

All this commitment and dedication are the foundations of the club and what makes our club a ‘special’ club.

We provide IT support, equipment and services to small and medium business which includes the following services –

• Desktop & Remote IT Support

• AntiVirus or Malware solutions

• Wired or Wireless survey, design and installation

• Hosted Cloud and backup solutions

• Backup of solutions

• Provision of IT equipment

• CCTV Installation and support

01474 878724

support@ejjb.co.uk

LEIGH BENNETT, SUPPORTER & SPONSOR: EJJB CONSULTING LTD.

Around 6/7 months ago I came across a post on social media regarding my local football club Cuxton 91 FC and their interest in attracting sponsorship for their grassroots youth teams. As a local businessman who had built EJJB Consulting Ltd from scratch I had often felt that I would love to give something back to our local community. What better way than to help our young people with new kits and development in football.

After attending the club and speaking to of the coaches, I was so impressed by the attitude of those I met and what

great work they were doing that I decided to sort out one of the team’s home kits and become a sponsor. As it was towards the end of the 2023 season, I only was able to attend 4 or 5 matches, however it was a fantastic experience to see the children be so well organised and play such an impressive standard of football.

It’s been an absolute pleasure to have been provided with the opportunity to give something back to our local community and Cuxton 91 FC. I would like to wish everyone associated with the club all the very best of continued success for the new 2023/2024 campaign!

EMMA

AND

OF STREETS ESTATE, I found my way into the heart of Cuxton 91 Football Club through my son, Brandon. Our journey began in late 2017 and spilled into the dawn of 2018 when we embarked on a quest to find the perfect local football club for Brandon’s budding talent. And in Cuxton, we found a treasure trove of everything we were looking for.

I held a firm belief that the club we chose needed to embody the right set of values, nurturing a healthy and supportive environment for children’s development. Cuxton not only met but exceeded these expectations, making it the ideal choice for young Brandon’s football dreams.

This season, Brandon, known for his blazing speed and penchant for playing as a forward or on the wing, joins the U16 Dynamos—a team in search of a new coach. We extend an open invitation to anyone interested in guiding and mentoring this talented group of youngsters. The Cuxton 91 Football Club has a remarkable community spirit, where parents, coaches, and club members come together

year after year to keep the children engaged and entertained.

Navigating the teenage years can be a daunting challenge for both parents and children, but Cuxton’s close-knit community ensures that everyone lends a helping hand, creating a safe and enjoyable environment for all.

I, along with my father, Mike Griffin, operates a local estate agency business in Strood. Our strong sense of community led us to become team sponsors for the Dynamos. Streets Estate wanted to become a part of supporting Cuxton 91 Football Club’s initiatives.

In closing, myself, Mike, and our dedicated team at Street Estates extend their heartfelt congratulations to the entire club for their well-deserved recognition in Football Focus Magazine. We wish all members of the club continued success throughout the remainder of the 2023/2024 season. It’s a testament to the power of community and shared passion for football— a story of individuals coming together to create something special.

www.streetsestates.co.uk

GREG MAKRILL, COACH & SPONSOR: UK SUB FLOORS LTD

Underfloor Heating Acoustic Floors Semi-Dry Screed Liquid Screeds Leveling Compounds Floor Surface Preparation

Planned and Reactive Maintenance

With over a decade of experience, UK Subfloors Limited has consistently demonstrated accuracy and success when it comes to project delivery. We pride ourselves in tailoring packages to suit the specification of all of our clients, proactively adapting with the industry to meet modern requirements, and delivering end products in a safe and timely manner, offering Acoustic Floors, Underfloor Heating, Floating Floors and many more!

My association with the club is relatively recent. It all began when a group of parents, including myself, decided it was time for a change from the club our children had been involved with. We embarked on a mission to explore our options, interviewing seven different clubs in the process. However, our journey took an unexpected turn when we sat down with the chairman and some of the coaches at Cuxton1991 FC.

As our meeting unfolded and we left the club, we were left utterly overwhelmed by the attitude and opportunities that had been presented to us. It was at that very moment that we knew our search had come to an end, and we had discovered the perfect club and environment for our kids.

always easy for everyone, so a few parents decided to visit Cuxton themselves and draw their own conclusions. Their feedback was instrumental in sealing the deal. They recounted an encounter with a local gentleman who happened to be none other than the hands-on Chairman Lee from the club. It was a sign that we were on the right path.

I took no offense when I was informed, in no uncertain terms, that my coaching qualifications needed some improvement. I understood that within the youth football section of Cuxton, which caters to boys, girls, and disabled players, there’s a commitment to providing much more than just a typical village club.

www.uksubfloors.co.uk

Telephone: 01634 615325

Email: enquiries@uksubfloors.co.uk

Delighted to be associated with the success of Cuxton 1991 FC!

Our decision to make this change was not solely based on football; it was also driven by the fact that many of our children, including my son Louie, were about to transition to high school this year. We believed that demonstrating to them how change can be a positive thing was important.

Of course, change is not

My own experience of Cuxton FC has only been positive. The healthy attention showered upon the kids is truly something to behold; the important thing for me, which I have witnessed many times, is seeing how they walk away from each experience feeling like a million dollars.

CASTILLO, SUPPORTER

SPONSOR

Streets promise to beat any written quotation for sales and lettings

Streets promise to beat any written quotation for sales and lettings hands down!

If your are looking to sell or let your property and would like a free market appraisal simply telephone the office or call in personally to arrange an appointment.

t 01634 730 262

Whether a family home, cosy cottage, city pad, period property, we are simply streets ahead

Stirling Albion FC

Champions Scottish League Two 2022/2023

FOR JIM THOMSON, FOLLOWING STIRLING ALBION WAS A BIT OF A FORGONE CONCLUSION

“My dad was never really a great fan of football but his brothers, my two uncles, are huge Stirling supporters and have been for years, so I started going with them to Annfield Park (Albion’s former ground) when I was a youngster in the early eighties. I was hooked immediately, and this was cemented when I went with school friends to Celtic Park around that time to watch Celtic against Aberdeen. Aberdeen was the top team in Scotland, Celtic Park was at capacity, near seventy thousand and the place was jumping. It ended a 1-1 draw. It was an incredible atmosphere and I had never seen so many people in one place, but when we got back in the car, I learned that the Albion had won 4-1 away from home. I was distraught as I had

never seen us score four away from home. I knew then my heart was at Annfield and the rest, as they say, is history. I then joined the police in my late teens and although I made every effort to get to

games, home and away, shift work and having a young family made it challenging and getting involved as much I would have liked in volunteering etc, almost impossible, however I retired at the end of 2021 and when there were personnel changes at the club at the start of the season just gone, I was asked if I could help with the club shop, I jumped at the chance.

I couldn’t have picked a better season, could I? I love it. I know that it was an easy gig last season, it’s easy when you’re winning and I’m sure there will be tougher days to come, but that’s what supporting a club is all about isn’t it, following through thick and thin, and when it’s a club like Stirling, it can be long periods of thin!

Stirling became the first Scottish league club to be 100% fan owned in May 2009 and it’s fair to say it hasn’t been without its challenges.

“Every football fan has an opinion as to how their club should be run, and when that club is owned entirely by the fans, then there will always be disagreement and the odd falling out, but the main thing is that anything that is done, is done for the good of the club as we face significant challenges just to be able to compete as it is.

We have always suffered from our geographical position in that we are equidistant from both Glasgow and Edinburgh, Scotland’s largest cities. Both are about 40 minutes from Stirling, and it is heartbreaking to see supporters’ buses leave in their droves from Stirling every Saturday heading to grounds of the big clubs in these cities.

When I was younger, going

to football on a Saturday was pretty much all you would consider doing, but youngsters today have so much more choice.

So, getting an attractive product to entice the local community to get down to Forthbank on a Saturday is crucial.

That doesn’t mean of course that the club should not be ambitious. We are part time and want to be the best part time team in the country. We are currently in the process of bringing on directors for key strategic areas such as Commercial, I.T, Youth and Community and other roles key crucial to growing the Albion brand, increasing visibility and making Stirling Albion a club that the community want to get behind.

Director Jim McAllister said: We want to grow our Foundation and expand work in our community partnerships with Active Stirling, Start-up Stirling, Home Start the local Thistles Shopping Centre and Stirling Council Children’s and Families along with Ukranian families recently moved into Stirling having been displaced by war.

We are reviewing our Junior and Youth Academies to see where improvements can be made and looking at an appointment of a full time Football Development Officer.

Our Junior Academy philosophy is simple; To provide enjoyable football for children form the age of 4 and a half upwards. Through fun and engaging coaching. We teach our young players not only about the game, but about respect for others, loyalty, the acceptance of rules and decisions, self-discipline and the need for teamwork irrespective of race, colour, religion, sex, sexuality or disabilities.

Stirling Albion were formed by Coal Merchant, Tam Fergusson in 1945 after Stirling’s previous senior football team, King Park, folded. A German bomb dropped on King’s Park’s ground in July 1940, caused extensive damage and the club never recovered financially.

Mr Fergusson purchased Annfield Estate, a mere quarter mile from the city centre and a football ground was built there for the new club.

Annfield would be the home of the Albion until 1992 when they moved out and shared with local rivals Stenhousemuir before taking up residency in their new home at Forthbank Stadium in 1993.

For the first twenty years of their existence Stirling earned the nickname the “Yo Yo’s” as they were promoted and

relegated several times over that period.

In 1966, Stirling Albion became the first British Club to tour and play in Japan.

In 1984, Stirling recorded a record breaking 20-0 win over Selkirk in the Scottish Cup

In 1987, Annfield was the first ground in Scotland to install an artificial turf, an idea by the local the council who had purchased the ground some years earlier.

Ironically Stirling will be the only club in Scotland’s League 1 this season that play on grass,

every other team having some form of synthetic surface.

Jim Thomson continued.

”The mood at the club just now is very positive, which is understandable given we have just won the league. There seems to be a real connection with the current team and the fans which is really important and speaking with the supporters in the club shop, the new season is one which we are all looking forward to with excitement. It’s a good place to be”.

“Two of the more

recognisable players to have played for the Albion in recent years are Robert Snodgrass who was on loan at the club for six months back in 2007 and became a firm favourite of the support particularly after he scored two goals in the promotion play off final that year to see Albion promoted.

The other is Jay Rodriguez, another loanee, this time from Burnley in 2008

Both players were just teenagers when at the Albion, but it was clear to see even

back then they would have big careers in football”.

“I don’t think last season could have gone any better, the championship being won, the attractive football being played, and seeing some faces return to Forthbank that I hadn’t seen in a long time, it was just great.

As for next season, it’s a step up against teams, some of whom are full time with bigger budgets but that doesn’t always guarantee success.

I personally would be delighted with consolidation in the league and building on the already strong foundations being built on and off the park at the club”.

When you are dealing with gates of hundreds as opposed to thousands every week then sponsors are incredibly important and we are very fortunate to have very generous and loyal sponsors who, with their backing, assist

us in trying to develop all aspects of the club both on and off the field.

“I love the club, it’s that simple. It’s been a massive part of my life since I was young, and I know that is the same for every Albion fan who sits in the stands at Forthbank on a Saturday and travels the length of the country every other week just to support the team.

Following a club like the Albion, we won’t get success every year, it is very unlikely we would reach one of the national cup finals and we certainly won’t see global footballing stars pulling on the red and white, but that’s okay, it’s our club and every success the club has is acutely felt and enjoyed by every one of the Forthbank faithful. If I can play a small part in that by staffing the club shop for a couple of hours on a match day, then that’s what makes it a great place to be”

Jim McAllister said: We are developing a women’s football team but at the moment we have a rapidly expanding girls’ section with teams at U12, U14 and U9s.

Our Junior Academy is very important to us and in recent years has seen the number of players involved go from a handful to over 320 boys and girls taking part from 4 years old upwards.

We pride ourselves in being at the heart of the community in Stirling. We work with may local partners and through our charitable arm, Stirling Albion foundation, we are increasing participation in sporting activities for all ages and working with local stakeholders to address local social issues.

We have known of Stirling Albion FC for many years as they have been an integral part of the Stirlingshire community. We decided to become a club partner 2 years ago and last season was a great achievement for the club and their widespread supporters. They are a very valuable hub in our local community, and we would like to acknowledge the great service they provide to everyone. Andrew Anderson & Sons Funeral Directors are a local company who pride themselves on their commitment to providing the highest standards and service to local people. We would like to congratulate everyone at Stirling Albion FC on being crowned Champions last season and wish them continued success for the 2023/2024 campaign!

ROSS R. ANDERSON DIP. FD. MANAGING DIRECTOR

Newcastle Blue Star FC

STEVE BEST, CLUB CHAIRMAN

I Wanted to bring BL Star back to life but to locate it in a neighbourhood that needed a focal point and also to have a club/facility for them to be proud of.

There were a number of issues to get us to where we are today including the Area we are situated in, which has a stigma attached to it that we are trying to overcome. Covid, which hurt everyone not just football, and then finding “real football” people to help steer the ship that is Newcastle Blue Star.

Our ambitions are like most clubs to progress through the leagues & who knows what the limit is for a club like ours, we are unique in everything we do. We are having

planning permission for a new 500-seater stand with a 350 seated function room, and we are also looking to incorporate a 4G surface onto one of our 11aside pitches to allow 24/7 football for everyone.

Yes, we do have a footballing philosophy, we provide a pathway for kids to develop from 5yrs old to adults playing total football & creating a fantastic safe environment to do that in.

A number of our players have joined the academy system at professional clubs; however, we are more concerned about building Newcastle Blue Star and improving relationships with those clubs for the future.

Our history speaks for itself, add to that the drive & ambition of a committee that

are relentless & demand the best, we are unique in our location & togetherness, this West End Community is what separates us from any other club.

JONATHAN TABERHAM, CLUB TREASURER. My involvement came about right at the inception of the club back in 2018. My nephew played for Grainger Park FC (alongside Steve Bests son) which became Newcastle Blue Star. I was just a supporter of the club during the formation of the club but was asked a number of times to get more involved. It was the vision, drive and determination of our Chairman Steve Best that eventually won me over and it’s a decision I have not regretted one bit. I’m born and bred in this area, and used to play on the fields where our pitches are as a kid. The way the club has developed and grown over the 5 years we have been in existence is truly remarkable, from the open fields to the fantastic stadium, from the initial 4 teams to over twenty teams now, from crowds of one man and his dog to over one thousand in the 11tth Tier, these are just some of the examples of how we have

developed in a short space of time.

The main challenges we faced was the global pandemic back in 2020 which effectively wiped out 2 full seasons. We were sitting top of the league in the middle of March and looking odds on for promotion to the Northern League when the season was curtailed. It was not only the challenge that this had on the field but given we were a new, upcoming club who were undertaking a great deal of development on our site.

The rate at which the club has grown over such a short period of time has also been a challenge. It has meant we have needed huge numbers of volunteers. As with most non-league clubs it is the volunteers that are the lifeblood of this club and getting people in who share the beliefs and values of the club is key. We are very grateful to the people who give their time and skills for free for the love of the club doing things that go unnoticed and unappreciated by most but not to us as a club. We couldn’t achieve things we have without them.

We strive to be the best both on and off the pitch. On it we want to progress up

“Feel Like you belong!”

“We are unique in our location & togetherness, this West End Community is what separates us from any other club!”

the football pyramid starting this season with the Northern League division 2. We want to win the league its as simple as that. A run in the Vase would be great.

Off the pitch we are constantly looking to improve the facilities both for the players at the club and also the fans experience while coming to watch the games. We want to install a 4G pitch which will benefit not only our whole club from juniors to seniors but also the whole surrounding community.

We also hope to keep developing our junior players as best we can and give them the opportunity to best display their skills and hopefully get them into professional clubs. Last season we had 3 of our junior players sign schoolboy forms with Newcastle United which is reward for the coaches at the club.

We do not have any women’s football teams, however going into this season we will now have 2 junior girls teams. This has come about from our popular girls only development sessions where places are filled as soon as they become available. There is a lot of focus and excitement in the women’s/ girl’s game with the success of the England Lionesses and this is an area we are actively looking to continue to grow.

Non-League and grassroots clubs can not survive without the generous and valuable contribution of sponsors to the club. We have some great sponsors involved with our club, in particular our three Main Club Sponsors

KD Building Solutions, Mutliconnect and TQD Limited. We have many local businesses who commit to our club regularly whether that’s through taking an advertising board, sponsoring a junior teams strips, or even providing services free of charge. We are lucky that a lot of our sponsors continue to back us season after season and this adds to the family and community feel of the club that everyone wants to be involved and do what they can for the club and the area.

The family and community feel of Newcastle Blue Star Football Club is very special and you see and feel it from the development sessions through the junior teams all the way through to the first team. Senior matchdays are such a great experience with the junior teams being ballboys and mascots and all the local community coming out in support of the club. We have had many special nights and get some great crowds and cant thanks our supporters enough.

JOHN GRAHAM, CLUB SECRETARY.

I became involved as secretary of the first team just over 3 years ago, with absolutely no experience in the role, so I have had to learn on the job, it’s been a steep learning curve and I have made mistakes, but thankfully only 1 of those errors has cost us points, and the fans, management and players are very understanding.

Now I have more experience and I am more

confident in the role, however it’s a whole new ball game in the Northern League and its very unforgiving if you get it wrong.

The journey has been a joyous ride for all including our fans who are very knowledgeable and highly expectant. We are growing at a huge rate sometimes it feels like being in control of a juggernaut, but we are building a stable foundation on which the future looks bright.

The challenge has always been to get the right people in place to move us forward, and ones who have the same

ideals and principals as our chairman: that of being a successful football club in the heart on Scotswood. The football club isn’t just about the 1st team either, it is about bringing the “kids” in young and getting them to feel a pride in who they are and who they play for and to have them wanting to stay with the club and be successful in whatever they do.

Success for the 1st team breads a feeling of confidence right down the club ladder and our juniors regularly act as ball boys/girls for matches played at Scotswood, seeing them smile as they walk out makes it all worth the effort.

We have huge ambition and want a successful team in the Northern League as well as successful juniors’ teams right through the club. We want to build partnerships with our local community hubs and businesses.

Our plans include building a more permanent club house beside the pitch with facilities not just for football but also for the community to use be that for meetings, warm zones or just a drop in area where you can catch up with friends or even catch a game of football.

Our philosophy is about educating people of all ages and ethnic backgrounds, be that Senior or Junior, in the benefits of healthy living and sport certainly fits that bill. Youth football coaching is crucial as we believe it instils as sense of belonging, of feeling part of something and a discipline that team sports require.

Our club strap line has long been “Feel Like you belong”.

A LITTLE OF OUR HISTORY: Newcastle Blue Star joined the Wearside league back in 1973 playing at Druid Park on the Wheatsheaf Ground, and we can say they had “some success”, you may have heard they won the FA Vase in 1978 :-) , They were also promoted to the Northern League after that, however there were a lot of off field issues which culminated in the collapse of the club, then in 2018 our current chairman Steve Best, had a huge desire to have a football club in the heart of his home in the West End of Newcastle and Newcastle

Blue Star was reborn. We are now one of the fastest growing amateur football clubs on the Northeast of England and Steve`s vision is to bring success to the club. That success started with an open field in the heart of Scotswood and now we have a growing stadium and a growing number of football teams ranging from U7 to our senior teams, each one of those teams enjoying different levels of success, the First Team success culminating in promotion into the Northern League last season.

Tony Quinn Drilling Ltd Cable Percussion Boring

The club is on a high at the moment, from the seniors through to the junior players everyone is excited for what we have achieved and the possibilities for the future. We are where have wanted to be for some time and we are all loving it; however we don’t take anything for granted, we are here because we earned the right be here but we have to maintain a high level of performance both on and off the field to keep us where we are.

Two of our biggest “claims to fame” if you like, come in the guise of our former manager Kenny Wharton, well known former Newcastle United full back, and club coach another former Newcastle United player, Midfielder Lee Clark, both had great impacts on the club as we started growing and we are forever grateful for their part in our recent history.

22/23 season was hugely successful, we won the prestigious “Benevolent Bowl” we finished runners up the League Cup, and then were crowned Premier League Champions, that is a successful season in our eyes.

As for our ambitions, we want to emulate our predecessors and win the FA Vase, and get promoted to the Northern League 1st Division, were not really bothered

THEA & TONY QUINN, SUPPORTERS & MAIN SPONSORS: TONY QUINN DRILLING LTD.

Tony and I grew up in Westerhope, Newcastle and have always been big football fans. Living in the North East everybody wanted to play football and for Blue Star, including Tony who also had trials for Newcastle United in his youth. It’s wonderful to watch the club progress in the way that it has since its resurgence in 2018 and now to be recognised for their great contribution to football, and as the fastest growing club in the North of England, is in itself a fantastic achievement.

This season we were delighted to increase our sponsorship with Tony Quinn Drilling Ltd and become a main club sponsor. I suppose it’s a real family affair and occasion for us with our granddaughter Summer, who loves the celebrity status when meeting new players, and our son Andrew are both avid fans; Nephews Jak & Charlie Quinn are both very good youth players at the club also. This year Tony will soon be celebrating his birthday at Blue Star and we always like to bring our friends along to

which order that comes in, but we are working very hard on both fronts to make it happen sooner rather than later, so watch this space is all I will say!

We encourage girls of all ages to come along and play football with us, however currently we do not have a Women’s football team, but we are actively seeking one to join us, so if anyone reading this article has involvement with women’s football and is interested in joining Newcastle Blue Star, come along to the club and talk to us.

Most definitely we are a community club, the community is at the heart of the reason for this club coming into existence, most of the people involved in the club come from or live in the area, including our chairman whose initial vision brought the club back to life. The majority of our junior footballers come from the local catchment area. We have good links with local community businesses such as The Friends of Denton Dene and Scotswood Garden and we have a partnership with Excelsior Academy, which is situated just over the road from us, we also have a great relationship with Grainger Park Boxing club who are our “neighbours” on the site.

Our Sponsors are our life blood, we could not have the success we are achieving

enjoy the great atmosphere, as well as our staff, many of which who are fans of the club.

As a football club

Newcastle Blue Star are now attracting players from all over the North East having built a tremendous reputation as a friendly & family oriented club that are going places. I also feel It is so important to mention how professional the coaches all are at Blue Star, they are a real asset to the club and so dedicated to their teams.

There is nothing better than seeing the little dots, as I call them, running about on the pitch enjoying themselves with great smiles on their faces in healthy and happy competition. One of the main things that stands out above all else with Blue Star is the second to none community spirit they exhibit. Tony, myself, our family and everybody at Tony Quinn Drilling Ltd would like to congratulate everyone at the club on another great start to the season and wish all our teams the very best of continued success for the remainder of the 2023/2024 campaign!

Very proud sponsors of Newcastle Blue Star FC!

without the involvement of the likes of Online Engineering, KD Building Solutions & Multiconnect Services who are just a few names but there are many more who are integral to our future.

Newcastle Blue Star is more than just another football club, it is part of the community, we have young & old boys and girls, we welcome anyone and everyone to the club.

MANAGER: I first became involved at the end of the 2021/22 season when I was asked by the chairman to come in and help out for the last 5 games of the season. After that we had a few discussions which resulted in me taking the manager’s job for 2022/23 season.

The main challenge last year getting players from a

and play step 7 football. Luckily, they trusted us as a management team and believed in what we wanted to do as a club which was build and progress through the leagues.

Our ambition for the playing side of the club is to progress through the northern league as quickly as we can. This will not be easy as the competition in both leagues is strong with other

thing.

The ultimate aim is to play as high a standard of football as we can whilst growing the club at all levels.

We are about making sure there is a pathway for younger players to progress into the first team. We want to play aggressive attacking football built on solid defensive foundations. We want all our teams to be play out from the back and be comfortable in possession. Junior football is vital and the main part of the club.

At first team level it went well winning the league and a cup. This year the ambition is to get promoted and have a run in the FA Vase if possible. This is important to help grow the club. We know how difficult this is going to be though.

We have had very successful open days at Newcastle Blue Star Football Club where we have had guests and general public from our catchment area coming into the club to see what we offer, not just in footballing terms either. We have close links with our local counsellors and our PCC. who are all supporters of what we are doing in “Scotswood”.

BRIAN SMITH

DARREN ARKLEY, SUPPORTER & SPONSOR: KD BUILDING SOLUTIONS. In the world of football, my dad, Gerald, was always a bit detached, never quite catching the fever that captivates so many. But in a twist of fate around 2019, he stumbled upon Newcastle Blue Star Football Club shortly after its formation. Little did we know that this encounter would lead to our family getting involved.

For us, going to matches has become a family tradition. My wife, Amanda, and my mother, Patricia, are now part of the Blue Star family.

The previous season was truly outstanding for the club, leaving us all in awe of the team’s performance. As we enter the challenges of competing in a higher division this season, we know the hurdles are greater. However, the addition of some outstanding new talent to our team has provided hope and confidence.

Our dedicated fan base remains one of our greatest assets, providing unwavering support whether we’re playing at home or away. Their passionate enthusiasm motivates our players to give their best on the field.

In Steve Best, we’ve found a leader who together with many other club stalwarts have turned Newcastle Blue Star into more than just a football club. It’s a safe haven

where local children and anyone looking for a sense of belonging can come together and enjoy the game.

For our company, KD Building Solutions, it’s a tremendous honour to see our logo prominently displayed on the club’s jerseys and training gear. It reflects our commitment to the club and the community it serves.

Newcastle Blue Star FC holds a special place in the hearts of many, located in an underprivileged area in the West End of Newcastle. These communities often need extra support, and this great club provides just that. My hope is that it continues to thrive for many more years, making a meaningful impact on the lives it touches.

As we enter into the more challenging 2023/2024 campaign, I want to extend my best wishes to all our teams, supporters, and fans. Together, we’ll face whatever the season brings, united by our shared love for Newcastle Blue Star Football Club.

MARK WOOD, MULTICONNECT COMMUNICATIONS.

I’m Mark Wood, a proud supporter and sponsor representing Multiconnect Communications. My roots are firmly embedded in Newcastle, and as a lad from this city, I spent my youth kicking a football around on the very pitches where you

now witness Newcastle Blue Star’s home fixtures. Over the years, I’ve had the privilege of playing for local clubs, and during that time, I became aware of Steve Best’s passion for football and his vision of building a thriving community club in a part of the North East that hadn’t received much attention before. To me, it sounded like a fantastic idea.

Coincidentally, around the same time, I embarked on my journey as a business owner. When the club began its search for support and sponsorship, I couldn’t have been happier to jump on board this noble project. It was an opportunity I simply couldn’t resist.

Unfortunately, due to the demands of my work, I wasn’t able to attend as many matches last season as I would have liked. But this campaign, I’m determined to make amends. It’s incredibly heartening to see the lads kick off another season with such vigor and determination, currently occupying a strong position in the league standings.

What has truly inspired both myself and Neil, my business partner, is the tremendous commitment of Newcastle Blue Star Football Club to providing local children with the chance to play sports. Not only that, but they also offer a clear pathway, all within one club, for these young talents to progress to senior football.

BUILDERS YOU CAN TRUST

Whether you are looking for a wall partitioning for your business or a new kitchen in your home, turn to our construction company. At KD Building Solutions, we provide high-quality building services for domestic and commercial clients throughout the North East.

It’s a rare and remarkable initiative that speaks volumes about the club’s dedication to the community.

On behalf of Neil, myself, and the entire Multiconnect Communications team, I extend my heartfelt congratulations to Steve and the entire Blue Star family, both on and off the pitch. Your tireless efforts in Scotswood and throughout the city of Newcastle Upon Tyne are truly commendable. Keep up the fantastic work!

Very proud main sponsors of Newcastle Blue Star FC

We have years of experience in the design, installation, testing and certification of structured cabling installations that provide infrastructure for today’s IT and telephone systems.

Snodland Town FC

“One Club Serving the Community”

“Watch out FA Cup, here they come!”

ALAN TOTHAM DIRECTOR OF MARKETING

My involvement with the club started around 2010 when there was a move afoot to combine all the adult and youth teams in Snodland into one community club and to obtain its own ground. I was asked to join the committee to help this process and to then progress the club onwards and up the footballing pyramid. I took on the role of producing the matchday programme, controlling the club website, social media and various other marketing aspects. During the development of the ground with new facilities I helped our Director of Development, Mel Rayfield, to project manage the building of new changing rooms and hospitality.

The thirteen years so far have been a rollercoaster of a ride as the club went from a Kent County League side playing on a local council pitch through to what is now a Southern Counties East Football League side that has its own enclosed ground with great new facilities in a very short period of time.

Off the field we had to negotiate a lease for our ground from the local council which took around 2 years and was achieved finally in 2012. We had been allocated an open area of an existing playing field and from scratch we had to build a complete stadium to allow us to progress up the footballing ladder. This included, fencing, floodlights, grandstand, changing rooms and hospitality etc.

To carry out all this work we needed funds, and we are very thankful to the Football Foundation along with sponsorship from local businesses and loans from the board of directors. Without this money we would never be where we are today.

On the field we stayed in the Kent County League for a few seasons whilst the ground was bought up to step 6 standard and in season 2016/17 played our first game in the first division of the Southern Counties East Football League.

It took a few managers coming and going until we secured the services of our current manager, Luke Wallond, and his management team. Following a couple of seasons disrupted by Covid, Luke then assembled a squad of players of the right quality, commitment, and enthusiasm to bring us success in the league.

Having achieved promotion, we obviously want to consolidate our league position and push on for further advancement up the football ladder. Luke Wallond has had a busy close season strengthening the squad for the coming campaign and we are sure success on the pitch will continue.

Although we have been in the FA Vase for a few seasons now, history will be made in August when we enter the FA Cup for the first time ever. A milestone for the club and town.

Off the field we also want to continue developing and improving the facilities

for our supporters, visiting fans and players. A further covered area enabling 100 people to stand will be in place very soon and we are currently looking at installing a 4G pitch in a year or two. Our grandstand seating is planned for extending from 120 to 200 seats and a dedicated hospitality area for visiting directors is also in the pipeline.

We have a full management and coaching structure throughout the club at all levels from our Under 6s through to adult teams. Each team has its own dedicated manager and assistants’ structure. In our youth section most managers stay with their team through the various age groups up to Under 18s.

With the euphoria of promotion, the mood in the club has never been better. This success has had added bonuses in attracting better players wanting to come and play for us and increasing the

number of youth teams we will be fielding this coming season.

Our clubhouse atmosphere is great and, in all honesty, has been ever since it was completed with everybody, players, managers, club officials and fans, all mixing in.

We are all looking forward to what the coming season in step 5 football is going to bring.

When the 22/23 season started many had us as one of the favourites to win promotion so there was a bit of pressure for manager Luke. As the season progressed, we were always there or there abouts at the top of the division but with a few astute signings, Luke assembled the right squad for the final push and thanks to all the efforts put in, the league title was secured with two games in hand.

Our spectator attendance at matches was always one of highest in the division and we achieved over 700 for the title winning game against

Meridian VP.

For the coming season we obviously want to consolidate our Premier Division status but at the same time take every opportunity, to push some very good sides we are going to come up against, for a top half, possible play-off position.

We are also very excited about our first ever entry into the FA Cup. We have unfortunately been drawn away at Broadfields United, but we go there looking for progression in the competition.

Other success came from our Veterans side who won the top division in the Kent County League.

At present we do not have a women’s/girls’ team, but it is certainly something we would take every opportunity to introduce. We do however have several girls in our youth teams who have integrated with the boys as mixed teams.

“

The 2022/23 campaign was a great success, we ended up comfortably winning the league with a few games to go in front of over 700 home fans. Luke his management team and all the players consistently delivered all season, and we were worthy winners. We now face step 5, for the first time in the club’s history, in the SCEFL Premier Division. It’s going to be a very tough season but with the improvements on and off the field I know we are hoping to get into the playoff places which would be another great achievement.”

this coming season we will be fielding a record number of 25 teams over these age groups as well as having our Fun Football for children of 5 and under and look forward to our youth players being our first team players of the future!

We are very much a community club and are the largest membership-based club or organisation in the town of Snodland. Our mission statement is “One Club Serving the Community”.

we currently have.

We have had help from the Football Foundation and local businesses as well significant help from The Snodland Partnership, an initiative that supports local clubs, charities and individuals with financial help. We like to think we have a great relationship with all our sponsors and the more success we can have on the field the more exposure we can give them.

bought into the vision we have to put the club on map.

I would like to pay tribute to a few other people who have guided the club over the past years. Mel Rayfield, a past chairman and more recently our Director of Development who has project managed almost single handedly all the building work that has taken place in the ground.

Youth football has always been a very important part of the club since bringing all the football clubs in Snodland under one umbrella.

We have regularly entered teams from Under 6 through to Under 18 each season and

We work closely with the local council helping out with their events and have helped various organisations hold charity matches at our ground.

Without our sponsors Snodland Town Football Club would not be in the position we are today. Their financial support has been invaluable and has allowed us to develop the excellent ground facilities

Snodland Town are like a family. The club is run by an executive committee drawn from people across all aspects of the club. There is no outright owner dictating their thoughts, we make decisions for the good of the club in a democratic way.

There is a great togetherness right through the club from the committee through to youth player parents and everyone has

Peter Wilson, our Director of Finance, who has been associated with football in Snodland (in particular the youth) for more years than he cares to remember. And similarly, our Secretary, Terry Reeves, a stalwart of the club who has been involved with Snodland football since his playing days. Finally Dave Jeal who took on the mantle of Chairman from Mel Rayfield and has been the man at the helm for a few years now.

QUOTE FROM DAVE JEAL, CHAIRMAN

Colden Common FC

HPFL Senior Division Champions and Treble Winners!

History Makers!

IAN STEELE

CLUB SECRETARY

I joined Colden Common FC at the tender age of 13 and I have been involved ever since as I simply fell in love with the club . First as a player, second as a committee member and on to become Gopher, Programme compiler and Editor, Secretary and, like every volunteer, I do what I can to help.

The reason I fell head over heels was purely and simply the welcoming atmosphere encouraged and the desire emphasised by my Common hero, Cliff Banford. His father Jack (RiP) and sister Angie were both involved with the club which emphasised the family atmosphere; an atmosphere that we hope we

have retained to this day. The club was founded in 1898, re-formed in 1956, and is one of the most popular clubs in the area.

When I joined (1969) we played at Main Road Recreation Ground, Colden Common which was lovingly tended by Eric Laversuch(RIP) who was a “Commoner” man & boy for over 75 years. We competed in the Eastleigh League but subsequently progressed (via Southampton Junior and Senior Leagues) to the Hampshire League by 1984, and then the Wessex League (for two seasons) before Ground Grading left a large number of clubs, like ourselves, without sufficient facilities. So the Hampshire Premier Football League came

into existence for season 2007/08 - the founding committee was led by George Mason (Fleetlands) and I was honoured to be invited to sit on that committee.

As with most Grassroots Clubs Colden Common FC have enjoyed ‘major successes’ and endured lean times but, we are proud of a record that shows we have never been relegated since our first venture (1984) into the original Hampshire League, despite being a small village club.

Led by Steve Davenport, our Chairman of three years, we aspire to seek to progress our players through ‘Development’ League’s and into our First team but, due to circumstances, we were left with just one team, our 1st team, for the start of last season, 2022/23, and, as the season went on, anticipated a

mass exodus at the end of it.

In 2021/22 we secured our third Hampshire Premier Football League, Senior Division, championship while our Development side lifted the Hampshire Combination & Development League’s West Division title as well as winning the Supplementary Cup. However, our Development managers left and our search for a suitable replacement proved fruitless while the majority of our Development squad were happy not to play at all. Our successful Veterans squad (Southampton Veterans League Cup Winners in 2021/22) also folded to leave just one side, which makes our Treble-winning achievement all the more remarkable.

But, maybe the decimation of our playing options was a blessing in disguise because, as a Club, we then re-thought our ethos and aims.However, back to a treble-winning season!

Our managers at the time, Nathan Morgan and Connor Doswell, with Jamie Nash at their side, managed to retain virtually all of our players from the title-winning season, 2021/22, and after an

opening home draw against newly-promoted Andover New Street Swifts, and a loss to Clanfield in our third game, Common started a remarkable run of sixteen League and Cup games unbeaten, 15 wins and 1 draw from Aug 20th to Nov 26th before we slipped up in the Russell Cotes Cup.

The loss was at Wessex Division one side Millbrook (in November) which was disappointing, but that failed to halt the momentum we were building as we then embarked (from Dec 3rd to April 10th) upon a run of 15 wins and two draws. That run included a pulsating Hampshire Saturday Trophy Final against Yateley United (having beaten Clanfield in the semi-final) which we managed to win by the odd-goal-inthree. Our run came to an end when Clanfield completed a League ‘Double’ by beating us on April 15th, 2023

From December 21st to the start of May, we were

unable to use our home ground, Oakwood Park, because of a damaging flood in our pavilion, so we had to ‘groundhop’ to use whatever facilities were availablethanks to Millbrook FC and Sherfield English.

We secured the HPFL L4 Teamwear League Cup by defeating Locks Heath 3-1 and then focus was on retaining the League Title.

Our management team were becoming expert in utilising the bench to make telling substitutions through the campaign and plenty of those replacements ensured we saw a game out or recovered in the final minutes to force a positive result.

The league title (and that historic ‘Treble’) was secured on Saturday May 20th,2023, when we defeated Whitehill & Bordon 4-0 at Oakwood Park, and we were with the trophy after the game. The final three games of a long campaign were negotiated

Skipper Aaron Blaxall holds the League Championship Trophy midst delighted Commoners

without defeat culminating, on May 27th, in an 8-1 defeat of visiting Stockbridge with aspiring talent, Joe Ryan, netting five!

A brilliant season that had it’s issues but ended with Colden Common FC being the first club in HPFL history (and, possibly in Hampshire League history) to secure the Treble of Hampshire Saturday Trophy, League Cup and a second successive HPFL Senior Division Championship. Many congratulations to the management, staff and players, in particular Common’s and the HPFL leading goalscorer, Leon Course, and especially to skipper Aaron Blaxall who led from the front, netting some 28 goals, making his 100th appearance for the club on May 27th, 2023, and in keeping his fellow players ‘focussed on the prize’!!

As previously mentioned, the upshot of such trophy success was that the managers and players wanted to test themselves further up the Pyramid and, as we do not have the facilities to progress, they all moved one step higher to Wessex League Division One; we wish them well.

As a start point to recover from the anticipated exodus, the two Dave’s, Riddell and Egerton, looked at various clubs where youth had

been the main focus and we decided that should be prevalent for Colden Common FC from the start of 2023/24.

The next move for us was to try to forge a better relationship with Colden Common Youth FC, a successfully run club concentrating on the development of Young players up to Under 18. Several of the adults involved are former Colden Common FC players and they welcomed the potential introduction of a ‘pathway’ by which players could progress into open-age football if they so desired. Colden Common Youth FC have also formed (for the coming season and beyond) a girls team to allow the girls to play a sport they love, compete and cater for the upsurge in the demand for Womens football.

So we sought a manager who possessed the same ideals and our Vice Chairman, Dave Egerton, recalled an individual who we had previously interviewed - he made a massive impression - several years previously, a certain Steve King

Steve is active in Gosport Borough FC’s youth set-up, was head Coach at Baffins Milton Rovers and has managed at Fleetlands FC and, he was keen to ‘buy in’!

Having accepted the roles of 1st team manager and head coach he set about appointing his ‘staff’ and we are delighted to welcome coaches Conner Agar and Luke Ryman, as well as kit man Gary Kirton. We have also, in harness with Steve King, been active in convincing Pedro Monteiro (Pele) and Ruben Pinto to take on our re-formed Development squad that will compete in Division One of the Hampshire Combination and Development League.

A COMMON HISTORY TO 2023

Founded 1898 www. coldencommonfc.club Reformed 1956. Successive HPFL, Senior Division, championships (2021/22 and 2022/23) and a history-making TREBLE in 2022/23 (adding the Hampshire Saturday Trophy and the L4 Teamwear HPFL League Cup to the title win, noted above) made last season one to remember, a history-making campaign. However, following such success there is often a ‘mass exodus’ and CCFC’s ‘squad of 2022/23’

The value is in the difference.

We’re a strategic, creative and digital partner, helping businesses to increase the commercial impact of their brands.

Contact us 01489 892 602 hello@frostcreative.co.uk frostcreative.co.uk

GARY FROST, SUPPORTER AND SPONSOR: FROST CREATIVE.

Colden Common FC is a well-established local club that continues to excel despite the challenges it faces. One particular obstacle hindering their progress in the leagues is the need for support & assistance with facilities like floodlighting etc. Nonetheless, they have always found a way to persevere, thanks in large part to the many unsung heroes within the club. From the dedicated groundsman who is out there almost every day to the numerous volunteers who generously donate their time, all these individuals, no matter how

small their contributions may seem, play a crucial role in the club’s success.

As a former Vets player, I have always felt a desire to give back to the club, and I have done so through sponsorship. Colden Common FC serves as a genuine focal point for people from all walks of life in our region, and it’s heartwarming to witness the well-deserved recognition they are receiving for the vital role they play in our local community.

I extend my congratulations from both myself and the entire team at Frost Creative. We wish you all the best for the remainder of the 2023/2024 campaign.

Every brand has a unique story to tell. We’ll help you to define yours.

was no different.

However, Steve King, his coaches and kit-man walked into Oakwood Park and have proceeded to put their collective stamp on CCFC! Steve was chosen from a number of quality applicants but that’s not all!!! Pedro Pele Monteiro and Ruben Pinto also joined us to nurture our Development squad, competing in the HCDL, and the future is one of optimism!

Colden Common FC was reformed in 1956, primarily by the Banford family, as a Saturday side in the Eastleigh League. However, Common had cause to thank their successful Sunday ‘wing’ for developing the foundations laid by Cliff and Jack Banford and instigating a staggering rise through the Saturday league’s during the late 1980’s and early 1990’s.

Originally competing within the Eastleigh and Southampton Junior League’s, honours were sparse with just the Eastleigh Benevolent Cup and Southampton Junior Division 4 title to show. However, the decision to field a Sunday League side ~ 1973 to 1983 ~ preceded an incredible haul of 24 league and cup honours, under the managerial guidance of Ron Shaw, Steve Clarke, Mick Geddes and Clive Jenvey, and the impetus for our Saturday side’s to also make rapid strides forward. Our journey from Southampton Junior Division 2 to Hampshire League Division 1 took just six years and included

grooming the likes of England international’s GRAHAM ROBERTS and STEVE GUPPY as we further progressed to the Wessex League before settling in our current level, Hampshire Premier Football League. More recently we have also played an integral part in young CCFC players progressing to Wessex Premier level with one of them coveted by Swansea.

We historically support both young and old - a newly-formed tie up with CCYFC, to, hopefully, provide aspiring players football throughout an ‘adult’ career but, unfortunately, a successful Veterans squad folded through lack of players last year.

The Banford’s? Yes, still represented as both Angie and Cliff are major supporters and contributors to The Common Cause. Also the Dunford name lives long in our memories and they have returned to provide invaluable sponsorship.

Any small club like ourselves needs a strong backroom ‘staff’ and we have been extremely fortunate to have some long-serving loyal servants, including Eric Laversuch – 75 years a Commoner man and boy (RiP), Steve Long, Dave Egerton and many others – and committed sponsors who combine to make Colden Common FC ‘the friendly club’, and it is acknowledged that it is… a grande olde team to play for.

Horndean FC

“League and Cup Double Winners!”

JACK NORRIS HEAD OF MEDIA

I first became involved with the club aged 17 in July 2021, when I began running the club’s social media pages as a journalism student at college. Since then, I have taken on additional media work including writing match reports and becoming the club programme editor. I took on the role as I wanted to support my local club as well as being able to gain some valuable experience in sports media.

My role at Horndean involves the day to day running of all social media platforms including Twitter, Instagram, Facebook and our Website. This involves promoting the club online, keeping followers well informed of news around the club and updating followers regularly on a matchday with results. It also involves marketing, trying to make attract new attention to the club in the form of sponsorship and new supporters.

A special thankyou and mention to our outstanding Management Team. Without their hard work, dedication, loyalty and commitment we wouldn’t have reached the historic hights of this 2022/23 season!

• Michael Birmingham (Manager)

• Dutchy Holland (Coach)

• Darren Robson (Coach)

• Chris Wye (Coach)

• Jason Mann (Assistant Manager)

• Phil Braithwaite (GK Coach)

• Hannah Meaden (Physio)

CATLIN CLUB CHAIRMAN

I first became involved with Horndean FC as a player back in 1983. I was asked to join after leaving Waterlooville Youth Team and spending a couple of seasons playing in the Portsmouth Premier League for the Civil Service. Dave Reid was the first team manager at the time and the team were founder members of the newly formed Wessex League. I left a couple of seasons later to join Petersfield Town. I returned again in 1992 under Trevor King and Paul Sexton and enjoyed a successful season as a senior player. I left to become a manager with Portfield in the Sussex County League and 26 years as a manager with Chichester City, Petersfield Town, Fleet Town, Andover Town, Gosport Borough and Portchester. My most successful period was with Gosport Borough where we reached the final of the FA Trophy in 2014 and Back-to-

back promotions from the southern league into the National South.

In my first season back at the Club I was the General Manager. My role was to support the 1st team Manager Mike Birmingham, his staff and players and form a link to the committee and Chairman David Sagar. Our main focus was to generate more income through commercial activity to support the costs of running our football club.

This first season back for me the Team finished 4th in the league. Last season I stepped up to take over as Chairman as David Sagar became ill with cancer and unfortunately passed away in December. The main challenges were to improve the squad and to try and win the league. We achieved this and also won the Portsmouth Senior Cup at Fratton Park to end the most successful season in the Clubs History. This 2023/2024 campaign sees Horndean playing at step 4 for the first time ever!

Moving forward our ambitions are to establish the club at step 4 whilst improving our facilities to allow us to continue our progress up to the next level. Our philosophy has always been to develop young players and help them progress to the highest level they possibly can. Some of the players that have played

for Horndean and progressed include Ben Anderson –Bognor Regis, Benny Reid – Havant and Waterlooville, Sam Smart – Eastleigh, Tommy Leigh – Accrington Stanley, but to name a few.

The mood at the Club is very positive after the success of last season. Our under 18’s won their league and enjoyed a great FA Youth Cup run losing narrowly to Oxford United. We also had success a several other age groups. We now have teams from 6-18 and lots of work is going on around the ground in preparation for our maiden season in the Isthmian South East League.

As I said last season was the most successful in the Clubs History and so our ambitions for the future are to grow the clubs fanbase, improve the ground and establish the team at the new step 4 level.

Horndean FC are based in a small village and have strong links with the local schools and businesses. What makes Horndean Football Club so great is our invaluable History, formed in 1887 it has become an integral part of the community over many decades. We see ourselves as just custodians of the Club continuing the great work carried out before us. Integrity, Honesty and Commitment are all elements that make the Club what it is today.

I have thoroughly enjoyed my time with the Deans so far, following the team home and away and I’ve made some great memories and built a good relationship with the players, staff, fellow volunteers and supporters. To see Horndean win the league and cup double last season was very special, and among my best memories in football.

Please visit the following Pages:

• Just Giving Pages: https://www.justgiving. com/crowdfunding/ horndeanfootballclub

• Main club website: https:// horndeanfc.co.uk/default.aspx

• Twitter: https://twitter.com/ Horndean_FC

• Facebook: https://www facebook.com/profile. php?id=10007671730983

• Insta: https://www.instagram. com/horndeanfcofficial/

MICK

`Outstanding! Making club history since 1887!`

HISTORY OF THE CLUB

HORNDEAN FC’s first recorded match was on 19th October 1887 against Red Star of Havant. The club continued to play friendly matches up to World War I before joining local leagues and eventually progressing to the Hampshire League. The club are current Isthmiam League members, following promotion from the Wessex League in 2022/23.

They initially played at Blendworth Hill on ground behind the old workhouse opposite what was the Colonial Bar before moving to their current ground.

The club only played friendly matches until World War I, after which they joined the Waterlooville & District League, They won the league title in 1926/27, 1929/30, 1930/31 and 1931/32.

They went on to join the Portsmouth League, winning Division Two in 1953/54. They were later promoted to the Premier Division, which they won in 1968/69, 1969/70 and 1970/71. In 1972 they moved up to Division Four of the Hampshire League.

In season 1979-80 they won the double of League and Portsmouth Senior Cup;

the latter being played at Portsmouth’s Fratton Park. By the mid-1980s the club had reached Division One and became founder members of the Wessex League in 1986.

Following the 1987 infamous hurricane which destroyed the old building, the club-house was rebuilt by Terry Cannon. The changing rooms and Team room building was also built by Terry in 1988.

In 2010/11 they were promoted to the Premier Division after finishing as runners-up in Division One. In October 2015 long serving manager David Carter left and on Wednesday 21st October 2015 Portsmouth Academy Coach Craig Pearce and Simon Chamberlain were appointed as successors. Craig Pearce and Simon Chamberlain took the team to fifth place, Horndean’s highest ever position in the Wessex League Premier Division.

At the start of the 2016/17 season Horndean saw the arrival of Michael Birmingham, Dutchy Holland, Jason Manna, Tony Clark and

Matthew Driver. the season finished with the club in sixth place in the Wessex League Premier division. 2017/18 saw the first team finish in fourth place, in 2018/19 the team finished second, the club’s highest in the League.

We want to encourage the Youth element so that there is a natural progression from Youth through to Adult football.

Horndean play their home games at Five Heads Park, Five Heads Road, Horndean PO8 9NZ. The ground was fully enclosed in 1981. In 1986 a 50-seater stand was added and a new building housing changing rooms and hospitality facilities was constructed inside the ground, to meet Wessex League standards. Previously the changing rooms had been in the social club, on the other side of the car park. The ground seating was increased significantly during the 2014/15 season.

Youth football is very important to the club. It’s great to see so many progress through the years. Some of the players have been with us for a lot of years and started their football journeys at Horndean. It’s great for the community as a lot of our teams come to the first team matches and the clubhouse is very social for all to meet. We have 13 youth teams from U6-18.

We believe every child should have the opportunity to play football if they wish to do so and will help them all on their journeys. We are always here for support and guidance and have some great coaches so have seen lots of development.

Sponsors to any club from the Premier League to Non-League are very important. Without sponsors being involved in different ways through advertising, hospitality and sponsorship clubs of all levels need the help of major and local businesses as well as families and friends to enhance the income of running the club each season.

Through continued sponsorship, funds can be used for extra playing budget, ground improvement and other aspects of running a successful club; they and are life line to Horndean and are very important to us, thankyou.

I started working behind the bar around 8 years ago. A year later I got involved with the football helping out, this progressed from there and I started helping out with secretary duties as Ian was taking a step back I really enjoyed it and took over as full time secretary at the end of that season. A couple of years later I helped out In the kitchen In the stadium. Sadly, the first team secretary David Sagar passed away and I was asked to take on the position. I had known Dave for over 20 years and felt privileged to take on the role. I’m looking forward to the challenges the new season will bring.

helped me build the club back up to what it is today. We are strongly a community club and are now developing teams at youth level from under 6 to under 18s. We currently have 14 youth teams and 1 girls’ team; and still growing!

PAUL SEXTON – CLUB DEVELOPMENT OFFICER

Some of the club’s long term and loyal members that we are very grateful to: John Bryson, Bob Berry, Jim Quarton, Paul Sexton Senior, Dave Sagar (RIP), Mick Austin (RIP), Mick Oliver (RIP), Mrs Berry (RIP).

At the age of 11 I started to play for Horndean at u18’s before moving away to another club and playing for various other teams. Then in 2007 i was asked to run the club which had lost its way. Since that date the club has become self-sufficient and can support itself whilst allowing development on and off the field of play. Over the past six years we have performed better than most teams in our area and last year gained promotion to step 4. We all help with the club on a voluntary basis to push for success. Sadly, we lost one person (Mick Oliver) last year who provided 50 years’ service, we also lost our Chairman David Sagar who

My first visit to Horndean was in 1980 when my father, Paul Sexton Snr, played for the club; I was less than a year old at the time. My first memory of Five Heads Park was at the start of season 1987/1988 when I was 8 year old. My father used to coach the U18s team by then (and they won the league that season too). I used to be the team mascot every game. I also used to work behind the bar 10 years later for as well as play for the club pool and darts teams. I moved away in 2004 and haven’t had much to do with the club until this season. I now live 5 minutes down the road and have joined the club as Club Development Officer following a chat with the Chairman, Mick Catlin, who I have known for many years. There’s a lot more to do this season moving up a league so I’m looking forward to helping take the club forward. There’s a great set of loyal core fans and volunteers. Some have been around for many years.

JOHN BUSHNELL. TEAM MANAGER, SUPPORTER & SPONSOR: STANLEY CHASE

I was running a children’s football team locally and heard some really good things about

Horndean FC and before I knew it, I was involved with the club. My son Bobby has progressed to another local club when the pathway was currently available at the club and my daughter Phoebe, and her friends, will be progressing into the Horndean FC U12s this coming season where she plays midfield and i am their Team Manager.

Phoebe`s team, Horndean FC`s U11`s last season, had an outstanding campaign resulting in a cup win; something they, myself and the club were very proud of.

I have always found Horndean to be a very welcoming club. They are undoubtedly people focused and an integral part of the local community. We were delighted to help the club out with various sponsorship last season and whilst attending charity match with my fellow Directors we got chatting with Ian Shepherd who inspired us to become stadium sponsors for the next 3 years. As a company Stanley Chase have very similar core values to the football club whether it’s our candidates or clients, looking after people is of the utmost importance to us.

Stanley Chaser love to support local communities,

charities and initiatives. I still pull on my boots, aged 47, for the annual vets match I take part in each year where we feel honoured to support a local mental health charity who themselves do great, valuable and needed work with struggling individuals whom they support.

Horndean FC are a very important hub throughout the region and for anyone that has had the pleasure of frequenting the club I’m sure I’m not alone in saying they are the most welcoming of places to visit. Whether it’s the 1st X1 interacting with the youth players and toddlers, the committee who obviously work very hard to keep their club thriving, to the members, players and fans you will always be looked after.

In this historic season just gone, myself, my fellow Directors and all our staff at Stanley Chase Reputable Resourcing would like to congratulate the club on

IAN SHEPPARD PRESIDENT AND TREASURER

LISA BAILEY CLUB SECRETARY

all their successes, both on and off the field, and wish everyone all the very best of continued growth and enjoyment for many more seasons to come!

Ashby Ivanhoe FC Champions 2022/2023

President.

Last season we played in division 1 of the Midland Football League and were right on the borderline between the Midland League to the West, and United Counties league to the East, which meant we were just about as far East as any club in the Midland Football league could be.

We finished 2nd in Midlands Football League and then got promoted, by the playoffs; so, if you could choose how to be promoted that would be the way to do it, on your home turf, scoring in the last minute with 1000 supporters in the ground! It’s fair to say that there are a few of us who still have not quite calmed down from that day.

the club very easily and this shines through when you hear them talk about the club. We are blessed with a very loyal group of players who have a lot of togetherness amongst them. The squad has been very well put together by our manager Andy Gray. Andy is enjoying his 2nd stint with us and has engendered a really good team ethos with the guys playing for the badge on their shirt which is fantastic.

DAVID

MORRIS CHAIRMAN AND PRESIDENT

I was born in Cardiff but have lived in Ashby De La Zouch since I was 2 years old, but as club members know I think of myself as very much 100% Welsh. I started as a club player in 1980 and continued playing up until my 3rd knee injury forced me to hang my

boots up. I knew however that I still wanted to be involved so i joined the committee which led me to becoming chairman for 12 years before moving up stairs to the club president’s role. When friend`s Jon Emmerson and Neil Johnson reconstituted as the CIC I came back on board as Chairman which means I am now both Chairman and

The FA threw the balls up in the air, regarding league structures, so instead of going to Shrewsbury we are going to Skegness! There are 18 teams in our new League with probably 8 with good distance to travel to and there are probably 9 good local teams that we are familiar with.

At present we have a thriving youth section which is our conveyor belt for the future. Youth players that develop have a natural loyalty to Ashby Ivanhoe and buy into

Recently we welcomed Doncaster rovers U18s to us on a on Saturday and one of their supporters, compiled a video report of his visit. He highlighted his experience with a review where he states how enjoyable his time was at our club and although he is used to visiting more illustrious clubs than Ashby Ivanhoe said that he and the travelling support really enjoyed their day out including their visit to our town. The video blog showed many Doncaster fans enjoying themselves in the local pubs demonstrating to us how our club and traveling teams are positively affecting local businesses which helps boost local economy. It is important to see that we are helping our local business community by bringing people into what is a lovely market

“Ambition alongside sustainability is key for us!”

We would like to Acknowledge the following for kindly supplying images

• George Dunn Photography

• Shaun Adey Photography

• Mathew Mason Photography

• Ryan Morris

town which perhaps some people won’t have previously heard of. Through our club they now have a good reason for a return visit and support their own teams as well as perhaps revisiting as a tourist. We too are very grateful for local business support and are always open to some more.

As a club we feel a responsibility to protect our members as anyone can see that the non-league graveyard is scattered with the good intentions of clubs who took on a sugar daddy but sadly didn’t end well for their club and fans. Some clubs locally have appeared then disappeared and we certainly are not going to be that type of club. We have been around for 75 years and although Jon and I won’t see it we hope the club will be around for the next 75.

Over the next 5 or 10 years we can achieve promotions again but alongside that our club’s infrastructure has to grow as well. We have some challenges around requirements which we need to meet for step 5 and although we are confident, we can satisfy them, there would be additional factors to face at step 4. This is not to say that we don’t have ambition, the way the manager was talking recently we are confident that the 2023/2024 season will be a good one and that we will do ourselves proud in the new league. We certainly won’t be just turning up to make the numbers, we will be competing!

Ambition alongside sustainability is the key for us. Yes, we would like additional investment but are also mindful that assistance can go as fast as it arrives but of course anybody that would like to help us we would love

to hear from you. We feel obligated to ensure the club will still be here in 20 or 30 years for everybody to enjoy. We have so many people that are involved here on a daily basis. Being opened 7 days a week with a lot going on whether its kids training, senior games, various events etc. takes a lot of hard work. We are ambitious to continue our growth and relationship with our local community. It’s all good at the moment and everyone feels very positive about the direction the clubs going.

It’s amazing how so many people over the last few years have got involved in the club. They have started off by just dipping their toe in the water and all of a sudden, they are here every day finding or looking for something to do. Whether its strimming, sorting out the fencing, painting our dugouts as someone is currently doing, they have an appetite to be part of the club. People just seem to get emersed in Ashy Ivanhoe it really is incredible to see how you get such a buy in from people who just want to see our club progress.

Recently we had a visit from our local mayor, she wished us all the best for the new season of course and had a look at all the trophies the club had won last year; which was a lot across our seniors and juniors which we had on display for her. I said that there is nothing I feel prouder about than seeing a mum and dad with their child in Tesco’s with our colours on or walking down the high street seeing a little kid wearing an Ashby Ivanhoe kit, I just think that is absolutely fantastic and hopefully we can see more and more of that as our great club moves forward into pastures new!

OUR HISTORY

Ashby Ivanhoe Football Club was founded in 1948 and play their home matches at the NFU Sports Ground, Lower Packington Road, Ashby de la Zouch in Leicestershire, which they moved to in 2012, and purchased in 2021. Before that, the club had played at Hood Park from when they were formed in 1948, until the end of the 2011/12 season.

The club currently consists of 2 adult teams and over 30+ sides in the Junior section. The first team play in the United Counties League premier North, with the Knights in the Leicestershire Senior League Premier Division.

The club’s junior sides range from Under 7’s through to Under 18’s with the majority playing in the Midland Junior Premier League, Burton Junior Football League, and the Tamworth Junior Football Leagues. The junior section came after the club merged with the David Hunt Soccer School at the beginning of the 2009/2010 season.

In February 2004, Ashby Ivanhoe became an FA Charter Standard football club for the first time and the club is very ambitious and has plans to progress further up the league pyramid system. The club is run by an experienced management team and enjoys the support of some prestigious national commercial partners.

Ashby Ivanhoe had one of their most successful seasons in 2010/11 as they completed a league and cup double by winning the Leicestershire Senior League by nine points and also lifted the Coalville Charity Cup for the very first time after producing a superb second half comeback to beat Bardon Hill 3-2 in the

final. They have also reached successive Leicestershire Senior Cup finals in 2011/2012 and 2012/2013 but had to settle for runnersup on both occasions losing 3-1, firstly to Ibstock United and then Aylestone Park.

The 2013/2014 season saw the first team achieve a longterm ambition as they won promotion into the Step 6 of the Pyramid system playing in the East Midlands Counties League for the 2014/2015 season after finishing third place in the Leicestershire Senior League. It was a close title race with the top three all finishing level on points with Ashby third on goal difference. The Reserves were also promoted to the Leicestershire Senior League Division One.

2014/2015 saw Ashby compete at Step 6 for the first time and they had a very good season and secured a top six finish in the East Midlands Counties League which featured victories against all of the sides above them. The Reserve side were involved in a tight title race and it went down to a last day decider against Lutterworth Athletic Reserves but despite the result going against them on the day they were still promoted for the second season in succession and will play at Step 7 in the Leicestershire Senior League Premier Division for 2015/2016.

2015/2016 saw Ashby have another fine season and they mounted a strong title challenge and they led the East Midlands Counties League for the majority of the season before finally finishing in third place. That saw them assured of a first ever appearance in the FA Cup for the 2016/2017 season where the aim again will be to push for promotion to Step 5.

The 2016-17 season was the most memorable in the history of Ashby Ivanhoe Football Club. For the very first time in the clubs history they were accepted to play in the most famous club competition in the world, The FA Cup. It turned into a thrilling journey with higher ranked opponents of Quorn and Loughborough Dynamo knocked out before Ashby fell to Ilkeston in the 1st Qualifying Round. Prior to the Ilkeston defeat Ashby received a visit from the FA Cup which was paraded through the town centre visiting local sponsors before players and spectators had the opportunity to view the cup at the NFU Sports Ground.

The league season was inconsistent with a strong finish to the season seeing

MARK HATTON, SUPPORTER AND SPONSOR: GOLF DAYS LTD

My relationship with the club is relatively recent although I have known many of its players and members for a lot of years. Neil Johnson, one of the club directors, is a friend who I have enjoyed some golf days with.

I was out walking my dog on the day that the club were playing their play-off final and heard this massive cheer ring out, which I later found out was the winning goal which gained them entry into level 5 for the first time in their history!

I run a Golf Travel and events business, and being a huge football fan, I was

looking for a local club to sponsor and Ashby Ivanhoe really ticked all the boxes for me. They obviously work very hard throughout our local community and provide an outstanding service to all whether young or old.

I live very local to the club and intend bringing my boys down to watch them as often as I can this season. Reaching level 5 is an amazing achievement for Ashby Ivanhoe Football Club and I wish everyone associated with the club all the very best of continued success in Level 5 not just for the 2023/2024 season but for many more years to come!

the team finish in tenth place. The season did end with a first appearance in the final of the Jenkins & Jenkins League Cup but Dunkirk overturned a one goal deficit late on to see Ashby end as runners-up.

The 2017-18 season saw the 1st team finish Seventeenth in the East midland Counties and the Reserves finished in the bottom Two and relegation to Division One.

2018-19 saw the 1st team finish in the bottom half of the East Midlands Counties Football League and The Reserves now called the Knights finish runners up in the Senior League Division One and promoted back to step 7 in the Senior League Premier Division.

In the 2019-20 season Ashby first team faced a fresh challenge when they were moved to the Midland Premier League Division one by the FA in a shake up of the NLS, the season as we all know was expunged due to the pandemic. The Reserves league also had all results expunged.

In the 2021/22 season, the club secured their highest ever league finish, finishing 4th Place and securing a place in the play-offs, where we

faced local rivals Stapenhill in the semi-finals and lost 4-2.

2021 saw the club reconstituted as a Community Interest Club (CIC) and made another significant step forward as we secured the purchase of our ground on Lower Packington Road, paving the way to develop our facilities further and provide a community hub for the town.

The 2022/23 season was one for the record books and it was quite fitting that during the year the club celebrated its 75th Anniversary, the Senior and Junior sections, both thrived bringing home a whole raft of silverware and promotions. The First Team fought eventual league winners Dudley Town all the way to the end and finished 2nd place - the highest league position that the club has ever finished. This led to a home play-off Semi-Final, which saw us narrowly beat OJM Black Country 1-0 to reach the PlayOff Final. The Play-Off Final was a momentous day in the history of the club as it would see us beat Droitwich Spa 2-1 with a last-minute Joel Carta goal in front of a packed NFU crowd of 1023 to seal promotion and bring Step 5 to the town for the first time ever.

The First Team campaign was soon topped off and turned into a Play-Off Final and cup double as we comfortably beat Lutterworth Athletic 3-1 at Holmes Park to lift the Leicestershire Senior Cup, a trophy we have came runners up in twice before.

The Knights bounced straight back up to the Senior League Premier division having been relegated the previous season. The league was very much a 3-horse race down to the wire between ourselves, Aylestone Park and North Kilworth, with us only dropping 12 points all season to top the league by 2 points. Along the way the Knights also made it to the Presidents Trophy Final, beating Holwell Sports Reserves 3-0 to make it a memorable season all round.

JON EMMERSON, CLUB DIRECTOR

“We want to see people go home with a smile on their Faces!”

I was born in Ashy De La Zouch and got involved with the club in 2017/2018. I have had a lifelong love of sport, holding a Liverpool FC season ticket, and with a background in project and cost management. I joined the club’s management team as their project manager and my focus was really to develop their facilities and help obtain available grants with my involvement developing from there.

In 2020 the club In 2020 the club reconstituted and became a CIC and I became a director so I went from someone just being involved to getting in knee deep!

We currently have 39 teams in our junior section 33 boys’ teams and 6 girls. They range from U7s to U16s and over the last few years there has been a gap between our junior and senior sections but now there is a player pathway from juniors to senior football. Five or more of last year’s 1st X1 players came through our youth.

In terms of our `in-club community spirit`, the junior and senior sections are very well integrated. At the start of last season, we brought in a guy called Mark Scrivener to head up youth football. Mark was previously a successful chairman of another junior football team but they only went up to age 16 which didn’t allow a passage into senior football; unless of course you went to play for Ashby Ivanhoe or another club. So, Mark` philosophy is to develop kids right from the age of U7`s instilling a really good attitude in the players about the overall club. Its all about fun when you are 7 and starts to get more into the nitty gritty side of the sport when you reach 15. What he has done is to work very hard with the club and our Head of Elite and first team managerAndy Gray which has resulted in a great connection between both sections.

At many bigger games we will have a junior team involved as mascots and you can see that our seniors have become idols for the junior

players which is nice to see. So much so that after we won the playoff there was a little bit of an excited pitch invasion with some of the juniors asking for players shirts which they have obviously picked up from watching the premiership on tv. It show that if you are kids’ and part of a club, you do connect with senior players and naturally feel very proud of your team.

In term of our wider community, we have a very loyal support base and an away following who, over the past two years, have grown quite remarkably. I think number wise they will be even larger this year with the excitement of playing in the higher league and against many new teams. We have some fans who haven’t missed an away game all of last season, despite the travel.

Additionally, we have great support from sponsors with some who are approaching us to become involved. its no longer a case where we are knocking on doors, which to be fair we are still prepared to do, but more so that we are being approached asking if there is any available opportunities to sponsor the club. This has been a breath of fresh air! We know from community feedback that people are very proud of their local football club appreciating and seeing the work we are doing for our local community.

With the infrastructure we have at Ashby Ivanhoe our directors and management team believe we certainly have another promotion ahead of us and moving up to step 4. We feel we can go higher but are realistic also. It is possible that we could sustain ourselves at step 4, and beyond, but obviously that would offer a lot of challenges. It’s not just about car parking space, any clubs progress brings other questions around finances which can quickly get a little bit out of hand if you are not careful.

Every decision we make is based on sustainability we are not looking for a big investor who throws money at us to help us gain promotion we want to work together as a club and see where we want to go together. Our funds are mainly through our bar, gates, sponsorship etc. The higher divisions you go the

more challenges appear and I would naturally be concerned if we got to step 4 and pushed for promotion again; the question would be could we cope. The idea of outside investment holds some dangers in any situation as an outside investor who suddenly is no longer interested or falls out with the club can leave you exposed and where do you go from there.

Of course, Sometimes we can be hard on ourselves for certain things but what we primarily want to do as directors, and for Ashby Ivanhoe, is to put a spectacle on for people and see them go home with a smile on their faces. I would say that 99 times out of 100 we do that. The number of away fans who have visited us, perhaps for the 1st time, have often commented on what a fantast time they have had so perhaps we shouldn’t beat ourselves up too much because there are 3 people cuing for a pint. I think that as you get bigger and bigger its difficult to control that, so we don’t want to get into a position where we are too large and can’t provide a healthy environment.

For me what we have at Ashby Ivanhoe, which is special, and aside from our success on and off the pitch, is the camaraderie amongst our senior, junior, members and fans. The 1000 people that were down here on a beautiful day for the play off final against Drotwich plus travelling fans who decided to stay behind and enjoy some good-hearted banter with our fans was a wonderful experience. It really emphasised and showed me what local football has that the professional games doesn’t.

Like I said at the beginning I have a Liverpool FC season ticket and even if we beat Man Utd there’s no opportunity where fans are able to have a drink after the game with the players, management or even visiting fans.

Here at Ashby Ivanhoe Football Club everybody is welcome and for the most part have a smile on their face, and we all seem to be enjoying ourselves. That applies across the board for all the other events we hold too. The main thing that makes me proud is seeing that as a club we have created an experience where people want to come down here. If it was not welcoming and enjoyable, they wouldn’t be here. I’ve had the honour of making an awful lot of great friends at the club. People I have got to know and really get on well with. I wouldn’t have known them if it wasn’t for this great club!

EAT DRINK TAKEOUT

We are a family run business that has been operating in Ashby since 1991. Most of our dishes are cooked to order and where possible we use local ingredients and local suppliers. We have a wide range of dishes on our menu, i.e. pasta, pizza, game, fish, steaks, Cypriot Meze and we always have an exciting chalkboard.

Our inviting courtyard is equipped with cozy blankets and toasty heaters, creating the perfect ambiance for your outdoor dining. Enjoy delicious meals while staying snug and warm. Whether it’s a romantic dinner or a casual get-together with friends Zamanis is the place to savour every moment, no matter what the weather.

You can also discover the exquisite flavours of Zamanis in the comfort of your own home! Order takeout today and treat yourself to a culinary journey that will leave you craving for more. Don’t miss out - explore Zamanis from your own dining table!

ZAMANI, SUPPORTER & SPONSOR: ZAMANI`S RESTAURANT.

I have been a supporter of Ashby Ivanhoe Football Club for the past 30 years and have watched them continue to grow and develop. They are a very well-run hub in our local community and now that they have been promoted to the highest league in their history, I can only envisage more success for the club in coming seasons.

Having two children myself, Harrisson 13 and Cyrus 11, who are both very much into their sports activities I am only too well aware of the great service the club provides to young people throughout our local community.

Matchdays at Ashby Ivanhoe bring additional fans into our Market Town which naturally has a very positive knock-on effect for local businesses who benefit from the additional custom. This

MARK SLADEN, PLAYER, SUPPORTER & SPONSOR: SLADEN COMMERCIALS.

I moved to Ashby de La Zouch in 1975 and joined Ashby Ivanhoe FC after leaving school at just 16 years old. Although I played for other clubs, over my career, Ashby Ivanhoe have always been my main club. These days, and although I have played in a memorial game for the club, you are more likely to see me on the fiveaside pitch with my friends many of which are former Asby Ivanhoe players like myself!

can only get better as the club is continuing to grow and increase space for more teams.

Myself, my wife Kate, Harrison, Cyrus and our staff at Zamani`s Restaurant would like to congratulate everyone at the club on being recognised in Football Focus Magazine and wish them all the very best of continued success in the new league this 2023/2024 season!

Sadly, my mum passed away last year, who herself would attend the football club on occasion, so I have been keeping an eye on my dad who lives close to Ashby Ivanhoe. This has meant that my ability to attend matches was greatly reduced, however, being a longstanding club member and supporter I’m fully aware of the great achievements and the historic rise to Level 5 the club has enjoyed for the first time in the club’s history. My business Sladen Commercials have sponsored the club for many years, and it’s been a pleasure to help out whenever I can.

I`ve always been fond of sport and been particularly keen to see Ashby Ivanhoe FC continue their growth. The level they have now reached and the multiple of teams across all areas of the club, including youngsters, junior and women’s football, can only be described as a good thing for the town and surrounding community. I wish everyone at the club all the very best of continued success for the 2023/2024 campaign and for many more successful season to come!

Used trucks bought & sold

Mob 07733 267 929

Email mark@sladencommercials.co.uk Web www.sladencommercials.co.uk

PEJMAN

“Matchdays at Ashby Ivanhoe bring additional fans into our Market Town”

Dunmow Town FC

SIMON NOAKES CHAIR

My business has always been involved with sport – we have sponsored rugby clubs, football clubs and golfers- I got the non-league bug 4 years ago and off the back of that started 3 years ago - I have lived in the area and my business is based there –Dunmow have 30,000 people within a 5 mile radius from us and we wanted/want to create a senior side the town can be proud off. Dunmow has some fantastic youth sides but for many years hasn’t had a senior side that has the ambition and backing to move up the leagues.

We have always had ambition and wanted to have standards on and off the pitch that are above the level we play at– Our first 2 years we ground shared at Braintree Town, a super stadia and facility, last year we moved to Heybridge Swifts a superb stadia again with an excellent 4g surface, we have a 2 season agreement there so will remain there this season.

So we always wanted to have a great home however the challenges were attracting players to our starting level and our facilities massively helped.

It was really about showing them the project and the journey we want to take. Our next challenge is to then look to get nearer Dunmow, Heybridge is magnificent and they are amazing people but its 28 miles from Dunmow so we want to get closer to the town. We have to be at a certain ground grading level for the league we are in such as seats and floodlights.

We very much want to be part of the community and embrace the high street and local businesses. Our DNA will always be about our community and we want to also work with youth clubs in the surrounding areas and schools. We currently have a number of local business involved as sponsors and we want to be a big part of the community.

Coaching wise playing the game the right way and play football that fans can enjoy watching and the players like playing is important to us.

“Dunmow Town Football Club are 3 years old and as a club, and to date, they have achieved 2 promotions and 2 cup wins.”

We have made a super acquisition in appointing Paul Hayes as manager, an ex pro who has played for the likes of Scunthorpe, Charlton and Wycombe, Paul has played and scored at Wembley, White Hart lane and the Etihad to name but a few. This is massive for us as 3 years ago we didn’t exist and now we have managed to attract such talent.

In the short term we are fully focusing on our first team and medium term will add a reserve side & a ladies team. As a club we would love to work closer with the excellent youth teams in Dunmow those being Dunmow Rovers and Dunmow United it would be wonderful for us to offer pathway for those players.

Winning the Double is a dream come true for us, in the season ahead we want to compete in the Thurlow Nunn

South League. there are some very established clubs in this league but we have had a very good preseason and we are all excited about the challenge ahead. We are very much part of the community and we want to expand on this. Local businesses, whether big and small, help massively and it’s important we consistently promote our local businesses. Sponsors are huge for our club, there support both physically and finically allows us to invest funds into the club for running costs, equipment and clothing.

Dunmow Town Football Club are 3 years old and as a club and to date we have achieved 2 promotions and 2 cup wins. We enter our fourth season this year in the Thurlow Nunn South league.

A mood and atmosphere of excitement permeates our

club. are ambitious and we want to keep the momentum. Our DNA is no different to any other team we all want to win matches but as a club we are working hard on and off the pitch and we are delighted

with our progress to date. We have had players move up 1 and 2 leagues and it great to see and our current squad comprises a great mix of experience and youth; the perfect blend!

Melbourne Dynamo FC

“I

I moved to Melbourne for work in 2018, where my step-son joined the U12 team. A year later I took over as manager of his team and also headed-up the new Fundraising Team for the club. After a year of running the Fundraising Team, the previous Chairman made the decision to step down, and (after a few conversations trying to persuade my wife) I decided to put my name forward to take over as Chairman in September 2021. Since then we’ve seen a massive growth in the club, both in terms of club members, numbers of teams and also the development of the club’s facilities.

The main challenge is trying to manage a club with 33 teams with the limited capacity we have within our facilities. We are lucky to have a 7-a-side Artificial Grass Pitch to train on, however the number of slots we have available to us on this pitch for training is limited, meaning we have a lot of teams training in small areas. The club has over 700 members registered, including players, parents and supporters, so it is always going to be difficult to try and keep everyone happy. However, each year, more and more people seem to be buying into the vision we have for the club, and that is making life easier for myself and our great team of Committee members.

On the pitch, our Men’s First Team have just been promoted into Step 7 football – the highest level the club has been at in its 73 year history. The aim is to get the club into Step 6 within the next 5 years, through developing our facilities and investing in our coaches throughout all age groups in the club. Our philosophy is to create a team full of players that have graduated from our Junior section into Adult football. We now have a clear pathway for our Juniors to progress into the Adult team,

with at least one team at every age group from Soccer Schools (4-5 year olds) through to Adults. Our Women’s section is also growing rapidly, with a pathway starting to form from Juniors through to Women’s Adult team. Within 5 years, we want to have a team at every age group (currently 9 teams). We are also starting a PanDisability team this season, with the aim to have them playing in a competitive league come the 2024/25 season.

Off the pitch, we are improving our facilities every year. In the off-season, we invest a substantial amount into both our grass pitches so that all age groups will be impacted by inclement weather as little as possible during the season. Last season we only had two weekends-worth of fixtures cancelled all season – and that was due to snow! We’ve also created a Sponsorship Pack this season, which has been circulated to local businesses.

From this, we’ve managed to get sponsorship for our new Electronic Scoreboard and Fixture Board, which has meant there’s been no expense to the club for these items. At the end of last season, we purchased six 15m floodlight masts off Facebook Marketplace, which we will be looking to install in the coming 12-months, pending availability of grant money. This will allow our Adult team to progress into Step 6 football when the time comes. We’re also working with local engineering companies to come up with a solution to install a seated terrace, to keep our spectators comfortable, whilst also attracting more spectators to come and watch our teams play.

Junior football is the main focus around our clubs philosophy. We aim to develop our players from a Junior level, right through until the Adults. We do this through investing in our facilities and our coaches. Last season, we

introduced monthly Coaching

Continued Professional Development (CPD) events at the club, free of charge to all our coaches.

These sessions allow our coaches to demonstrate their skills, whilst also receiving feedback from UEFA A-licensed coaches who have vast experience within the professional game. We have seen proof of our philosophy working, as several of our title-winning Adults team last season were graduates from our Junior section. Within the next 5 years, we want to see at least 50% of our Adult players having come through the Junior ranks at the club.

Located on the border of three counties, Melbourne Dynamo FC traces its roots back to 1950. Shortly after World War II, an Eastern European club side toured the UK, playing a series of friendly matches against professional and amateur outfits across the country. That club was FC Dynamo Moscow. The then known, Melbourne FC, were just one of the clubs that pitted their wits against FC Dynamo Moscow. A year or so later, so folklore would have it, Melbourne FC became Melbourne Dynamo FC, and the all blue strip was adopted.

The mood is starting to improve at the club, now that our members can start to see developments both on and

“Promoted as Champions into Step 7 football – the highest level the club has been at in its 73 year history!”

CONOR RAYNOR CHAIRMAN

love being a part of this club”

off the pitch. As previously mentioned, it’s an impossible job to keep 700+ members all happy, so you try to focus on the positive responses, which far outweigh the negative ones. Of course, you listen to people’s opinions, but you’ve ultimately got to stick to your guns and continue to work to the plan you’ve put in place to try and make the club successful. If you try to keep everyone happy, you lose sight of your end goal, and end up making no-one happy!

Ben Radcliffe played for us at a Junior Level when he was younger. After a shortlived Dynamos career, he was snapped-up by Derby County Academy at the age of 8. He then went on to play his football with Burton Albion, but has since returned back to Derby County recently (but still helps out by refereeing Dynamos Junior matches when required!). Steve Adcock also played for the club in the 1980s, and represented Gresley Rovers at Wembley in the 1991 FA Vase Final.

On the pitch has been great for the majority of our teams, none less than our Men’s team won the Central Midlands League Division 1. In our Junior sections, several of our teams picked up silverwear in both the boys and girls sections. Although silverwear is great, as long as we see progression and development of players, then we know we’re moving in the right direction.

Our aims for the 2023/24 season are to secure ourselves as competitive team in the new Central Midlands Alliance Premier Division in our Adult team. We also want to reinvent our Men’s Reserves team, with new young talent coming through the ranks. In the Junior section, we want to see teams progressing, whether that be within their divisions, or even achieving promotion to the next division.

We have a great women’s section, which is made up of 9 teams from Soccer Schools (4-5 year olds) through to U18s. We currently don’t have a Senior Women’s team, but the aim is for our current U18s team to eventually make that step up into open-age football, to give our younger girls something to look up to. Eventually, we want to have a team at every age group within our Women’s section, to create that constant flow of players into the Adult teams – which is in our 5 year plan. We are also starting to offer Pan-Disability football at the club this season, to give all abilities access to football. We are currently recruiting coaches and volunteers, so

please get in touch if you want to get involved!

Yes, we are very much a community club. We’re made up of volunteers from the local community, forming both our team of Committee members or pool of Coaches. All our teams (Juniors & Adults) have shirt sponsors advertising local businesses. We also offer Sponsorship Packages, which have been circulated to all local businesses within the area, to give them a option of affordable advertisement.

We try to do as much as we can to help promote local businesses, as their money helps keep the club’s development plans on track. We try to engage with local people as much as we can, to help them with their professional and personal development. We created a Youth Development Programme a few years ago to try and get young adults (16-18 year olds) involved in running the club, and even offer them a spot on the Committee. This helps improve any CV or University applications they might have. We also offer opportunities for Duke of Edinburgh students to get involved with helping our coaches during training sessions, to help with their award. We’re also on most social media channels (Facebook, Instagram, TikTok) which helps us engage with our younger audience.

Our sponsors are a massive part of our club. Any money we generate from our sponsors goes towards our development plans, such as installation of floodlights, new seated terrace etc. Without them, we would stagnate off the pitch, leading to a huge negative impact on player retention, and our philosophy would be hard to achieve. One thing we want to aim for is to have all our advertising boards around our pitch filled with adverts from local businesses – that would be great to see!

I love being a part of this club, as everyone wants to see us thrive as much as the next person. Year-on-year we are starting to see more and more members start to get on board with our vision, and even offering support where it is needed. It’s not always plain-sailing. We have faced some really tough times off the pitch in recent years, but it brought us all closer together as a club, and was great to see our members rally round to support those in need. All the hard work and effort from our volunteers off the pitch is starting to show through results on the pitch, which makes this job all worthwhile.

CSM London FC

DR.

CHAIRMAN CSM LONDON FC MANAGING DIRECTOR CSM FOUNDATION

I set the club up in 2016 with my brother and friends who were all involved together in football from our past. Some of us worked together in semi-professional football and some through grassroots football. It’s been quite some journey so far, that’s for sure! Promotion and cup victories, relegation, a treble this season… and all with COVID in the middle of it!

Like many clubs our main challenges are costs. We’re in a really fortunate position where we are able to work with some amazing local businesses that are keen to support the work we do. We’re so grateful for Sam’s Property Consulting, Anglian Self Storage, Pestech 24/7, Rose Court

Chambers and London Building Maintenance for their support. Because of this we’re able to have our Senior Saturday team, which has enjoyed a fantastic 202223 season and now heads back into Step 7 football. But also we have 2 Sunday teams, one of which has been promoted and enjoyed cup success this season too.

The big plan is to own our own site. We are a Step 7 side on a Saturday and we do have ambitions to keep climbing the league ladder. Having our own site with a 3G pitch and stadium that is compliant with ground grading criteria for moving up the league system is a real long term ambition. Not only for our teams but to also have a base to keep connecting with our local community and other great groups delivering football throughout the area. Working

in partnership with each other is one of the real successes to come out of our journey so far. Sure we have “rivals” but a lot of amazing clubs face the same issues we do, so working together to ease those issues makes complete sense.

We don’t currently have a junior setup and are in the midst of setting up a Soccer School up for September 2023. For that, its all about enjoyment. Giving juniors a safe space to learn and enjoy football. If we form some junior sides from that then fantastic, but if not that’s fine so long as the environment is a healthy space for kids to be active in. Senior wise, we try to stay grounded but have been really excited by the momentum shift with last season’s success. Everything we do is built upon the idea of “Together Through Football”. On the pitch this is vital, but off it too. You can see this in a lot of our community work off the pitch with local youths in education programmes, coaching programmes and homeless support projects for our local area.

OUR HISTORY

Well the first year was fantastic with promotion and cup victory at Dagenham and Redbridge. To win in a great local stadium was really special. We were able to establish 3 sides in our first 3 years with 2 Sunday sides joining together the CSM ranks allowing us to provide football for those preferring the Sunday morning circuits. We did have a relegation with our Saturday side which hurt, but it was one of the greatest lesson we had and we wouldn’t change it because it led to an incredible treble winning season.

The big word around the club is momentum. Capitalising on success is so important. We’ve been able to establish more local business partners, setup up a fans group, bring in a few more players. Our charity projects away from the pitch have stepped up a notch too. Making the most of success, not just to keep winning, but also keep growing and keep giving back, it’s a really important part of what we want to do.

Newham is a hot bed of talent. We’ve had some fabulous individuals play for us that belong in the higher levels of non-league and

“The environment we have makes all people feel welcome!”

ANEES IKRAMULLAH

maybe even professional football. The environment we have makes all people feel welcome, but it is also important that no-one received that ultra special treatment. And I think those guys respect us for that. It’s a real important message for the team’s identity that everyone is in this together. Recently we had Walsall pro, Jonas Mukuna come join us for a pre-season session which was really inspiring for him to return to Newham and train with our guys.

An absolute whirlwind. William Brobby who manages the Saturday team has put in so much work into this club. He is the first and only manager of the Saturday side and has tasted success, relegation, and an unprecedented treble, It’s a just reward for how much effort he has put into putting the club where it is. Even when I moved away from London for 3 years due to work, he carried the club on his back so the success of last season was great for the club, but I was so happy for him. On a Sunday, we’ve had Joe Biscoe who is the Saturday team goalkeeper/assistant enjoy success too. He was a player on a Sunday who took over as caretaker manager and the players loved him. Since then he’s joined the club committee and had a great season last year across both Saturday and Sunday.

Ambitions for 2023-24; well all 3 sides have a tough season in store so we just want to be continuing in the right path. Constantly getting better. We must enjoy the good moments, absolutely but the ethos of the club is understanding that you don’t just get handed success, you

earn it. So together, we have to work so hard to achieve more. With some fantastic teams in our divisions success is very difficult so we have to keep striving for better and more from ourselves!

Unfortunately we do not have a women’s football programme at the moment. A couple of years ago we did lead a community football programme working with 10 women’s football clubs to help them source funding and deliver beginner sessions for new women and girls wanting to play football.

In terms of other football we enjoy delivering our community projects that run weekly. Some unique concepts like Player Leagues that runs on Monday and Tuesdays is a social get together for people not playing competitive football and to come enjoy casual-competitive play in a healthy friendly environment. It is a great way to keep people physically activity, mentally healthy and socially connected with others in their community.

Youth football is an important part of our future plans. We haven’t had the capacity to put on much activity for youths but with a soccer school in the pipeline for September 2023, we’re really excited to add a junior programme to CSM London FC.

We are very much a community club. Beyond the results on the pitch and league action it is so important that we work towards meeting the needs of our community. We have FEED which is our homeless outreach programme that collects donations and delivers to two local housing groups that take homeless people off the streets. We

also have Roads to Success which is our collaboration project with Rose Court Chambers to deliver sport and law career workshops to local school kids in Newham, Redbridge and Hackney. And finally, we have Coach-Ed. that offers free Introduction to Coaching Football courses to local people from vulnerable communities, with a mentoring scheme to support new coaches and volunteers

in grassroots football. Our sponsors are Vital to us, we simply cannot function without them. I mentioned the primary partners earlier but thanks to the amazing volunteer team we have on the club committee, two of our latest joiners, Sameer and Urfat, have spearheaded the CSM Business Club which is attracting smaller local business to a membership scheme. From these we’ve also gathered some momentum in recruiting fans who are regularly attending matches to cheer on the lads. It’s great to have met some local people with local business who share those same community values we do as a football club and charity.

It’s so hard to say what makes CSM London FC such a great club to be part of. For me, it’s the unity and togetherness shown from people of all different backgrounds coming together to achieve something as one team. Others at the club may say they’re here for different reasons and that’s okay. It’s a special club for many different people and for many different reasons. We’re very grateful to everyone involved on and off the pitch for sharing our vision and helping us get to where we are today and where we want to be in the future!

SPECIAL MENTION

In December 2022 the club was hit by a tragedy at the passing of our dear friend and brother Carlos Winston Fowler. He played for the Sunday side and was a diamond of guy. He was an example of everything this club valued and stood for. We’ve retired the #11 shirt with the Sunday side in memory of Winston. Together with LIFA FC and other clubs he had played for in the past the football community was able to raise over £2,000 for his family.

Coventry Sphinx FC

a `One Club Ethos` with our young players very often being included as mascots for our first X1 and we take responsibility for teaching values in the way we treat other teams, players and referees with courtesy.

DANNIE CAHILL, CHAIRMAN

Football Clubs and sports clubs, offer a great and needed services to young people within local communities. My three sons Daniel, Joe and Liam all came through the club’s youth system and benefited from the family experience and friendships our club has been able to provide. Offering young people a place where they can congregate, play football and meet lifelong friends shouldn’t be underestimated. I am very proud today that Franco, my grandson, is the third generation of Cahill`s to have pulled on the light blue jersey of Coventry Sphinx.

340 boys & girls now make up our youth system and our first X1 are competing at Level 4. Strong friendships between fellow club committee members Joey Fletcher, Neil

Buswell and myself have allowed clear communication and majority decision making to rule over the years, always keeping our club, players and members best interests in mind and heart!

Myself, Neil & Joey are naturally big supporters of the Sphinx, and of course of Coventry City who we have an excellent relationship with. Joey Fletcher, a former player himself, is a bit of a legend at our club; in fact, his business name Sphinx Industrial Supplies is taken from our club and our stadium is named after Joey`s business.

Something Coventry Sphinx Football Club can be very proud of is the great reputation we have built over many decades. We have always been renowned for our inclusivity and friendliness, aiming to look after players, members and fans with respect. We try to embody

Coventry Sphinx Football Club is proud to be an FA Charter club who understands the importance of engaging with our local community. Over the seasons we have worked on many local initiatives whether it’s been drug awareness for our players moving into higher education or just to open our doors for children to belong and be part of us. I am personally very proud of everything we have achieved both on and off the pitch and feel that we are a club who are really going places!

JOE FLETCHER, CLUB TRUSTEE. I was born in Buncrana, Donegal, Ireland, and relocated to Coventry at the age of 6. Football has always been my passion. In fact, my cousin, Christy Fletcher, also hailing from Buncrana, pursued a professional career, notably playing for several Scottish and English clubs, including Kilmarnock & Morton. Buncrana also produced Ray Houghton, the Republic of Ireland midfielder who graced the ranks of Liverpool FC.

My own football journey began with Coventry Sphinx in my early twenties, where I played until the age of 32. I progressed into the Centre Forward position for the first team, but unfortunately, my playing career came to an abrupt halt due to an ankle injury. Astonishingly, by the time I turned 36, the nagging injury had significantly

improved, allowing me to return to the field for another 3 years until I was 39.

During a challenging period marked by a recession, our club faced the brink of folding, saddled with debts totalling 120K. However, with the invaluable support of individuals like Dannie Cahill and Neil Buswell, coupled with an immense amount of hard work, we managed to turn the tide. Today, we find ourselves in a profitable position and proud owners of our club. Along the way, we’ve amassed numerous trophies and enjoyed memorable runs in the FA Vase.

In the previous season, our First Team displayed exceptional football skills, and as a club, we are committed to pushing our limits. Coventry Sphinx enjoys widespread recognition both within the county and beyond, thanks to our steadfast reputation for taking care of our players and members. It’s a rarity to witness players departing from Sphinx, and when they do, they often return at a later date.

After my playing days concluded, my desire to remain involved led me to take on various roles within the club over the years, including that of a principal sponsor through my business, Sphinx Industrial Supplies Ltd.

We are fortunate to have excellent facilities, but it’s the people who truly define our club and make it a fantastic place to be. Many of our players, members, former players, supporters, and sponsors have emerged from our youth system, a testament to our club’s legacy. It’s heartwarming to hear them speak passionately about the club they know and love, Coventry Sphinx FC.

“Its fair to say that I have worn many hats at Coventry Sphinx over the years including player, manager, youth team coach, CEO of senior football team and many others, some I have probably forgotten. Over the years It has been an honour and privilege to see our club develop and grow into what it has become today.”

Left to right: Dannie, Neil & Joey

CHRIS NEE PROGRAMME EDITOR

After returning to the Midlands as a non-league football supporter about ten years ago, I visited a few of the local teams and Coventry Sphinx just stuck straight away. I was a season ticket holder at Aston Villa at the time, and gradually I shifted away from going to Sphinx when Villa weren’t playing and towards the reverse.

I used to edit the programme at Tooting & Mitcham United so by the time I was going to home and away games with Sphinx it made sense to start doing it here too. I was fully immersed at the club very quickly and in the last three years I’ve missed two competitive matches. So, I’d say the connection was immediate and thorough.

Last season I didn’t miss a game and I picked the right year for that. We’ve been at Step 5 for my whole time at the club and in 2022/23 we won the league and were promoted to Step 4 for the first time in our history.

People who follow very successful clubs can’t understand why I’m so enthusiastic about what our players achieved last season, winning the last eleven matches to claim the title from a long way behind. But it meant the world to me. I’ve never experienced my team winning the league and I thought I never would. I’ll never forget it.

We face all the usual challenges of a non-league football club, but we tend to just embrace them all and get on with it. Personally, I think the team we have deserves to be seen by more people in the city. Our gate depends heavily on whether the Sky Blues are at home and, while we love our occasional visitors, we certainly need the local community to come with us on our new adventure.

A few days before we won the league in April, we acquired the freehold to our home at Sphinx Drive. It was previously on a long-term lease from RollsRoyce and they did right by us in the way they dealt with us while selling the surrounding land. The additional security we now have means we can take on the ground grading challenge we face as a freshly

minted Step 4 football club, and we are ambitious. The plan for Coventry Sphinx is to grow, to rise, and to do so in a sustainable fashion. This year has been a tremendous next step.

The philosophy of our club isn’t so much a coaching one as a community one. What unifies all of our teams, of all ages, is that they wear

the same badge, the same colours, and they all represent the club in the same way.

Junior football is the heartbeat of Coventry Sphinx. We have both boys’ and girls’ teams at all age groups, ultimately feeding into our youth team and our men’s and women’s first teams. Our title-winning side included a number of former Sphinx juniors and youth team graduates. We’re very proud of that fact.

The mood at the club is positive and excited. There’s a lot of work ahead of us after promotion but nobody here is daunted by it. We are a small community club punching above its weight, and the mood is somewhere between just enjoying the ride and taking great pride in what

“Champions, Step 4 for the first time in our history.”

“What unifies all of our teams, of all ages, is that they wear the same badge, the same colours, and they all represent the club in the same way.”

we’ve done up to this point. The place is still buzzing.

As a club we don’t always set specific targets. Last season, we planned to win the league and we succeeded in that. This season, while I’m sure the managers have waypoints.

We have a women’s first team who play on Sundays at Sphinx Drive. They won their league the day after the men’s team in April, so they’ve stepped up to a really good level too. We also make no distinction between the girls’ teams and the boys’ teams in our junior section – they are simply Coventry Sphinx Juniors.

We work closely with Sky Blues in the Community, which offers walking football on our 3G facility during the week.

Coventry Sphinx is absolutely a community club. This is our focus, first and foremost. We are an FA Charter Standard club and are fiercely proud of our local community and our city. We have around 300 players of all ages and our clubhouse is a community hub that hosts various functions as well as being open throughout the week.

Our sponsors are vital, not just financially but as supporters of what we’re doing and how we go about it. Like most clubs at our level, these relationships begin away from football. They are ultimately about friends and family –people supporting people. Without that, we wouldn’t be able to achieve what we’re achieving throughout the entirety of the club.

This football club is my home. I think we all feel that way. We have a small but committed group of supporters, volunteers and officials, and we live in each other’s pockets for eight months of the year. I wouldn’t change it for the world.

OUR HISTORY

The history of Coventry Sphinx began in 1946. Armstrong Whitworth Aircraft FC had been highly successful in the city before and during the Second World War and changed their name to Sphinx FC.

Coventry underwent significant socioeconomic change in the 1990s. The recession led to the closure of factories in the city and surrounding areas, which in turn led to the dissolution of many of Coventry’s football clubs. Sphinx needed a new challenge and joined the Midland Combination Football League in 1993.

In our first season in the Midland Combination we were promoted from Division 2 and reached the semi-finals of the Birmingham Sunday Vase. A second consecutive promotion followed thanks to a second-placed finish in Division 1 the next season.

With promotion to the top division of the Midland Combination secured it was decided that the club should

be linked more closely to our city. We became Coventry Sphinx and the first match under our new name was against a Coventry City XI at our home ground.

Under manager Paul Charnley, Coventry Sphinx’s men’s first team completed a remarkable treble achievement in May 2007. In addition to finally becoming champions of the Midland Football Combination –achieving promotion to the Midland Football Alliance in the process – Sphinx won the Coventry Charity Cup and the BCFA Midland Floodlit Cup.

The 2007/08 season saw Sphinx enjoy our best ever run in the FA Vase, reaching the quarter-final for the very first time and losing controversially to Kirkham & Wesham, the eventual Wembley winners, in a replay at Sphinx Drive.

Sphinx made a sideways move as part of FA restructuring ahead of the 2021/22 season, competing in a newly formed Premier Division South in the United

Our first team sponsor is: Cahill Contractors (Joe and Liam Cahill) – our chairman, Dannie Cahill, is their father.

“Our family has been involved in the club for more than 25 years. We played for the juniors when we were young lads and loved it.

“There’s been a lot of great people involved in the club over the years and still to this day they are giving children and adults the same experience we were given. With our dad still heavily involved in the club along with Joey Fletcher and Neil Buswell, we felt it only right to offer our support.”

Counties League. In our first season we finished in fourth place, losing only twice in the second half of the season, and enjoyed a long run in the FA Vase, narrowly missing out on another quarter-final.

The following season saw Sphinx lose on penalties again in the same round of the FA Vase but 2022/23 was the best season in our history.

In the space of one week in April, our club acquired the freehold to the Sphinx Drive ground for the very first time and secured the United Counties League Premier Division South title with a 7-0 win against Eynesbury Rovers.

Sphinx won all of the last eleven league matches to close a big gap at the top and become champions. We scored 106 goals and ended the season three points clear of runners-up Rugby Town to confirm promotion to the Northern Premier League Midlands Division. 2023/24 is our first ever season at Step 4.

Leighton Town FC

DOWNEY,

I made my playing debut for the club in 1982 when I arrived in the town to take up a teaching post at Vandyke Upper School. Since then, I enjoyed 2 spells as a player, several as First Team coach/ Assistant Manager and two spells as First Team Manager, my second ending in 2011 when I stepped down after leading the club to 7th place in the Southern League Central Division. I returned in 2017 to help rebuild the football structure at the club and I am now Vice Chair and Director of Football. The club is full of explayers and managers. Shaun Cavanagh our Treasurer, Head of Youth Development and U18 Manager James Heeps, coaches Enzo Silvestri, Guy Kefford and Lee Halling, have all played and managed with distinction at the club over the years.

Six years ago, the playing side of the club was in poor shape. The club’s facilities were in a worrying state of disrepair and there was little in the way of a playing budget to attract the right calibre of manager, coaches, or players. There was a disconnect between the senior club and the youth section and the club and the wider town. There

was no U18 team, and the Development Team needed a major overhaul. It was critical therefore, that we rebuilt the club’s facilities and focused our immediate energies on rebuilding the football structure and the important relationships with our youth section, other clubs across the town and the business community.

Successful bids for a range of FA and Local Authority grants transformed the physical environment at the club, enabling us to successfully market the facilities and establish it as a place supporters and community groups were proud to call home. These developments along with attracting local business investment provided income streams that were instrumental in attracting experienced managers, coaches, and players.

3 FA Vase Quarter Finals in the last 6 years, 3 major trophies for the First Team, including the South Midlands Premier League title last season, are a testament to this plan and the work of First Team managers such as Joe Sweeney and Lee Bircham who helped to put the playing side of the club back on the map. With our newly constituted Development Team gaining promotion to

Step 6 and the U18 team winning the Southern Counties Floodlit Football League and County Cup, the 2022-23 season was one we are all immensely proud of across the club. It is, however, now history, and all eyes are focused on the new challenges that lie ahead.

Our key aim for next season on the pitch, is to consolidate our First Team and Development Team in their new levels of football, Step 4, and Step 6 respectively. This will be a challenge, but one we are all looking forward to. Anything else will be a huge bonus but we all like a bonus! Our U18s will continue to offer an outstanding pathway for our young local players, and we will be hoping to see a few of our Development Team beginning to put themselves in the frame for First Team football after impressing in the pre-season training sessions and friendlies.

Off the pitch, we are continuing to improve the stadium infrastructure and facilities and build further strong relationships with the wider social and business community. The job never stops. If you don’t move forward, you can easily slip backwards and everyone at the club is determined to keep on the front foot.

Our coaching philosophy is gradually developing, and it is based on a belief in hard work, commitment, high expectations, the importance of preparation and ‘team before self’, both on and off the pitch. Key to this has been the role of James Heeps our U18 Manager and his coaches. Now Head of Youth Development, the former professional footballer has brought a refreshing attention to detail and high expectations to every aspect of our work with our young players. This prepares them properly for the demands of non-league football and these expectations are embedded throughout the club.

Fun and enjoyment too, are at the heart of what we do. After all, if you don’t enjoy it what is the point?

I think the best way to describe the mood at the club on the eve of the new season is ‘cautiously optimistic and excited’. We recognise the significant challenges to come, but our excellent new management team, Gary Flinn, Gary Chance, Jimmy Stoyles, Jonny Duggan, and Jim Burnside, are working very hard to rebuild the First Team ready for Step 4, after the departure of Lee Bircham to Bedford Town. We have total faith in them to do a great job after guiding Newport Pagnell FC to consecutive FA Vase Finals and their experience at Step 4 in the past. They have been a pleasure to work with in the pre-season.

In conjunction with our close partners Leighton Woodside, we are working to establish a new woman’s team and creating pathways for girls through the provision of football at U15 and U16 next season. It is early days, but progress has been excellent so far and will add a further positive strand to our football and community provision.

Our youth section is immensely important to our club. It continues to go from strength to strength and currently provides football for 25 teams across the age range. It is led by a committed group of volunteers and coaches. Chair Dan Turney, a highly successful Elvis impersonator, has done a superb job both in the youth section and in helping to establish the U18s and the new young Development Team. Amongst a number of projects, the youth section is currently developing pandisability football opportunities for young people in the town. This is an exciting and important development if we are to be the fully inclusive club we have ambitions to be.

We work very hard with our

“It is the people that make Leighton Town FC the special place we believe it to be...everyone at the club is determined to keep on the front foot.”

SEAN

VICE CHAIR AND DIRECTOR OF FOOTBALL

Bedfordshire Senior Cup win May 2022

community and view Leighton Town FC as ‘more than a football club’. During the week we become a church, school, fitness studio, and hub for parents and toddlers, senior citizens, business training events and networking groups, men’s mental health support group as well as a centre for a variety of functions from weddings to funerals, birthday celebrations to Christenings. Our community is everything to us and we have built strong relationships with a number of community groups. Our mascot programme on Saturday matchdays has brought boys and girls from a range of youth football clubs in the town and their families into the club, and this is one important factor that explains the sizable support we have rebuilt over the past few years.

Our Partners/Sponsors are an integral part of the club. Without their unwavering support we would not have been able to achieve what we have over the last few years. Some like Robbie Brightman, Sean Hancock, Leigh Adams, Jack Copson, Liam Fry and Steve Mills have played for the club and many are ex-students of mine who have made a real success of their businesses and want to give back to the community. We are not reliant on any one source of sponsorship but have worked hard to build relationships with many local businesses, offering packages to suit all budgets. We have currently have well

over 40 sponsors and this is growing all the time. Many of our sponsors are extremely loyal and have renewed their support year on year for the past 4 years. Some have opted to become Platinum Partners to help us fund the ground improvements we need to make for Step 4. This includes Osborne, Morris and Morgan Solicitors, Buttles Building Merchants, Jackson-Phillips Automotive Services, Energie Fitness Leighton Buzzard, Freed Veneers, and Luca Tia Design.

Picture a wet, breezy Sunday morning. It is 9 am and a group of committee members and hardened supporters gather at the club, paint brushes and rollers in hand. Today’s job; paint the ‘bottom stand’! It is the people that make Leighton Town FC the special place we believe it to be. The buzz at the stadium on a Saturday matchday is palpable and watching local people from across the age range, enjoying coming together to support their local team, socialise and feel a sense of belonging, is what brings all of us at the club huge satisfaction. It makes all the work that goes on behind the scenes worthwhile! Add a great result and the ‘Reds Bar’ is buzzing!

The Leighton Town FC community is very special to me, our committee, supporters, and the town. It has been a huge privilege

to be part of the club’s most recent journey both on and off the field over the past 6 years. We have a talented and hardworking committee, a large group of committed volunteers, fantastic supporters and a growing list of amazing local businesses who have been willing to invest in LTFC to help re-establish Leighton Town FC as a thriving community football club. The Beds FA and the local town and county councils have also

been tremendously helpful and supportive. Much remains to be done, but we have a solid business and football structure and great managers, coaches and players working together to build on the successes of the recent past. With a proud history as a club to measure up to, we know the coming season is going to be a tough one, but the Leighton Town community stands united, strong, and ready for the challenge.

Bell Close: The home of Leighton Town FC

LEIGHTON TOWN FOOTBALL CLUB: COMMUNITY FOCUS

In a growing town it is critical that we maintain and develop the social hubs that bring people together. Leighton Town FC is, therefore, ‘more than a football club’: it is an important hub for the local community.

SUPPORTERS

We have been successful in accessing funding from the FA and Football Foundation to improve the match day experience for our supporters. This includes the refurbishment of the Main Stand and Tea Bar. Perimeter fencing has been up-graded and the pitch improved. Whilst all these improvements clearly benefit the playing side of the club it has also encouraged an increase in the gates (4-500) and engendered a feeling of local pride. All visitors comment on the excellent environment we

YOUTH

The club runs youth teams from U7, right through the age ranges to U18. This allows hundreds of young local players the opportunity to belong; to improve and develop both their football and social and personal skills and attributes. The club also offers the families of these players a hub in which to socialise and stage important

have created and the “special feel” the club has on match days. What is very poignant is the mental health support that takes place on matchdays; much of this is intangible: but providing a natural, supportive, safe environment within which many find a sense of belonging, is an important part of what we offer as a community football club.

COMMUNITY GROUPS

The club is used by a range of social groups and organisations throughout the week that need a hub for their activities. For example:

‘The Friday Club’

This is a very successful community group of senior citizens who meet weekly at the club. It is very well attended and many depend on the Friday Club to give them a sense of belonging. There is a fantastic atmosphere, and a wide

events such as fundraisers and presentation evenings. We have built strong partnerships with many other youth football clubs in Leighton and the surrounding area and have formed a special partnership with Leighton Woodside within which we are building opportunities for girls, women, and children with disabilities to take part in the ‘beautiful game’.

range of activities are offered.

Men’s Mental Health Support Group

This group meets once a month and is well attended. Support is provided through regular guest speakers who provide specialist advice, sharing of issues amongst the group and the creation of a ‘buddy’ system.

Art Venturers

This is a group that provide fun and educational stimulation for young children. It runs 2 days a week and is well attended. It also offers an opportunity for young parents to make connections and receive advice on parenting and other social and health related matters. It is a great mutual support group that parents value hugely.

Christian Church

On Sundays and Wednesday evenings the club becomes a place of worship for a growing congregation. Much pastoral work is carried out to support those that attend.

Business Network Meetings and Training and Development Days

The club hosts a monthly Business Network Meeting and Leighton Town is a key/ partner sponsor of this group, MK Collaborate in Leighton Buzzard. We hold training and development events for some local companies as our facilities are excellent and we have excellent car parking

free of charge.

Yoga and Fitness Clubs

The well-being of local people is supported by a range of clubs that focus on physical and mental health and well-being.

Charity Events:

The club provides a hub for a number of charity events each year. Sometimes this is charity football matches but often it is fundraising social events in the function room, ‘The Venue’.

A hub for Social Events: The club is an important venue for a range of social events including Weddings, Birthday Parties, Funerals and Christenings.

PUPIL REFERRAL UNIT

From Monday to Wednesday each week the ‘Reds Bar’ is used by a Community Interest Company, ‘Directional CIC’, who support students aged 8-12 with behavioural issues and low self-esteem through mentoring and coaching. These students have often been excluded from school and need therapeutic interventions to help them back into mainstream school. Such is the success of this programme a further day has been requested for the next academic year.

We are proud to host such a range of groups and play our part in supporting our community in Leighton Buzzard and Linslade.

Refurbished Reds Bar. Great atmosphere on match days

MEMBERS & SPONSORS COMMENTS

Gavin Campbell: “Freed Veneers Ltd/The Wood Veneer Hub is a new sponsor for the club this season, and we believe that now is the right time to deepen our involvement with Leighton Town FC. The football club is centrally located in the heart of the town, serving as a crucial focal point for the community and the surrounding areas. After visiting the club and its facilities, we felt compelled to offer our support to Sean and his team. Witnessing the club’s efforts not only on the football field but also within the community was inspiring, and we hope this

continues for a long time. We wish Leighton Town FC a successful season, both on and off the pitch, and eagerly anticipate being an active sponsor for many seasons to come.”

Mark Boucher: Having had the privilege of playing football at a high level and forming lifelong friendships along the way, it’s now my turn to give back and provide opportunities for others. Although I’m not originally from Leighton, being here has allowed me to connect with new people. Initially, I watched matches as a spectator when I first moved here, and I was involved in the youth setup while my

son was growing up. It’s truly an honor to be a part of a well-organized and forwardthinking football club.

Dean Marshall:

As a local resident, I’ve been a loyal supporter of Leighton Town for many years. The club serves as a gathering place for families, friends, and football enthusiasts, and it plays an essential role in the local community, serving various organizations and businesses. By aligning our business with a club deeply embedded in the community, we have a valuable opportunity to cultivate strong relationships with potential customers and be associated with the positive emotions and shared

experiences tied to the club. This connection enhances brand loyalty and recognition.

Paul Lockhart:

Supporting our local community is of utmost importance to us, and we’ve proudly sponsored Leighton Town Football Club for over four years now. As a small business, we are committed to helping the club achieve its goals and objectives, which include improving their inhouse facilities, maintaining the football pitch, and recruiting new players. We are thrilled with this partnership and extend our best wishes to the team for the upcoming season and beyond.

Frenford FC

DAVID FORBES

TEAM MANAGER

` I have been lucky enough to have a club that truly trusted me and allowed my family to become an integral part of them.`

My Dad first introduced me to the club after he had played for them for many years. In 1990 I joined Frenford which at the time was playing park football. The club ran 5 senior sides, and it was a real family club and I enjoyed playing mainly because of the great atmosphere. I finished playing in 2002/03 due to a knee injury and decided to go into management and took charge of the reserve team.

Then in October 2006/07 I took over the reins of the 1st team, since then we have had success in level 7 winning the league twice and the county cup twice.

In 2018/19, after finishing Runners up the previous season, we moved up to the newly formed level 6 run by the Thurlow Nunn league.

Last season we were finally able to win that league and move to level 5 and into the Essex Senior League and this year will see us compete in the

FA Cup for the first time ever in our history.

This will be my 17th season as 1st Team Manager and I continue to enjoy the way the club operates.

I have been lucky enough to have a club that truly trusted me and allowed my family to become a integral part of them and we have managed to go from strength to strength on the pitch and equally off it too.

Frenford have gone from playing park football, moving to numerous grounds to now having our own 3G pitch, are ground fit for level 5 and with the capacity to move to step 4. The board is ambitious and continues to draw up plans to further improve the facilities but in doing so have still not lost our family and community spirit that has made it all so enjoyable.

The main challenges in getting to where we are today, has been the constant battle to obtain good enough facilities for ground grading and we have been lucky enough to receive great support from football organisations. The committee are all volunteers and they

work endless hours to keep driving the club forward and where we are now is really a credit to them all, myself and the team get many accolades and recognition but it is truly the behind the scenes and people like Eddie Fowles, George Georghiou, Nicola Forbes and Irfan Shah plus many others that deserve the praise.

Our plans on the field are to establish ourselves in step 5, but as a club we want to go to take it to the next level. We are building an excellent youth set up and hopefully will start seeing these youngsters feed through to the first team. Off the field there is plans to develop the stadium with new changing rooms and a new bar with canteen etc. that will hopefully keep encouraging a good matchday experience and increase our support from the local community.

The mood at the club is Vibrant from youth section all the way up to 1st team with a real good community feel.

The club in recent years has been lucky enough to have people like Dean Smith (Ex Aston Villa manager ) and Luke Williams (Notts County Manager) coach at the club, Luke actually played for our 1st team and Reserve side.

Last season was a very successful for the club with promotion to level 5 for the

1st team and our Over 45s also won their league.

New territory for the club playing at level 5 next season and also in the FA Cup. It’s important for the club to establish itself at step 5 and then try to improve and progress further.

The FA cup has, meant a sense of excitement around the club to play in such a prestigious and historic competition.

Frenford is certainly a community club with our superb facilities and 3G pitch allowing for participation at all levels and ages of football.

It’s been tough getting local businesses on board since covid but we are hoping this season being in FA cup etc will give them new energy to come on board with the club.

GTC Electricals have been our kit sponsor for the last seasons and continue to support the club as does the many advertising board sponsors we have around the pitch.

The 2023/2024 is nearly upon us and a new chapter in the annals of Frenford Football Club awaits to be written!

NEAL AKHTAR YOUTH TEAMS LEADER

I became connected with Frenford at the age of 15 when I used to take part in football activity, I subsequently became a voluntary support worker

“The 2023/2024 Season will see us compete in the FA Cup for the first time ever in our history.”

in the recreational football sessions being delivered at the club. Eventually I was overseeing a session for 14–16-year-olds every Friday which would become the starting point of the football youth activity we have at the club today.

I worked to encourage and support young people into coaching who became leaders of a number of our programmes. We now have 90 coaches associated with the club who help the development of our football in one or other capacity.

I have been heavily involved with the FA coaching pathway and am now qualified up to UEFA B level. I became a FA coach Mentor and FA Coach developer for the UEFA C in 2021.

The main challenges we have were during the initial stages in our development, back in 2010 we had to engage with our local community and develop team offers that would suit their ability to commit to football activity. Our teams all started at a central venue league (ELE) initially which was a perfect introduction to competitive football for many of the parents at the time who previously had no involvement with the game. Over time further engagement with parents and participants enabled us to move into a traditional football league with home and away matches.

We needed to enter these leagues as both an education piece to our players and parents at the time, but also to ensure that we were doing our part to facilitate the development of football participation for our local community.

Our football teams now compete in both the Echo League and the Eastern Junior Alliance.

We are continuing our objectives of being a development hub for

local young people and endeavour to provide them with a programme and player pathway which is akin to an Academy system without the funding… we are fortunate to have a facility which is equivalent to a CAT 3 or 4 venue and are now developing ways to best utilise the facility in the development of our young people.

We hope to develop our ground further to compliment the programme including the building of more multi-use areas which will be used for Futsal and other sports as well as a new changing pavilion and multi-use function hall to be used as an adaptable space to both support our youth work programming and sport offering.

At a basic one-line level “what is tactically desirable has to be technically possible.” We prioritise the development of technique and give players a lot of experience within 1v1, 2v2 and 2v1 formats so they are confident on the ball but also develop a sense of when it is best to share it.

There is a strong excitement for the season ahead and a strong desire to be more innovative and purposeful with what we are doing in the youth setup to develop players capable of playing for our first team and preferably beyond!

We have had a few players trial in at various academies inclusive of West Ham, Ipswich, Colchester, Southend, Norwich and Leyton Orient we haven’t unfortunately had a signing through the youth setup yet. Though we continue to have good networks and connections in with these clubs and others.

We have a unique partnership which seeks to provide opportunities for local young people to be talent spotted for the academy. Frenford are a youth club first and foremost and we endeavour to provide access

A LITTLE ABOUT OUR HISTORY

The club was formed in 1943 during the war years and played in local leagues in and around Ilford.

The club kept expanding its teams from 1 up to 5 by the end of the 80s.

The 90s saw the club compete in the Essex intermediate league which then changed its name to the Essex Olympian league.

In 2003/04 Frenford had its first major success by winning the Essex Premier Cup which it would go on to win a further 2 times in 2010/2011 and 2015/16.

For the first time in our club’s history, it won The Essex

to opportunity for young people regardless of their club affiliation.

It has been an up and down season as it should be in youth football, young people need a variety of games if they are to develop in the sport. Our ambitions for next season are to have a more streamlined focus on our foundation age groups so that they are being appropriately developed in order to potentially lose a number of them to academies by age 10 and ensure they have the foundation base needed to play at a higher

Olympian League in 2011/12 and then repeated the feat in 2012/13, in this period the League Cup was also won twice.

In 2018/19 season we were promoted to the Thurlow Nunn League and in 2022/23 we were crowned champions and promoted to Essex Senior League.

Frenford now boasts a 1st team at level 5 and an U/23s and development side at Level 7 and a 4th team for recreational players to keep up the tradition of providing football for all abilities.

We also run 2 vets’ sides and now have successful youth section and women’s teams.

level when they reach U13s.

FRENFORD AND MSA WOMEN FC

Frenford andMSA Women FC was established in 2018 to encourage females to play the beautiful game and overcome their barriers to participation. It started with a struggle to persuade even a handful of players to turn up to training sessions. Now, we have two teams and record numbers of players joining the grassroots football scene.

The club was formed as a direct response to the lack of representation in football of local girls and women in Redbridge, the home of Frenford andMSA, which is one of the most ethnically diverse areas in London.

Levels of sporting participation amongst female residents particularly within our BAME communities are lower than average and this was one of the key issues that Frenford andMSA sought to challenge at a grassroots level.

Yasmin Hussain is a player and head coach at the team. She explains how her challenges in the coaching role “differs from other clubs... a large part of it is reassuring players they are good enough to play, because they’ve not really seen South

Asian females at any level of competitive football.” Yasmin stresses that “visibility is key” and herself being a Muslim coach of Bengali background has been central in directly challenging these perceptions and giving players the selfbelief to join.

Despite the initial struggle to recruit players, a 5 a-side team was formed to join a local league. Since then, we have expanded. Midweek evening fixtures have become the highlight of the week. Hanna Ahmed, who has been part of the team since its formation, describes how competitive football has helped her “to implement the skills I’ve learnt in training and develop my communication with my team mates. We’ve come so far and not only advanced individually, but together as an entire team.”

For me, a distinctive part of the club culture is its aim to create a long-term impact beyond our successes on the pitch. Players are encouraged to complete coaching programs to develop leadership skills and train the next generation of footballers. Girls’ training programmes are a stepping stone to joining the senior team. Moreover, the recent opening of a 3G football pitch at Frenford Clubs has provided state-ofthe-art training and match facilities. This sets up the club for a sustainable future and is another active step towards making sure that future generations of local girls do not miss out on football.

What started off as smallscale training sessions has culminated into a series of achievements that has seen Frenford andMSA join the Super 5 League, win a tournament at Stamford

Bridge, establish two teams and more recently venture into the unfamiliar territory of 11 a-side. Friendships for life have been formed, rooted by a common passion for football. Above all though, the real achievement and significance of Frenford andMSA is clear – that when females are provided a welcoming, inclusive and accessible environment to play football, it will succeed, regardless of individual backgrounds and abilities.

Frenford andMSA WFC conduct outreach work into the local community, delivering schools programmes for girls and supporting the development of girls football in the area by helping to support the local schools programme and facilitating festival days for new wildcats teams.

Youth Football is Incredibly important, our football club is an off-shoot of our youth club which was founded in 1928.

Frenford Youth Club who provide community projects in sports, education and creative arts to fulfil the needs of the local youth community. The club is based at the Jack Carter Centre in Ilford in East London and has over 4500 young people using its services per year, approximately 2600 young people participate in one of our Frenford led activities per month.

The club has a focus on community enhancement through promoting personal development and social education.

Frenford strives to support and improve young people’s mental health, self-confidence, and essential skills through leisure time activities of Social,

Cultural, Educational, and Physical

pursuits.

Frenford aims to assist young people to develop a range of life skills to integrate and become responsible citizens.

Through the variety of programs we offer, we have been able to engage with young people from deprived backgrounds affected by poverty, crime, mental illhealth, or bullying, all of which can be factors contributing to low self-esteem and selfconfidence issues.

As a football club attached to a youth club we have a responsibility to get to know our young participants, build relationships with them, and identify avenues where we can support them to have better futures. We understand that this approach is effective, and has benefited numerous young

people who have gone on to be successful in their chosen fields

We are a community football club; we prioritise supporting local young people and value their feedback to develop the projects we deliver for them. We are always in need to sponsors to help subsidise the cost of sporting activity for young people. We currently do not have an extensive list of local businesses involved with the club. Though we are immensely grateful and appreciative of the ones who have supported us. These include the Tekk Group, Hills Estates, Ilford Dental Care and Rahman Lowe Solicitors. We don’t have enough but the ones kind enough to support us are immensely valuable. Their contributions to the club help to keep the fees down for all young people attending.

Frenford Football Club are a warm welcoming club who prioritise the development of local young people both within the game and as individual people.

GARETH

including at Frenford FC, I cannot speak highly enough about the great people and friendships I have made through this club.

David Forbes and his family have gone beyond the call, and I was very sad to hear of his father David Forbes senior passing recently. I still remember his Scottish accent ringing in my ears, and I don’t think I’ve ever come across such a devoted clubman in all my days in football. The club just won’t be the same without him.

Last season was truly an outstanding one for the club leading to a first ever FA Cup appearance. However, off the pitch they are blessed with so many good people whom I could only describe as unsung heroes. Tirelessly work away in the background ensuring football will be played here for many more decades to come.

It was an easy choice for me to become a principal sponsor of Frenford Football Club; knowing so many members on a personal level I always knew that they would continue to take care of club and community alike.

MAIN

SPONSOR: GTC FIRE & ELECTRICAL. Having been involved in football for many years,

I would like to wish everyone, from players, coaches and fans all the very best of continued success for the rest of the 2023/2024 campaign and hope to see you all soon!

COLLINS, SUPPORTER, FORMER MANAGER,

Macclesfield FC

“...Are back!”

ROBBIE SAVAGE

DIRECTOR OF FOOTBALL, reflects on the remarkable journey of Macclesfield FC’s resurgence.

Just over two years ago, we faced a daunting challenge: we didn’t have a single player. Our goal was clear - to build a team throughout the first season, ensuring we could retain 10 players for the second season and then bolster that core with additional talent. By the third season, our objective was to retain and attract an even higher caliber of players to propel us into the NPL premiership.

No club has ever won the NWCPL, NPL1, and NPL consecutively, so this season is bound to be tough. However, with a consistent message, a well-defined process, a deep understanding of our model, and strong recruitment efforts, I believe we will be contenders once again. As owners, both Rob and I value transparency and engage actively with our fans, fostering a monthly dialogue. Consequently, our fan base has tripled to an average of 3,846!

Our academy is thriving, boasting one of the largest

BTEC programs in the country. Matchday spending per person has significantly increased, and we’ve learned a great deal in a short time, with Rob as a football CEO and myself as Director of Football. Macclesfield FC has indeed made a triumphant return, and we are committed to continually striving for excellence.

We’ve been inundated with sponsorship requests for this season, and if you or your company would like to join us on this exciting journey, please get in touch. Our matchday experience is among the best in non-league football. We want to express our gratitude for the incredible support we’ve received; see you all soon!

The transformation of our grounds has been nothing short of remarkable since the takeover. We’ve replaced natural grass with 4G Astro, allowing us to use the pitch every day. A new Fan Zone featuring tents, BBQ areas, and a bar, along with brandnew seating, a state-of-the-art gym open to the public, and a Club Shop/Reception, are just a few of the recent upgrades.

A BIT OF OUR HISTORY: Macclesfield FC has

deep roots within the local community and the surrounding prestigious areas. Originally founded in 1874, the club was reborn in 2020 under the leadership of successful businessman Robert Smethurst and former Premier League and Welsh international footballer Robbie Savage. Over £4 million has been invested in the club over the past two years, making Macclesfield FC one of the fastest-growing clubs in the country.

In April 2022, we clinched the North West Counties Football League – Premier Division title with a staggering fifteen-point lead. The club gained national recognition with a BBC documentary that garnered over three million views. In the 2022/23 season, we secured back-to-back league titles by winning the Northern Premier League –West Division with a fourteenpoint lead. For the 2023/24 season, Macclesfield FC will compete in the Northern Premier League – Premier, which is tier 3 of non-league football.

Excitement is palpable as we look ahead to the upcoming season. In the first half of the 2022/23 season, Brazilian goalkeeper Marcelo Pitulga joined us on loan from Liverpool FC, adding to the excitement. Unfortunately, an injury sidelined him for the

latter part of the season. We also witnessed a young player, who started in our U16 team, make his way into our first team before signing for Burley.

WOMENS FOOTBALL

Inspired by the remarkable success of the Lionesses and our Women’s First Team’s achievements, we are committed to leveling the playing field. We recently claimed the Cheshire

Women’s & Youth Football League – Championship Division title in the 2021/22 season and secured the league cup in the 2022/23 season.

For the first time, players representing Macclesfield FC Women’s First Team will be compensated for their efforts, receive free training kits, and benefit from state-of-the-art PlayerData technology to enhance their performance.

All registrations will be covered by the Club. We are also offering free training sessions at the Leasing.com Stadium and have made significant investments in coaching.

Our academy, which comprises over 400 boys and girls aged 6-16, trains at the Leasing.com Stadium twice a week and competes in weekend games.

COMMUNITY ENGAGEMENT:

We are deeply involved in our community, offering 660 free tickets to disadvantaged families, schools, and local teams. Our facilities are used by local teams and communities throughout the week. The Savage Foundation, launched by Robbie Savage in March 2021, provides free grassroots football to children aged 5-11, with over 400 players now participating for free. The Foundation is dedicated to offering young people opportunities for physical activity in a safe, fun, and engaging environment, eliminating barriers to participation. It is run entirely by volunteers, including coaches.

BOB TRAFFORD, HEAD OF COMMERCIAL AND SPONSORSHIPS, acknowledges the crucial role of sponsors in the club’s success. Their support has been instrumental in creating a competitive First Team budget, ultimately leading to our achievements. Without our sponsors, this remarkable journey would have been far more challenging.

NICK BIANCHI, OFFICIAL CLUB AMBASSADOR OF MACCLESFIELD FC & BRAND DIRECTOR FOR CLUB SPONSOR: ARIGHI

BIANCHI.

My family’s connection with Macclesfield FC goes back generations. It all started when my great-grandfather, Antonio Bianchi, arrived in Macclesfield in 1854. Since then, this club has held a special place in our hearts. From my grandfather, John Bianchi, to my father, Paul, and now to me, along with my 7-year-old son, Harrison, we’ve all been passionate supporters of this fantastic club.

Our relationship with the club has continued, and during the remarkable five-year period from 2018, when we reached the National Leagues, Arighi Bianchi was proud to be

DANNY TAYLOR HEAD OF MEDIA AND MARKETING

A lot of developments have taken place on the ground since the take-over such as, the replacement of grass with 4G Astro to allow use of the pitch every day. A new Fan Zone with tent, BBQ area & Bar, all new Seats, brand new Bar & Restaurant, new state of the art Gymnasium open to the public, plus a new Club Shop/Reception.

the main shirt sponsor. In my role as an official ambassador for the club, I make it a point to attend all home fixtures. I’m always available to speak with new members and sponsors, sharing our club’s history, our future ambitions, and why Macclesfield is such a wonderful club to be a part of.

The contributions of individuals like Robbie Savage and Rob Smethurst have made a significant impact on our club. This season, we find ourselves competing in the Northern Premier League, where the fixtures are naturally more challenging. We had a promising pre-season, and our home games have seen impressive attendance, with crowds approaching 4,000 on matchdays.

Preserving our longstanding history and the Macclesfield DNA has been essential for us. It serves as a reminder of how far the Silkmen have come. With investments in our facilities, growing support, and our rich history, our club offers an attractive package for anyone interested in joining us.

The atmosphere at Macclesfield FC is filled with excitement. We’re hoping for a memorable cup run this season, which would further boost the confidence and enthusiasm we’re experiencing as we look forward to another thrilling season!

DAVE TIMMIS, LEASING. COM MD, said: “We’re delighted to have secured this sponsorship and to be a part of the exciting rebuild of the historic Football Club.

Clubs like Macclesfield FC are the heart of local communities. Leasing.com is committed to supporting local businesses and sporting clubs and we are excited to start this journey with the new owner and loyal fan base.

Macclesfield is very close to home for me too and I love taking my sons to the Leasing. com Stadium.”

DANNY WHITAKER, THE HEAD OF PLAYER DEVELOPMENT, has been instrumental in shaping a clear pathway for our youth players to make their way to the first team. Since the inception of the club, this pathway has been an integral part of our philosophy: “If you’re good enough, you’re old enough.” Danny believes in giving young talents the opportunity they deserve, and it’s heartening to witness numerous players getting their shot. He envisions a future

where even more promising talents will be granted the same chance to prove themselves on the big stage. At the core of our club’s identity are a set of unwavering values that serve as the foundation for our success:

1. Hard Working: Danny emphasizes the importance of an unwavering commitment to hard work and striving to be the best. Our players are encouraged to push their limits, both on and off the field.

2. Respectful: Respect is a key pillar of our club culture. Danny insists that players not only respect the game but also their fellow teammates and coaches. This respect forms the basis for a cohesive and supportive team environment.

3. High Standards: We take immense pride in our players’ desire to progress and become the best versions of themselves. Danny instills the belief that maintaining high standards is the path to achieving greatness.

4. Attitude: A positive mental attitude is crucial in the world of sports. Danny underscores the significance of maintaining

MAKING YOU LOOK THE BUSINESS...

a positive mindset even in the face of challenges. It’s this attitude that enables our players to overcome obstacles and keep moving forward.

5. Positivity: Positivity, at all times, is a mantra Danny champions. It’s not just about having a good attitude; it’s about fostering a culture of optimism within the team. A positive outlook can be the driving force behind victories and success.

Under Danny Whitaker’s leadership, our club is not just focused on developing talented players but also nurturing wellrounded individuals who embody these core values. Through this holistic approach, we are not only creating future stars but also responsible, respectful, and determined individuals who will leave a positive mark on and off the pitch.

JASON CARPENTER, SUPPORTER & SPONSOR: SPIRAL COLOURS

Macclesfield wasn’t my hometown originally, but it’s where I call home now. My connection with the local football club has roots that run deep, weaving through time and family ties. It all began with my then father-in-law, back when I first moved to the town. Those were the days when we’d head out together to witness the magic unfold on the football pitch.

The journey I’ve embarked on with this club has been

nothing short of exhilarating. It’s been a ride through the annals of history, from the era of the formidable John Askey, who steered the club back into the Football League as champions of the National League, to our current endeavour’s as we climb the league ladder once more.

Last season was a spectacle to behold. Our team displayed extraordinary prowess, coasting to victory in their league and securing a welldeserved promotion. The players consistently rose to the occasion, especially in crucial matches like the one against Leek – a testament to their unwavering teamwork.

This season, however, has posed its own set of challenges. Some opponents have proven to be a formidable force, often resorting to confrontational and physically demanding tactics. It’s a test not only for the players but also for the referees, tasked with maintaining fairness at this level. But amidst the rough and tumble, Macclesfield shines brightest when the beautiful game takes centre stage and both teams want to play football.

The crowds flocking to support the club have swelled, with over 3000 passionate fans filling the stands at every home game. My company, Spiral Colours, is honoured to

play a part as a club sponsor, a commitment we’ve upheld for the past eight years.

I was raised on a diet of non-league football, following teams like Northwich Victoria FC. Non-league was always described as “proper football,” and it’s a sentiment that resonates with me to this day.

What truly sets Macclesfield FC apart is the enduring sense of family that envelops the club. From players to fans to members, there’s an unmistakable bond that unites us all. My daughter, Jasmine, is a fervent fan of the club.

She revels in the excitement of meeting the players and the thrills of the matchday experience. This is the essence of football – an engagement that spans generations, involving grandparents, parents, and children alike.

On behalf of myself and everyone at Spiral Colours, I extend my heartfelt congratulations to everyone associated with the club for yet another competitive start to this season. May the team continue to thrive and achieve great success throughout the 2023/24 campaign!

Chalford FC, Champions 2022/2023

I first joined the club as a 14-year-old which was around 24 years ago. Started off as a youngster just finding

his feet in senior football and steadily over time that’s developed. I had a period as player manger of the 1st team between 2010-2012 but that was more due to the fact

nobody else was willing to do it. Due to a couple of factors I then left the club and joined a coaching team else where before returning to the club in 2015 as a player.

Unfortunately I ruptured my ACL at the end of the 2016 season in a cup final, my initial thoughts were that was time to step away from football completely but thankfully Lee Pritchard who was 1st team manager convinced me to join him as assistant manager, then at the start of the 2017/18 season Lee stepped down and I took on the running of the 1st team again.

Running grass roots clubs has become much tougher since the pandemic, I think some players lost the love for it and found other things to do with their weekends. We’ve been fortunate at Chalford, we are a good family club with a strong youth system and we’ve managed to maintain 4 sides and they’ve pretty much remained competitive for most of it as well. We run a `One Club` mentality so everyone sings off the sale hymn sheet and that’s stood us in good stead.

The plan has always been to take the club as far as it can go without stretching its boundaries. The 1st team won the league last year but unfortunately lost a playoff game to gain promotion to the county league. We’ve developed the ground a little over the last couple of years, barriers around the pitch, new dugouts and we are in the process of trying to upgrade the changing facilities. Everything we do is self funded so again it’s about doing what we can without over stretching ourselves.

Our philosophy throughout the club is to be fully inclusive & ensure we provide an environment that people enjoy. Yes we want to develop talent at senior and junior level and then give them a pathway to step up,

however we are conscious that sometimes development can take time so it’s all about understanding the players and what they need from us.

Considering the end of last season, the mood is good, going unbeaten all season as we did then losing a playoff had a hugely negative impact over the summer with a lot players and myself considering what was next for us. That said we’ve had a regroup and managed to keep the majority of last seasons squad together with the exception of 2. So the mood is good we are looking forward to a new season and seeing where we can get to.

Last season for the 1st team was a fantastic year completing a league and cup double was a superb feat, now we have to see where we can go this season. Our reserves are established in Stroud Division 1 and after 4 years of middle table finishes our goal is a promotion challenge this year.

The 3rds and 4th play in Stroud League 3 and 6 respectively, this is a mixture of players who maybe winding their playing days down and youngsters we are looking to develop. The ambition as a club once again is to maintain a positive player environment which people enjoy, this also then reflects in the social events we host at

“Our philosophy throughout the club is to be fully inclusive and ensure we provide an environment that people enjoy.”

BEN POWELL

1ST TEAM MANAGER

the sports and social club.

The youth section is huge, 8 of last years 1st team squad have represented Chalford at youth level so that shows the importance it has on the club’s future. Our current patch of youth team coaches are a great bunch, yet there is a focus on developing players for the future but also a big concentration on being an inclusive environment that gives the youngsters somewhere they enjoy coming to and having fun.

Many Saturday afternoons we’ll see youth team players and coaches or parents watching our senior sides and that’s fantastic to see.

WOULD

YOU CONSIDER YOURS TO BE A COMMUNITY CLUB AND IF YES HOW DO YOU ENGAGE WITH LOCAL PEOPLE/BUSINESSES?

We are absolutely a community club; our committee and sponsors are all local people who have been involved with the club in recent years. Our recent beer festival turned over £15000 and it’s was greatly supported by everyone. We engage heavily in social media but also positive word of mouth too. Without sponsors it would be a huge struggle, their support enables us to offer better facilities, kit and environment to play in. We also do a lot of in house fundraising to add other bits and ensure we keep ourselves sustainable.

The people are what makes our club such a great place to be, without them Chalford Football Club wouldn’t be there. We are renowned for being a very sociable club who always show good hospitality to others and also travel well on away days. There’s no them or us at Chalford we always aim to be have a `One Club ‘mentality where everyone has the same opportunities.

CHALFORD FC HISTORY

Founded in 1891 Chalford joined the Mid-Glos League in 1894 playing their games at the Pleasure Ground whilst changing in the YMCA hut. As with many clubs during this time membership of more than one league was normal and in 1898 they also joined the newly formed Dursley and District League, winning the league in 1900-01. 1902 saw the formation of the Stroud and District League with again Chalford being founder members.

In 1922 the club were founding members of the Gloucestershire Northern Senior League and in fact took part in the first ever league game when the club visited Broadwell. Despite taking a 2-0 lead they eventually lost 3-2. The club continued membership for 5 seasons but withdrew due to financial reasons and entered the newly formed Stroud Premier Division.

In 1931 they rejoined the GNSL retaining membership until the outbreak of WWII.

By this time the club was now playing at the Sycamores using the local Mechanics Pub as their changing quarters.

After the war they immediately rejoined the GNSL and in 1953 with the formation of two Divisions they found themselves in Division One. In the mid 50s plans were well afoot to have a permanent home at Highfield and on 31st August 1957 the first game was played on the new ground with Chalford beating Bream 6-1. This game was actually a Division 2 fixture with the club having been relegated the season before.

By strange coincidence

the club finished Runners-Up in 1958-59 behind Bream regaining their Division One status. By 1962-63 they were back in Division 2. In 197576 they finished Runners- Up in Division 2 behind local rivals Forest Green Rovers Reserves. 1977-78 saw the zenith of the clubs success with the lifting of the GNSL Championship.

The title race wentdown tothe wire with Championship

rivals Lydney Town the visitors to Highfield on the last game of the season. In front of a large crowd Lydney had a goal disallowed and then a penalty saved before goals from Paul Tester and Nick Rock (penalty) secured a 2-0 win and that first Championship win. Sadly the club were relegated back to Division 2 in 198182 and even worse followed with their relegation from the league in 1987.

After 15 seasons in the doldrums the club finally regained their GNSL membership in 2002 immediately gaining promotion after finishing third behind Warden Hull United and Whitecroft. Relegation in 2006 saw them flounder in Division 2 for 1 seasons before winning the Division ni 2016-17. After finishing Runners Up to Sharpness in 2018-19 the club si now hoping to emulate the 1977-78 season and lift the title again.

The 2021/22 saw the club once again finish runners-up in Division One but this time finishing 7 points behind Cheltenham Civil Service. They did however lift the Reg Davis Trophy for the 2nd time running by beating the eventual league champions 4-3 in an exhilarating final at Lydney that went right to the wire. The club are therefore keen to make league history by being the first club to achieve a hat-trick of wins.

Last season the club went 1 better and secured the GNSL league title win with an unbeaten record, winning 25 games and drawing 3. We also made it a hat trick or Reg Davis Cup wins by defeating Dursley 3-2 in the final.

MARTIN SMITH, CHAIRMAN.

Chalford FC is very much `One Club` in everything we do. It is our people, members, players and supporters that make us such a special club to be part of. I can honestly say it is an honour to be their Chairman.

I started of coaching my son’s team for Chalford Youth F.c in the U9`s and had the pleasure of seeing many of those lads come all the way through to U`17s. Last season I managed our 4th team and this season I am the 3rd team manager as well as club chair. I suppose our club is all about friendship and community. A parent from the youth section approached me one time about his son joining us and I emphasised that we were not all about success, as we believe that football is for everyone and refused to use criticism as tool for success. Our goal was simply about watching the kids go home with a smile on their faces. After his first match I praised his son for his performance and was approached by his dad who said that was the first time in four years he had heard a coach compliment his boy.

At Chalford we understand that children are children and need encouragement and praise not negativity. This is an attitude which is prevalent across the whole of our club, whether it is a senior player passing on a few kind words to a junior or a member of our vice chair, secretary or treasurer getting the needed jobs done whilst carrying the same message.

The company I work for Kellaway Building Supplies have been exceptionally kind to the club through assistance and sponsorship over the years, as have many other great local companies who we

are very grateful to. Chalford Football Club are an outstanding community hub for anyone wishing to join us, I feel we are as good a team on the pitch as we are off it!

07805 330964

Office@adm-electrical.co.uk

Operating throughout Gloucestershire and the Cotswolds

ANDY MARYON: PLAYER-COACH

I joined Chalford thanks to some friends already at the club. About five years ago, I was not really enjoying my time at my previous club. After a few conversations with Ben and some of the guys, I made the decision to become a part of Chalford. Unfortunately, injuries held me back for the past two years. However, I have now returned to my position up front and am relishing being back on the field.

The last season can only be described as exceptional for the club. We achieved a league and cup double, and the style of play we exhibited was truly impressive. Naturally, the mood dipped after the promotion

challenge, but now that we are back in action, excitement is in the air.

My business, ADM Electrical, proudly serves as a main shirt sponsor, and I have thoroughly enjoyed supporting the club during the past couple of seasons.

Being a part of Chalford Football Club is a unique experience, and the camaraderie among everyone has undeniably contributed to our success on the pitch and a positive atmosphere throughout our club. There is no better place to be, where you will always find unity, friendly smiles, and someone to chat with.

Congratulations to everyone on an outstanding 2022/23 season, and best of luck for the 23/24 campaign!

Rye Town FC

Back in 2014 RYE UNITED

Football Club withdrew from the league after being an established football club since 1938 leaving the town of Rye without an adult football team, with many local lads playing at neighbouring clubs or in fact not playing football at all.

Both my wife, Charmaine Ridgers and I, felt we could make a positive change placing Rye back on the footballing map so started the process in late 2015 in what was needed to make this happen.

We secured a home venue which was in fact the home ground of the withdrawn Rye united at the Salts, the pitch we rented from the local council, the changing facilities and clubhouse that used to be run by Rye United had been taken over by Rye Cricket club, the cricket club welcomed the newly formed football side in using the facility providing it

came to no cost to the cricket club… so we had a home.

We had a pitch we had players wanting to play if we continued in what we wanted to achieve but the club was

without a name, we eventually came up and decided on RYE TOWN with the strongest though behind the name of the fact we wanted local players to play for town.

With so much more to do like getting equipment football kits insurances forming and of course being accepted into a league, the local support

`On the football pitch we aspire to be the hardest working team off the ball, the most supportive and the loudest team; off the pitch all we require is honesty and communication.`

SHANE RIDGERS TEAM MANAGER

Back in 2014 RYE UNITED Football Club withdrew from the league after being an established football club since 1938 leaving the town of Rye without an adult football team, with many local lads playing at neighbouring clubs or in fact not playing football at all.

was phenomenal with their generosity local companies Rye Hire , WS Wright, Rye Auction Galleries, Pikes Cleaning, Rye Garden Maintenance, Rock Channel Marine plus individuals like Christian Kipps and Horace Redford donated funds to set us up for our first season without these people where we are today couldn’t of happened.

We got accepted into the East Sussex Football League and with the names submitted of who would commit to play in the 2016/17 season we were placed in Division One, the second highest division of six at the time. The first season was to date the most successful in relation to trophies won as we won the league won the league cup and the charity cup.

2017/18 season we won a charity cup and finished 3rd in the premier league 2018/19 season we signed

some big named players all with a link to the town of Rye itself either through work , family members or schooling. Pre season we was the team that everyone was looking at the favourites to win the league, in addition the club after two seasons at the salts moved location to New Road the home of Rye Rugby Club ultimately the move stemmed by the high rise in cost in ground usage and the timescales of when the pitch could be used due to poor pitch conditions, but the season turned into a disaster, results didn’t go the way as expected, cracks started to appear within the club with friendships being tested with many players leaving towards the end of the season leaving the club on bare bones in relation to players.

With the club at its lowest drastic measures needed to take place the options basically being do we withdraw completely as a club or let the dust settle over the pre season and recruit locally once again, thankfully we decided on the later.

2019/20 We recruited some young players from Rye Bay Football Club as they had no adult pathway from the club which to this day is a pathway that is still used, we contacted the league and explained the

situation we were in stating our concerns in being in the top division with the age and quality of the remaining players asking to be dropped a few divisions so we can rebuild the Rye Town structure, we had the option to drop a division which we accepted and held our own only for the season to be ended short due to the covid lockdown.

2020/21, Still a covid season, but we participated in a complementary cup competition once the lockdown period was lifted for sport, we had a introduction of some young Hastings United u18 players to bolster the squad, a link formed by myself as I also coach at Hastings United within the academy . The idea of given young players an introduction into adult football surrounded by good people playing football for the right reasons.. again this is another link that to this day is upheld.

2021/22 A remarkable season saw Rye Town win the division one league for the second time in the clubs short history winning on the last game of the season, a cup trophy was also won this season but more importantly the feeling around the club was emphatic. Every single player wanting to be a part of the direction the club

is heading which includes success. Many local players all signed for the club with more wanting to sign for the 2022/23 season, the process started to form a reserve team.

2022/23 The introduction of Rye Town Reserves managed by Kiran Monk participating in division 3 with the first team playing in the premier division managed by myself assisted by Alex Sarkies. The reserves had a superb season finishing 3rd whilst the first team won the premier division by 7 points, conceding only 5 goals all season without conceding any at all at home within the league. The firsts also reached a final where tey narrowly lost 1-0 to Bexhill Town. The club had totally turned itself around and is in a much better place with positivity flowing through the whole club.

The club prides itself in keeping the cost to play football as low as possible, with match fees being as low as £5 per game and a signing on fee of £10 which locally is very hard to beat. We want football to be affordable and open to all within our community. We have a club code of conduct that supports and protects all players especially the young players. We have established ourselves as a family friendly football club to which each

game whatever side is playing the players families come to support, we do functions to fit in with family life to encourage the players families to become the rye town family.

On the football pitch however, we aspire to be the hardest working team off the ball the most supportive team and the loudest, off the pitch all we require is honesty and communication.

Even though we have two sides at Rye Town the players are all one club, again it’s something rare but we are proud that each player is happy to play for the first or second 11 to which they all give everything they can in whatever side that they play.

Moving into the new season I am taking a short step back from match day management, the club has good people around to allow me to enjoy the football from a short distance with Shaun Barkworth leading the 1st 11 and Kiran Monk leading the 2nd 11. Alex Sarkies will remain with the first 11 aiding Shaun. I will still be on hand to lend a hand coaching where possible.

Training facilities are a huge problem for us and other local clubs in the area, also match days when the rain sets in. We only have a 6 aside 3G to hire at the local school with only 2 full size 3Gs within 25 miles

BAR RESTAURANT AND B&B

GOOD TRADITIONAL PUB FOOD GOOD CHOICE OF STARTERS MAINS & DESSERTS PLUS BAR SNACKS DISHES HOMEMADE USING LOCAL PRODUCE.

SUNDAYS: A CHOICE OF TRADITIONAL SUNDAY ROASTS

ALWAYS A WARM FRIENDLY WELCOME

www.playdenoast.co.uk email: info@playdenoast.co.uk Tel: 01797 223502

Charmaine Ridgers the club founder and club secretary is the driving force behind the club, she works tirelessly behind the scenes asking for sponsors arranging games attending every game organising social events pitch marking the lot without her and her drive the club would not be here today, the club recognise this and now has the Charmaine award at the end of the season for someone that she feels deserves the clubs top recognition , this season and the first winner was Charlie Stevens.

of us in East Sussex, I cannot begin to tell you how much revenue and more importantly usage a full size 3G would get if installed at Rye.

We do however have a lovely pitch at Rye Rugby club which is a community based hub for Adult Youth, Walking, Women’s Football and other sports such as Rugby, Cycling and Running clubs. Although great efforts of work are undertaken by volunteers we are desperate for new changing rooms, new free standing goals, grounds maintenance and storage ( a gofund me page is being

setup ) any grants or suchlike is most definitely welcomed and needed.

Rye Town have managed to secure sponsorship for the forthcoming season with Rush Witt & Wilson continuing the home shirt sponsor CBE Electrical sponsoring the Away shirt and Parker Building Supplies sponsoring the Third kit.

We have player of the match sponsor boards which is held by the player after the game for each side Playden Oasts sponsor the first team, but we are seeking a sponsor for the second team.

All the sponsors current and past have been godsends to us I really hope they know how grateful we are.

This season we have asked the players to find their own sponsorship of £75 to get themselves a training top a tracksuit and a kit bag all with the sponsor logo printed upon.

(Anyone wishing to sponsor email ryetown@hotmail. com or call Charmaine on 07929047284 )

Rye Town are lucky to have close links with local clubs Rye Bay Football club a grassroots youth club where a progression into Rye Town is welcomed, keeping the ethos of the clubs values in keeping things local, also Hastings United who are a semi-

KIM RAYMOND, SUPPORTER & SPONSOR: PLAYDEN OATS INN.

The revitalization of Rye Town FC has become a beacon of hope and unity for the entire Rye community. The strides they have taken in such a short span, accompanied by their extraordinary success, is nothing short of inspiring. As a local business and sponsor of the club, I am thrilled to support any endeavor they embark upon.

My nephews, Liam and Brad Sayer, have proudly donned the Rye Town FC jersey for nearly four years now. As a member of this close-knit community, it brings me immense joy to contribute to initiatives they are part of. Serving as a club sponsor, I understand the significance of providing a platform where individuals of all ages can come together, fostering a sense of belonging and promoting good health. Rye Town FC, with its rich history and vibrant spirit, perfectly fills this vital role.

In recent times, it is heartening to witness the well-deserved recognition that Rye Town Football Club has garnered for their exceptional contributions to the world of sport. Their inclusion in the champions edition of Football Focus Magazine is a testament to their dedication and unwavering commitment. On behalf of everyone at Playden Oats Inn, I extend our warmest wishes for continued success throughout the remainder of the 2023/2024 campaign.

professional side, who we as a club give valuable game time to their young players, and introduction into adult football, with the view we only have them for a season or two before they go to County or Isthmian leagues to play.

So what does the future hold for Rye Town Football Club… I can see a potential third team within 2 seasons but we won’t be rushing into anything yet, we have no plans imminently to go into a county league for various reasons around costs and grounds but the most important thing is that we don’t want to take away the fact of why we started in the first place, that we want to provide a local club for local people to play football. The travelling will put players off and the aspect of a family-oriented club maybe lost and that definitely is not what we want.

RYE ROAD, PLAYDEN, RYE EAST SUSSES, TN31 7UL

Shoreham FC

My 7 year old son played for a local club of which was not the club for us, so a friend of my Ian Spottiswoode was on the committee at Shoreham FC and said the club has never had a youth team. Light bulb moment, I said “I tell you what why don’t I bring my son and his mates down to start an U9s team. The seeds were sown then. I eventually became youth chairman and built the youth section to 6 teams in a year. The current Chairman and owner Mathew Major (who has recently passed away) Took the role of Sussex FA Chairman and therefore could not run a football club at the same time. So, I purchased the club from him on June 1st, 2013. From then on, it was a 50 hour a week job along with my full time job; this is how non-league football works if you run a club at steps 5 and 6. The journey

has been a great experience meeting all kinds of footballing people, players and of course being more involved in the community which I would not change for the world.

Since I purchased the club, I have had some great and exceptional moments but also some bad ones. In 2020 Ian Spottiswoode passed away and then my best mate Ralph Prodger and co-owner from 2015 passed away in 2021, 3 months later his wife also passed away. It’s only the football fraternity and the community that got me through it. Now the club is thriving, and the new co-owner Malcolm Saunders is involved in helping the club move forward. Football is a great family, and I would not change it for the world.

As you know we were a record-breaking team last season, along the way the main one being the longest unbeaten team in the country from the Premier League down to Step 6. This was achieved by not only having a great group of players, but the main factor in my opinion, was comradeship and togetherness with the team, committee, volunteers and of cause the 12th man our supporters who have be absolutely fabulous!

The plan on the pitch is to consolidate this season and then look for promotion back to step 5. We are also

“Champions 2022/2023 Season…the longest unbeaten team in the country from the Premier League down to Step 6!”

STUART SLANEY, CHAIRMAN

in talks with the local council, the local FA for developing the ground for new clubhouse and 3G pitch. We have already spent 55k on new LED floodlights and 40k on refreshing stands, changing rooms and other areas. Our football programme starts for kids from 4 years old, via our free soccer school we offer to the community which is a great for those wanting to get into football. Our philosophy throughout the club is to ensure all boys and girls learn and play in a safe and focused environment and every child is treated the same no matter the level of their ability. Unlike many youth clubs our club has a pathway into senior football once they finish their U16s season. We have both male and female U18s then you go onto senior men’s and women’s football, so from the age of 4 you could stay at the club and fulfil your dream to senior football playing in step 6 and above and ultimately play in the FA Cup, which is every player’s dream. Currently we have 3 youth players that have come through the ranks and are now playing in the mens senior

team with another 3 breaking in from the U23s to the first team. We also have our former U16s girls’ team who are now our U18s many of them are dual signed for our women’s team. This is a great advert for the club proving that a footballing pathway can work.

Shoreham FC, nicknamed The Musselmen, was founded in 1892 and gained its first major honour in 1902, winning the Sussex Senior Cup, a feat that was repeated four years later. In 1920 Shoreham became founder members of the Sussex County League, only to resign seven years later after picking up just five points over the entire season and finishing bottom of the twelve club League. In 1932 however the club re-joined and ended the 1934/35 season as runners up to Horsham. After a difficult period during the 1940’s, Shoreham took the County League title for the first time in 1951/52 and retained it the following year. In 1960/61 Shoreham were relegated but made an immediate return as Division Two champions the very next season.

relegated once more in 1966/67 to Division Two, where they spent six seasons before finishing as runners up to Portfield in 1972/73. Unfortunately, they survived just one season before being relegated again. True to form, Shoreham bounced back, winning the Division Two title in 1976/77, and adding the Division One championship in 1977/78. Over the past twenty

the two top divisions of the County League, with frequent relegation and promotion seasons at Middle Road. The best season in recent years came in the mid-1990’s, when they twice finished in the top four of Division One and won the League Cup in 1996. Shoreham were promoted back to Division One as runners up in 2001/02 following relegation two seasons earlier.

However, a now familiar pattern followed as, after

Division Two to gain promotion

back to the SCFL Premier, and then straight through to Division One.

Last season, 2021/22, was much more successful for the club, finishing in 5th position and progressing to the divisional play-offs. A semi-final victory at Seaford Town was followed by a single goal defeat at Midhurst & Easebourne. Shortly after this final game, manager Mark Pulling left the club by mutual consent after three seasons in charge.

consolidate in 2005/06. That season saw Middle Road continue to be favoured as a neutral venue for cup ties, and The Musselmen were to collect some silverware of their own, defeating Whitehawk 2-1 in the final of the John O’Hara Challenge Cup.

Shoreham won the SCFL Premier League in 2016/17 and were promoted to the Bostik South League for the first time in their history, only to be relegated the same season

Michael Death was appointed first team manager for the 2022/23 season, and was assisted by Keiran Collins. Head Coach will be Paul Ettridge and the Sports Therapist is Matt Rogers. Micheal Deaths team won the league and was promoted to the SCFL Premier Division. Under 23’s manager is Malcolm Saunders, assisted by Ryan Harman. The Under 18’s will be managed by Mark Burt, with Sean Bond as his assistant.

VITA RISK INSURANCE:

GREAT NEWS FOR PLAYER`S & CLUB!

Running a Football Club, Academy or any Sports Club can be more than a full-time job and worrying about risks and disruptions can add unnecessary stress. Sport Club Insurance is designed to protect against a range of unique risks –and is built especially for your needs, allowing your cover to not only protect players and you’re building but your staff, customers and facility equipment all in one single policy.

Our specialist advisors offer bespoke cover, support and advice for a range of sports organisations and activities - including sports halls, courts and pitches, fitness suites and more.

Additionally, if you are an Amateur or Semi-Professional sportsperson, sustaining an injury or having an accident whilst playing sports could mean more than you think including being unable to

work, affecting your income and ultimately affecting any loved ones you support. On average Athletes & Sports Competitors suffer more than 2000 injuries per 10,000 individuals.

(Bureau of Labor Statistics)

One of the added bonuses is that once by taking a policy out through us, you can support your club at the same time!

To Find out more please see our advert on the Inside Front Cover of this edition of Football Focus Mag or call or email us directly on info@vitarisksolutions.co.uk

+44 (0)1273 980 289.

“As supporters, sponsors an Insurance providers to Shoreham FC we are delighted to be associated with the success of this great club!”

After being promoted and some of last season’s players moving and retiring, we are looking at using a lot of youth players that have come through the ranks, which is great. We have lost our first 2 league games by the odd goal, but the young players will only gain more experience and become better players over the coming months. The supporters know this and are all behind our managers ethos and things are still positive at the club. We still take away more support than many other clubs at our level, so that tells you a lot.

We have a had a couple of ex-pro’s play for the club such as Anthony Barness, who played for Chelsea, Charlton and Bolton as well as Charlie walker who played for us in 2010 and went on to play for teams such as

Luton, Aldershot, At Albans and Eastbourne Borough. A good youth player story is Luca Slaney who has played at the club for 12 years since he was 8 and is now 20 years old and plays for the men’s front side which means he is Shoreham’s longest serving player, which goes to show our youth pathway within the club works!

Last season was very special not for just winning the league and getting promoted to the SCFL Premier League, we broke all UK records from step 6 all the way to the English Premier League by being the last club in the UK to be beaten in the league. Expectation for season 2023-2024 is to consolidate and stay in the division, we now have one of the youngest teams in the league with the average age

of 19.

Shoreham Football club launched our women’s team in 2022 and straight from the off they won their league and the league cup which is a great advert for women’s football. This then allowed us to grow the women’s football section by adding an U18s girls team to help feed the women’s team.

We also launched our first ever walking football team for over 50s last year, which is great for the community and players that can’t play competitive football anymore and just want to keep fit and still get that footy fever.

We have been in the community for over 131 years and we plan to still be in the heart of the community for another 131 years. We have many partnerships with the local businesses of which without their support we could not be as successful as we have been. With over 600 members and growing we provide many free services for the community such as our Free Saturday Soccer School

called the “Mini Mussels” for 4- to 6-year-olds, free match day entry for service men and women and NHS nurses.

As a community club we try to do our bit for local charities and raise as much funds as we can. We have raised over £8000 in the last 7 years for lots of local causes. Our aim is the make it £10000 over the next 3 years.

Shoreham Football Club is a family orientated club. Our

players range from 4 years all the way up to 73 years young. Many of the volunteers at the club have family also helping out at the club, which is very rare. Our groundsman is also the U16s manager whos son plays for and he is also one of the match day ball boys. Owners Stuart and Malcom have family volunteering at the club and vice president Keith Hewitts son is the U8s manager with his son playing

in that team. There are many more family member like this at the club, so as you can see, we are a truly family based club.

Malcolm and I would like to say thank you to all the volunteers at the club from youth coaches to the ladies that work in the café on match days. Without these people the club simply would not be able to run.

If it wasn’t for the local businesses partnering with us and sponsoring we could not survive, this will be the same for most clubs at our level. One thing we do have with a lot of our sponsors is most of them come to games and the supporters and players use their services as we are a very tight nit community which is great for all parties involved.

We are a specialist provider of compliance consultancy services to FCA regulated firms. Our clients range from global banks to small hedge fund managers in the UK and Europe.

Our mission at City is to provide cost effective compliance solutions. This enables our clients to concentrate on their mainstream activities of satisfying their clients’ needs, growing their business and adding shareholder value in the knowledge that their business activities are fully complying with FCA rules and regulations.