Issue 47 / £6.95 WWW.FOOTBALLFOCUS.BIZWITHAM TOWN Wimborne TownThe latest from The Founder members ofVillage Glass Stadium the South Hampshire and Dorset Football AssociationPORT VALE Gloucester CityCarrying out vital work in looking forwards to a positivethe local community future and returning home Accrington Stanley Looking to progress after avoiding relegationCAMBRIDGE UNITEDCelebrating their return to the Football League
2 Issue 47
CONTENTSPUBLISHED BY PROCESS PUBLISHING LLP FOOTBALLFOCUSSUITE 1, SAVILLE EXTCHANGE, HOWARDSTREET, NORTH SHIELDS, NORTH 4 CAMBRIDGE UNITED 36 CLACHNACUDDINTYNESIDE, NE30 1SE 7 SHAWBURY UNITED 38 BOTTESFORD TOWN 8 ACCRINGTON STANLEY 39 PORT VALEWWW.FOOTBALLFOCUS.BIZ 11 SOUTHWICK 42 WIMBORNE TOWN 12 CRAMLINGTON JUNIORS 45 CB HOUNSLOW UNITED COMMERCIAL 14 NORTH SHIELDS ATHLETIC 46 HESKETH BANK 17 HENGROVE ATHLETIC 47 NEWHAVEN COMPANY MANAGER 19 CHINNOR 48 WITHAM TOWN 22 WESTLAND SPORTS 51RADCLIFFE BOROUGH ANGELA THORNTON 24 WALKER CENTRAL 55 GLOUCESTER CITY T: 0191 447 2376 26 AFC KEMPSTON 58 HANWORTH VILLA E: [email protected] 27 ALTON UNITED 60 STORRINGTON 30 HARROWBY UNITED 62 CARNOUSTIE PANMURE MEDIA DIRECTORS 31 LONG MELFORD 63 PENWORTHAM TOWN 32 BRIDON ROPES 64 BRORA RANGERS Jordan Beresford 34 LYDNEY TOWN T: 0191 340 5587 E: [email protected] Gary Hoosan T: 0191 447 6767 E: [email protected] Ian Bogie T: 0191 447 4135 E: [email protected] Dave Locker T: 0191 340 0622 E: [email protected] EDITORIAL EDITOR IN CHIEF Jamie Seymour T:0191 447 2512 E; [email protected] DESIGNER Catherine Goldsmith T:0191 447 3718 E:[email protected] US ONLINETWITTER.COM/MAGFOOTBALL©PROCESS PUBLISHING ALL RIGHTSRESERVEDNo part of this publication may bereproduced or transmitted in any format byany means, or stored in a retrieval systemwithout prior written premission, exceptas permitted under the copyright designsand permissions act 1998. Applications forpermission for use of copyright materialshall be made to the publishers. 48 HESKETH BANK www.footballfocus.biz 3
CAMBRIDGE UNITEDCAMBRIDGE UNITEDCambridge United FC has se- Having a close relationship This sent them into the play-offscured their return to the Foot- between fans and their players is where they first took on Halifaxball League after a 9 year exile crucial for any club and with their in the semi-final over two legs. Itwas brought to an end when recent success this is something was a closely fought encounter butthey managed to defeat Gates- that Cambridge appears to have Cambridge managed to come outhead 2-1 in the play-off final at covered. In the current financial on top with a 2-1 aggregate victoryWembley. This was a fantastic climate it is vital for a side to to set up a trip to Wembley and aachievement for the club and receive the backing of the local clash with Gateshead.was rightly celebrated by their community and their strength inplayers and supporters alike. this area should enable them to The two sides had only been sepa- look forwards to a bright future. rated by 3 points through the sea-The fans were given their chance son so it was always going to be ato show their delight with the During the regular season, hard fought encounter. Goals fromteam when an open-top bus Cambridge put together a strong Liam Hughes and Ryan Donaldsonparade took place. The players campaign, finishing in 2nd place saw the U’s take control howeverwere driven through the city with behind runaway leaders Luton as the 13,000 Cambridge support-supporters turning out to cheer Town. They had a record of ers roared their team on.their heroes before returning to having won 23, drawn 13 and lostthe Abbey Stadium. 10 of their 46 matches which saw Gateshead did not give up and them end up with 82 points. reduced the deficit with 10 minutes left to play thanks to a goal from4 Issue 47
CAMBRIDGE UNITEDtheir striker Jack Lester. Cambridgealso lost their skipper Ian Milleras tension set in at Wembley butthe team showed their characterto hang on and secure a well-de-served promotion.Cambridge’s success this seasonwas not limited solely to the Leaguehowever as they also visited Wem-bley for the final of the FA Trophy.The game itself was an illustrationof some of the brilliant football thatthey have been playing as theythumped Gosport borough by 4goals to nil.Ryan Donaldson scored twice inthe fixture meaning that his goal inthe play-off took his tally at Wemb-ley for the season to 3. Undoubted-ly, the current group of players willbe determined to ensure that theyare able to claim more silverware inthe coming years.The club is committed to continuingto move forwards and have addednew signings Johnny Hunt, ChrisDunn, Robbie Simpson and LukeChadwick to their squad. www.footballfocus.biz 5
CAMBRIDGE UNITED Speaking to United Player about the U's new additions, Director of Football Jez George, said, “The new lads have fitted in brilliantly. I've watched training a couple of times and spoke to the staff and they've all been very happy with where we are. The players have come back in great shape. The memories of what happened at the end of the season act as a spur, as does the new level - the challenge of the football league.\" 2013-14 was undoubtedly a season to remember for everyone associat- ed with Cambridge United and they will no doubt be hunting more suc- cess next season. They appear to have everything in place to do just that and Football Focus Magazine would like to take this opportunity to congratulate them on their return to the Football League.6 Issue 47
SHAWBURY UNITEDSHAWBURY UNITEDShawbury United FC plays their home and lost just 5 of their 42 matches. This sawgames at the Butler Sports Centre in them finish close to the top of the table withShropshire and they currently compete 97 points.in the West Midlands Regional LeaguePremier Division. So long as they are able to retain their current group of players they will be in with a goodThey are led by Chairman Chris Kirkup chance of another successful season nextwho is supported by Treasurer Tracie time around. If they can add one or two qualityHowells and the club is looking to progress players they may be able to push on andunder their guidance. claim a league title.They have a history of which they have One of the highlights of the team’s play wasevery right to be proud and can be the superb attacking brand of football thatconsidered one of the most successful they produced. This was reflected by the factclubs in Shropshire in recent times. They that they managed to score an incredible 139have managed to win an impressive 20 goals in their 42 matches at a rate of moretrophies since first being established, than 3 per match.notably winning the Shropshire FAChallenge Cup in the 2002/03 season. This certainly ensured that anybody attending their fixtures was well entertained and shouldOne of their most successful years up to encourage more of their local communitynow came in 2007/08 when they managed to get behind the club. It can also help toto finish as runners up in their league and attract players to join the team as they enjoyalso reached the last 32 of the FA Vase. a growing reputation for playing football theThe current group of players will be keen right way.to add to this impressive record in thecoming years and are confident that they Shawbury United has enjoyed fantastichave the talent to do so. success in recent times and this is thanks to the hard work that their Committee putsThey have every right to be confident into the club. Hopefully they will be able togiven the superb season that they have continue in the same manner for many yearsjust put together as they finished with a to come.league record of having won 30, drawn 7 www.footballfocus.biz 7
ACCRINGTON STANLEYACCRINGTONSTANLEYAccrington Stanley manage Accrington after being be relegated, and even more so aftersuccessfully retained their a player at the club and needed not getting a win in the opening 12league status last season and is somebody experienced at working games, despite deserving several onnow looking ahead to the 2014- with First Team players. our performances. But we managed15 campaign. Football Focus to finish the season off very strongly,Magazine caught up with the It is very satisfying helping to put leaving a very good atmosphereclub’s Assistant Manager Paul a team together and working daily around the place and hopes forStephenson to find out more. on individual/units of the team and an improved league position nextInvolvement seeing them improve. The biggest season. satisfaction is obviously gettingHe told us, “I've been at the club three points on a match day.” We’re expected to be in the bottomsince November 2012. I was out 2 or 3 every year given the club'sof work after being First Team Last Season financial problems, so to finishCoach at Huddersfield Town and 15th was an outstanding effort byI was recommended to Leam “We have had a remarkable end everybody involved from Cleaner toRichardson by Derek Fazackerly. to the season since October 2013. Chairman.”Leam was given the chance to We were everybody's favourites to8 Issue 47
CLUBwww.footballfocus.biz 9
ACCRINGTON STANLEY Community “The First Team Players do go into the local schools on a regular basis and we are striving to do more like any small club and it’s important as we both need to support each other. The importance of youth development can never be taken for granted. A lot can depend on the strength of character of the young players themselves. We have gradually integrated the U18's who we earmarked as potential professionals, by bringing them up to train with the First Team on a regular basis. This hopefully gives them a sense of the standard required and the type of culture they will have to contend with.” Challenges/Ambitions “Our immediate challenge is to remain as a Football League Club. We are trying to introduce new initiatives to encourage more fans through the gate on match days. We are also in the process of trying to become a Category 3 status Academy which would also help the club with funding, recruitment and local projects to improve the ground and training ground. Hopefully this will attract new investment to the club, which is the Board's objective for the longer term.”10 Issue 47
SOUTHWICKSOUTHWICKFirst established in 1882, Southwick FC is based on 01273 & 01903Old Barn Way and their first team currently com-petes in the Sussex County League Division 3. The 59 59 59club is led by Chairman Alan Petken whilst JohnKilgarriff manages the team and they will be looking SaloonS - EStatESto progress under their guidance. Muti-purpoSEIt would be fair to say that the team did not perhaps whEElchair accESSiblEenjoy the campaign they would have liked last timearound as they put together a record of having won 6, we cater for alldrawn 2 and lost 12 of their matches. This saw themfinish near the bottom of the table with 20 points on the Gatwick noboard. ExtraS froM £42The season was not without positives however and theywill be looking to use these to improve next time out. hEathrowSo long as they are able to retain their current groupof players and perhaps make one or two quality addi- froM £88tions they should be in with a good chance of achievingbetter results. 24 hour SErvicEA major reason for the club to be optimistic as they look 59 59 59to the future is the strong youth teams that they have inplace. With the first team struggling it should provide a www.taxilink595959.comgreat opportunity for some of these players to make abreakthrough. www.footballfocus.bizIt is important for any club to be able to produce theirown talent, particularly in the current financial climate.Coaching staff overseeing their youth teams areconfident that they have a number of players currentlyinvolved with the potential to go on and represent thefirst team.In order to help these players to make the sometimesdifficult transition into senior level football Southwickalso has a reserve team running. This allows them togive their youngsters experience of adult level footballeven if they are not yet considered ready for first teamaction.Another benefit of having more than one side is that itallows the first XI to benefit from far greater strength indepth. If they are ever left short on numbers throughinjury or suspension then they have the option to callplayers up with a limited amount of disruption.Although Southwick FC did not perhaps enjoy theseason that they would have liked, this should not takeaway from the good work that the club has been doing.Hopefully they will be able to continue in the same man-ner for many years to come and Football Focus Maga-zine wishes them the best of luck. 11
CRAMLINGTON JUNIORSCRAMLINGTONJUNIORSCramlington Juniors FC is a club that has the committee are extremely proactive and aredone a fantastic job of producing quality always looking for ways to improve the club.”young footballers over a number of years.Football Focus Magazine caught up with club This Seasonrepresentative Adrian Farrar to find out whathas been behind their success. “At mini soccer we are hugely successful, with outstanding sides at U8, 9 and 10, which is dueInvolvement mainly to Jason Hodgson who oversee the minis. On a weekend he can be found coaching the kidsHe started by telling us about his involvement, at Astley High School from 9 in the morning till 6saying, “I started just over 25 years ago at the at night so it is no wonder we are doing well instart of the 1988-89 season and although I had this area.a couple of seasons away with senior football Ihave been there ever since. At the 11 a side we are generally one of the top 3 sides in the county. Staying at the top in thisWhile running coaching courses through form has become very tricky due to the fact thatNorthumberland football association a fellow a lot of our top end are in either Newcastle orcoach called George Beeby asked if I would Sunderland’s academies.”be interested in running a team at Cramlingtonjuniors. To be honest having spent all my timerunning senior teams such as West Allotment andSeaton Terrace I had absolutely no idea what Iwas getting into or how long would last.”The Role“The most challenging thing about my role isfinding and producing top-notch junior players.Getting a young lad at 5 years and seeing himdevelop into a player that might play the gameprofessionally is reward in itself, however it isequally rewarding to see players that played atthe juniors playing in all of the local leagues. I amalways disappointed when I see young playersgive up the game at 17 or 18. Nothing beatsbeing involved, I cannot imagine life withoutfootball.”Community“I would ocnsider us to be a community club,we try to work with local schools in the areato encourage the kids to come to us and havevery strong relationships with Cramlington HighSchool and Astley High School who have alwayssupported our training programmes.We have some excellent coaches at theclub, some of whom are qualified to UEFA Bstandard. On top of that the lads that serve on12 Issue 47
CRAMLINGTON JUNIORSProgression“Any player that has come through theCramlington Juniors system shouldable to adapt to playing senior footballwithout too much of a problem. Heshould leave us with a good degree ofability but most importantly he shouldhave very good discipline which he willneed if he is to play senior football at agood level.Two of our U8s, Aiden Pogsonand Sam Watts have just receivedacademy places at Newcastle United.At present we have over 60 kids eitherin development or Academies from ourclub. Furthermore we have currently 3players on scholarships Kyle Cameronand Macaulay Gillespie at NewcastleUnited and Nick Cassidy at Queen ofthe South. Added to this we also havea few players playing professionallynamely Stephen Taylor at Newcastle,Jack Colback at Sunderland, BenPringle at Rotherham and Liam Nobleat Carlisle.”Challenges/Ambitions“Producing good players is alwaysthe challenge, getting kids to come toour place is sometimes difficult. Somekids don’t think they are at a goodenough standard to play for CJFCand as a consequence we don’t get totake a look at them to make our ownjudgement.This has happend frequently whencoaches have to convince playersthey are and to come along and seefor themselves, but once we get themthere the opportunities they have couldpossibly give them a career playingfootball.Our ambitions are to keep producingplayers of the highest quality, toimprove the standard of the coaching,which is already the best but we wantto get better and to provide a facilitywhere kids can come and expressthemselves on pitches that allow themto show off there qualities.” www.footballfocus.biz 13
NORTH SHIELDSNORTH SHIELDSATHLETIC North Shields Athletic FC has just Hindle Campbell have sponsored North enjoyed a superb campaign on the field Shields Athletic from U16 to U17 and in of play and has also recently completed the first season the team won the League a fantastic new 3G facility to play on. Challenge Trophy and last season we ran Football Focus Magazine caught up with out league champions. Sponsorship funds the club’s Chairman John Farrage to find helped them team continue to train on 3g out more about the good work that they surfaces during bad weather and fund have been doing. the cost of that, something which will no longer be an issue with the clubs new 4G Involvement facilities. Funds have also helped with kit and training equipment and the firm are He told us, “I joined the club in1998 to set very proud to be associated with grass- up an U10's side as at the time there was roots football in the area. only an U11 and U12's side in the club. As the club grew I became the Chairman in 2002 but continued to run a team through to U19's before dropping down to U17's. The most challenging aspect was taking the club to firstly a FA Charter Standard Club then to a Development Club and in 2008 becoming only the 6th club in Northumberland to become a Community Club.” Atmosphere “Having just finished a £400k development of our new 3G pitch with floodlighting in conjunction with John Spence Community High School the club is very upbeat about the future. Just this weekend we've hosted 2 presentation evenings attended by 1200 people. Trials for the coming season for 7yr olds to 18 year olds started from Sunday and have been exceptionally well attended.” Last Season “The season ended on a high with several teams winning leagues and cups. Our U15 girls team did the treble only losing one game all season and teams on their travels winning tournaments at Blackpool, Filey and Skegness. At senior level we were Northern Alliance Division 1 Champions having won Division 2 the previous season. The Men's Senior Reserve team won the Tyneside Amateur League Cup.14 Issue 47
CLUBF.A Registered Sports Agentwww.footballfocus.biz 15
NORTH Community SHIELDS “Community Club status wasThe club is run solely by a team of attained in 2008 and we became thevolunteers. With our hard work and first Deaf Friendly football club inthe support and energy of all the Northumberland. We were awardedCommittee, managers, coaches and the Community Club of the Year in 2011cashiers the club has continued to go and are widely regarded as the largestfrom strength to strength. This coupled club in the North East of England withwith our superb pitches and now our 40 teams.”new 3G has contributed to our success.” Challenges/RewardsYouth “The biggest challenge for us is to“Youth football is of paramount finance a club house which is imperativeimportance to the club. We start with to the retention of all the teams. OverSoccer Skills from 4 years old which can the coming years we are looking to seekattract up to 150 children on a Saturday finance and to build our own club housemorning. A lot of these children progress and to continue to work closely withinthrough the age groups to senior level.” the community.”Progression“With teams right up to U18 and a Men'sReserve team this provides a naturaltransition. We also have an outlet to anopen age Sunday morning team. Wefind a lot of our players stay with theclub from soccer skills right through tosenior level.A host of youngsters are on contractsfor Newcastle and SunderlandAcademies; the latest being anU14 being given a 2 year contractat Newcastle and 2 U8s signing forNewcastle and Sunderland. We alsohave ex-players on scholarships inAmerica. With only being in existencefor 18 years the club is proud of its linkswith both Newcastle and SunderlandAcademies.”16 Issue 47
HENGROVE ATHLETICHENGROVE ATHLETICHengrove Athletic FC is based season bottom of the league with the Year Award whilst Scott Lewison Norton Lane in Bristol and 28 points. and Sam Williams shared thetheir first team competed in the The club will be keen to move on supporters award.Toolstation Western League from this campaign as soon asPremier Division in 2013-14. possible and have already turned There promises to beThey are led by Chairman their attention towards the 2014- development ahead of nextNigel Gray who is supported 15 effort. If they are able to add season with it being announcedby Secretary Graham Whitaker some new personnel and retain that Jamie Hillman will return asand the club is looking to the majority of their core group 1st Team Manager. He will beprogress under their guidance. they should be able to claim supported by Rich Jenkins and some better results. the club took the time to wishIt would be fair to say that the them the best of luck on theirteam did not perhaps enjoy the There were some positives to official website.campaign that they would have come out of last season andliked last time around as they the team recently got together A major reason for the club tomanaged to put together a record to celebrate these at their be optimistic as they look to theof having won 8, drawn 4 and presentation evening. Chaz Jest future is the strong youth teamlost 28. This saw them finish the picked up the Players Player of that they have up and running. This part of their establishment looks to provide young players from the local area with an opportunity to play the game in a safe and enjoyable environment. It is important for any club to be able to produce their own talent if they are to be successful, particularly in the current financial climate. Now would seem like an ideal time to blood some youngsters as they look to recover from their disappointing performances this term. In order to help young players successfully make the transition into the senior game Hengrove Athletic also have a reserve team in place. This allows them to give people experience of adult level football even if they are not yet considered ready for first team action and can be an important step in the development process. Another advantage of having more than one team is that it allows the first XI to benefit from www.footballfocus.biz 17
HENGROVE ATHLETIC far greater strength in depth. If they are ever left short on numbers through injury or suspension they have the option of calling players up with a limited amount of disruption. Although Hengrove Athletic has just endured a frustrating campaign this should not take away from the good work that they have been doing in recent times. If their Committee continues in the same manner the club should be able to look forwards to a bright and successful future. Football Focus Magazine wishes them the best of luck.18 Issue 47
CHINNORCHINNORChinnor FC is that is making life it felt right to link up with my Last year we played in the FAsome significant progress at local football club. Having played Cup for the first time in Chinnor'sthe moment and it appears for several of the clubs youths history and that will be a day toto be an exciting time to be sides I already knew several remember although the resultinvolved with the club. Football people involved in the senior went against us, the day outFocus Magazine caught up section which made getting for the players, supporters andwith their Assistant Manager involved a bit easier.” club officials will be one for theCraig Williams to find out grandchildren.”more. Atmosphere This SeasonInvolvement “The vibe around Chinnor Football Club at the moment is “Playing in the Uhlsport HellenicHe told us, “I have been with very positive. Within the next League Division 1 East has beenChinnor Football Club for over few months following hard work a bit up and down for us. Having5 years now and enjoyed and and determination from certain finished in the clubs highestgrown into my role at the football people it looks like a brand new ever league position of 5th lastclub year on year. I was first club house will be built which is season, we were looking to breakattracted to the club when I was fantastic for us. in to the top 3 or 4.19 and completing my UEFA B We currently run 4 senior teamsLicense coaching badge and on a Saturday and the club really The manager Dave Ridgleyhaving lived in the village all my is moving in the right direction. and Assistant Lewis Craker and www.footballfocus.biz 19
CHINNOR I worked tirelessly to improve the squad for this season with a few new additions but we finished the season in 8th place with stats of Played 26, Won 10, Drawn 5, Lost 11. The season wasn’t helped by the terrible weather we had which halted our impressive 4 game run of scoring 15 and conceding 0. Next season we will be looking to better our 8th position finish this season and be looking for a top 4 finish.” Youth “Our Youth side is fantastic. Under the leadership of Chairman Terry Devine we have several teams from U6's right through to U18's. The youth section also runs a very successful 6-a-side tournament which is always very popular. We also have girls and ladies teams which form part of the youth club. We hope that in years to come more players come through the youth section and play for the senior sides. The club is a very friendly club and will do its upmost to provide football for all.” Community “The club have achieved again for this season, the highest accredited award of 'Charter Standard Community Club' from the Football Association. Being 1 of only 6 other clubs in the county of Oxfordshire, 2 of those being League 2 outfit Oxford United and conference north side Oxford City. This is a massive credit to Chinnor Football Club and shows just how positive and dedicated all the volunteers are who sit on the committees and team managers that ensure that football is being providing for all.” Challenges/Ambitions “Every game we play in could be classed as a big challenge. We are always looking to do better, and I think promotion into the next league will come as our biggest challenge. We have some good teams currently in our league and it will be a massive achievement should we get out of it.20 Issue 47
CHINNOROur main aim is to win the FA Cup!(Joke) to play at the highest levelwe can. Once again this year wehave entered the FA Cup & FA Vasecompetitions and we are yet as a club towin in any of these competitions so that’sone thing I hope to see us do within thenext 5 years if not next season, and justto keep providing football for all.The youth set up, like I said, is fantasticand the senior section continues togrow on and off the pitch. On behalfof everyone at Chinnor Football Club,I would like to thank you for taking thetime to read this interview.” www.footballfocus.biz 21
WESTLAND SPORTSWESTLAND SPORTSWestland Sports FC suffered a football let alone senior football, so together, so the younger players getsetback not long ago when they the club is very proud of them.” to work alongside the more maturewere forced to step down a league lads, so that they not only get todue to circumstances out of their Success know them well, but are gettingcontrol. They have wasted no used to the more physical side oftime rebuilding however and have “I think winning the league was the game without getting kicked tojust enjoyed a superb campaign. really a dream, but after we got a pieces. They also all get to know meFootball Focus Magazine caught very new young squad together, you and my assistants very well.”up with the club’s First Team could tell we had the potential toManager Stuart Smith to find out achieve something special this year. Progressionmore about the good work that To start with a defeat first game ofthe club has been doing. the season, then to respond and not “Craig Allcock went on to become lose another game says a lot about Yeovil Town’s captain, and cameAtmosphere the team and our attitude every through our youth system. All of week.” the team from two years ago now“The mood here is very positive as play in the Toolstation Premieryou can imagine. We’ve had to re- Youth league. We’ve had players go ontobuild the team and trying to qualify Weymouth and Dorchester as well.”for promotion back up to where we “We had a very strong U18 sidehad come from, whilst pushing to get this year, and will continue to do so Communityour ground up to shape. We’ve won next. The aim in the future is to runa senior league with a lot of players 2 more youth sides, like we used “We are most definitely a communitythat hadn’t played regular men’s to at U16’s and U17’s. We all train club, my father and uncle played22 Issue 47
and managed, my twin is assistant WESTLANDmanager, my cousin has been involved SPORTSfor years, and the chairman, works forWestlands and has been at the club for with a young squad, without bringingyears. We still get support from ex- ringers in for important games, playingplayers going back many generations.” attractive football.”Challenges/Rewards Thank you“It’s all about money and players, so “I would also like to take the opportunityfirstly obtaining financial help from local to give a special thanks to:businesses is key as we don’t have alot of means to make money on match 1. Derek Smith and Ramp Industries,days, so increasing this support is vital, our main sponsor over the last twoand secondly establishing ourselves yearsback in the Dorset Premier league sothat keeping and attracting new players 2. Mark Farthing and Lawrencebecomes a lot easier. We used to be Scaffolding who sponsored the afterthe second club to Yeovil, this times match food despite his son playing for ahas gone but we are heading in the local rival!right direction. 3. Sam Gibbs at GS Laundry ServicesThe current management team who has washed our kits for free overremains, this will continue. As I said the past two seasons.”before, getting two more youth sideswill help keep this ideal alive. We won www.footballfocus.biz 23
WALKER CENRTRALWALKER CENTRAL Walker Central FC is a club that away from drugs, and you can end up plays a vital role in their local achieving something in your life. David community, providing a large Beharall is a great example of that. number of people from the local area with an opportunity to play the Thanks to DUCO, Pearsons game with teams running from junior Engineering and Shephards we have senior level that currently competes managed to raise £168,000 to build in the Northern Alliance League. the place and now we are looking to develop the clubhouse again and build One of the key reasons the club has an indoor gynamsium, so the fund- been so successful over the years raising never stops.” is the superb work that club stalwart Brian Clark has done. He’s been a Speaking of Lee Clark Brian said, “I great ambassador for the community of had seen this young seven-year-old Walker and has a reputation for being boy playing and I just knew he had able to spot talent with the potential to something about him. So three days go a long way in the game. after our daughter Lindsay was born, I told Eileen we were going out to watch Speaking in the Daily Mails Footballers’ a game. Football Column Brian said, “I am as proud of what we have built over 25 I told her to make sure Lindsay was years at Walker Central Football Club well wrapped up and we headed out. as I am of the 20 boys I have seen and recommended to Newcastle United who have made the first team. And they’ve played down here in that time – Gazza, Shola, Sammy, Robbie Elliott, Steve Watson – and now we have a 3G pitch, a grass pitch and a club house. It keeps kids off the streets and out of trouble in a very tough area. If I could open the place all hours, I would. There’s photos and signed shirts on the wall, but the two I always show the kids are David Beharall and a young lad called Wesley Richardson. David did play for Newcastle’s first team but didn’t quite have enough to sustain a run in the side and become a regular before he had to be sold. But he was a clever lad, invested his money and runs a good business. He’s a millionaire now. Young Wesley had a great chance and terrific ability but he went the wrong way and made the wrong choices, didn’t make it. You wouldn’t recognise the kid now. I tell the young lads and lasses, even if you aren’t going to make it as a footballer, you need a good education, you need to stay out of trouble and24 Issue 47
WALKER CENRTRALBut it was worth it. He was only sevenand he was playing against boys aged10 and 11 and bossing them about. Hejust wanted the ball all the time, was agreat little footballer, but you could seehe had a real determination about him.He had this clean black and white strip– the rest of the lads were slightly grey– and his mam had stitched 'Clarky’ inyellow letters on to the back. BeforeI took him to Wallsend Boys Club, Iasked a teacher if I could have a wordwith him. I couldn’t believe he wasso young but I went over to introducemyself. 'I know your name, it’s LeeClark.’ And he says – remember he’sseven - 'Who are you? What do youwant?’ He was cheeky then and he’sthe same now.I’ve had a few favourites over the years.Lee Clark is definitely one of them. Wedecided to form Walker Central FootballClub when Lee was still comingthrough the Youth Training Scheme atNewcastle. We haven't looked back.” www.footballfocus.biz 25
AFC KEMPSTONAFC KEMPSTONBased on Hillgrounds Road in Another benefit of having so manyBedfordshire, AFC Kempston’s sides is that it allows the first XI to‘Rovers’ team currently competes in benefit from far greater strength inthe Premier Division of the Chroma depth. If they are ever left short onSport and Trophies United Counties numbers through injury or suspensionLeague. They are led by Chairman they have the option of calling playersAndrew Kirkby who is supported by up with a limited amount of disruption.the Colts Chairman Ian Mclaren andthe club is looking to progress under AFC Kempston is clearly a club whichtheir guidance. has a great set-up off the field and this is helping them to play a vital role inAFC Kempston Rovers had a solid their local community. Hopefully theycampaign last time out, managing to will be able to keep up the good workput together a record of having won that they have been doing for many11, drawn 11 and lost 14 of their 36 years to come and Football Focusmatches. This saw them finish the Magazine would like to wish them theseason in a safe mid-table position with best of luck.44 points on the board.They will be hoping to use this form asa base upon which to build as they lookahead towards the 2014-15 season.So long as they are able to retain theircurrent group of players and perhapsmake one or two quality additions theyshould be in with a good chance ofclaiming a higher league finish.One of the highlights of the Kempstonset-up is the superb youth section thatthey have in place. This part of the clublooks to provide young players fromthe local area with an opportunity toplay the game in a safe and enjoyableenvironment.It is important for any club to be able toproduce their own talent if they want tobe successful, particularly in the currentfinancial climate.Coaching staff overseeing the juniorteams are confident that they have anumber of players with the potential togo on and represent the first team.In order to help these players make thesometimes difficult transition into thesenior game they have a number ofsides running. This allows them to handout experience of senior level footballeven if they are not yet consideredready for action with their first team.26 Issue 47
ALTON UNITEDALTON UNITEDAlton United FC was first remains the main factor in the performance perspective, ourestablished in 1978 following growth or decline of a club.” amalgamation with the seniora split from Alton Ground club in Alton will complete theand has made a considerable Progress player development pyramid,amount of progress since giving a better standard men'sthen. Football Focus Magazine “The turnaround of the club since team for my U15/16/17 boyscaught up with the club’s we took over from the previous to aim for. Having an existingChairman Ben Norfolk to find committee two years ago has Ladies team that are doing wellout more about the good work been significant. We are now is already a great target for mythat they have been doing. financially sound, but more evolving girl's structure.” importantly that family feeling ofInvolvement mutual help and support at the Youth club is slowly returning - we haveHe told us, “My daughter wanted already seen the first fruits of this “Youth development is pivotal toto start playing at 6 years old, so I in attracting new players, starting the club. Teams that start with ustook her along to an Alton United new squads and of course the at under 4-6 are teams that staytraining session, but the coach volunteer coaches that we need and grow together right throughdisappeared after a few months, to thrive. the age groups. Starting a newso along with another Dad, we team at U4-6 from scratch with aran a team. That early lesson of With that sound base in parent coach is hard - we realisehow important the volunteer is position, we can hone teams the importance of laying thesein grass roots sports has stayed for performance (but not in the club foundations, which is whywith me and in my opinion, younger age groups). From a we solved the issue by bringing in www.footballfocus.biz 27
CLUB ALTON UNITED28 Issue 47
an outside sports company to train our ALTON UNITEDyoungest members, cm-sports.co.uk.Their brief is simple - look after the AmbitionsU4-6 age group and provide a teamand a parent coach at U7 level every “Our amalgamation depends onseason.” achieving planning permission at Alton Town's current site. Should this beCommunity granted, the level of investment through developer's contributions should total“We are well backed by the local around £1m. If this all happens, it will becommunity, particularly since we the end of a very long road of hard workinstigated our collaboration with Alton by volunteers from both clubs (it hasTown - the senior club in the town. been assumed on many occasions thatTogether we are stronger and more I work part-time for the club)! Then it willvisible to the community we support. be straight into leading the club with aWe provide a valuable service and completely different outfit, extra teams,through the work of my committee, our more exposure but great potential for thereputation is making our community future.”relationship grow positively.”Facilities“We have a good clubhouse that isaround 15 years old that had verylittle use - we are trying to encouragethe community to use it to help thecommunity relationship and thesecondary income. The Main Stand,Terrace and Changing Rooms(inherited from various incarnations offootball club over the past 60 years!)are old - the decision to amalgamatewith Alton Town was based heavilyon the agreement with developers torenew these facilities along with a 3gAstroturf pitch to allow all teams to playwithin our grounds.”Issue 47 www.footballfocus.biz 29
HARROWBY UNITEDHARROWBY UNITED First established in 1949, South Parade, GRANTHAM. NG31 6DD. Tel: 01476 574 444 Harrowby United FC plays their home games at the behind the team in the future. are confident that they have Environcon Stadium on Another benefit of playing with a number of players currently Dickens Road in Lincolnshire such a daring style is that the involved with the potential to and their first team currently players are sure to enjoy it and go on and represent the first competes in the Chroma this should make it easier to team. Sport and Trophies United retain and attract the quality Counties League Division needed to be successful. There is much to admire about 1. They are led by Chairman the set-up that Harrowby Ian Wetherstone who is To complement their senior United currently has in place supported by Secretary Mick side Harrowby United are also and this has been reflected by Atter. working hard to improve their the positive results they have youth section. This part of the been achieving on the pitch in Their first team put together club looks to provide young recent times. Hopefully they a strong record last season players from the local area will be able to continue the as they managed to win 28, with an opportunity to play the good work that they have been draw 8 and lose 6 of their 42 game in a safe and enjoyable doing for many years to come. matches. This saw them finish environment. in 3rd place in the table with an impressive 92 points on the It will be a major boost for the board. senior side if they are able to rely upon young players Their focus will now have coming through to strengthen turned towards making sure their ranks. Coaching staff that they are as well prepared overseeing the younger teams as possible for their next campaign. As long as they are able to retain their current group of players and perhaps make one or two quality additions they should be able to enjoy another successful season. A particular highlight of the team’s play was the attacking brand of football that they managed to produce on a consistent basis. In the league alone they found the back of the net 115 times at a rate of just short of 3 per match. This certainly ensured that any supporters attending their matches were well entertained and should encourage more of the local community to get30 Issue 47
LONG MELFORDLONG MELFORDLong Melford FC plays struggled over the last few looking to do some smarteningtheir home games at the seasons, but have shown up over the summer. Help toStoneylands Stadium on New improvement finishing mid table this end would be welcome.”Road and their first team this year, although we werecurrently competes in the disappointing in the Senior Cup Challenges/AmbitionsEastern Counties League. and FA Vase.”Football Focus Magazine “As with most grass rootscaught up with the club’s Youth clubs, finance is always a bigChairman Alf Woodhouse to problem, along with the lackfind out more about the club. “Developing our own talent is very of helpers to lighten the load important to us; we have a history of the committed few. We areInvolvement of players coming up through the fairly comfortable at our current youth teams and going on to be level and would find it difficultHe started by telling us about successful at senior level. We try to support to moving up thehow he got involved with the club, to introduce them gradually with ladder with our current clubsaying, “This is my 50th year substitution roles and encourage structure. Our ambitions for thenow. I was born in the village, our U18s to train with the next five years are to improvesupported the team as a child seniors.” our league positions and toand always wanted to play for have some success in both thethe club. The biggest challenges The Set-up Suffolk Senior and FA Cup andof the role are to keep it going; it FA Vase.”becomes harder each year to find “We have teams of all age groupspeople willing to give their time to from U8’s upwards as well as a Hopefully Long Melford willhelp run the club. I still get a buzz thriving ladies team. Our playing be able to continue to makethough when we win a game.” surface this season has been progress over the coming years second to none in the league, and Football Focus MagazineAtmosphere and with the close season work would like to wish everyone at in progress will be even better for the club the best of luck for the“We have had a fairly successful next season. Our club house and future.season and the general mood changing rooms however are inis good here now. We have need of some work and we will be www.footballfocus.biz 31
BRIDON ROPESBRIDON ROPESFirst Established in 1935, days simply because i knew a so-so as a few clubs had reallyBridon Ropes FC play their few people there. I started in the improved their teams from thehome games at the Meridian reserves and after a while got year before. Our successes cameSports and Social Club on into the first team and as I got in the cups winning the LondonCharlton Park Lane and their older (and slower!) went back to Senior Trophy for the first timefirst team currently competes the reserves as manager before and reaching the semis in onein the Kent Invicta Football going on to manage the firsts. and the quarters in another. WeLeague. Football Focus will have to up our game nextMagazine recently caught I became Secretary around season as the teams will haveup with the clubs Chairman 1983/84. In that job there is improved again as the standardRichard Clements to find out always something going on, gets ever higher.”more about the good work that something to sort out and thethey have been doing. satisfaction is getting it done Challenges without any fuss so nobody evenInvolvement knows things had happened and “Last season was one of the club goes on.” disruption as the first teamHe started by telling us about management left in mid-seasonhow he got involved with the club, This Campaign and we had to find a new team tosaying, “I first joined Bridon in take over and we are very grateful1974 after the team I played for “The season this year was really to Danny Frost and his team forfolded, so I joined British Ropes a split one for us. Finishing in the stepping in.as they were known in those middle of the table this year was32 Issue 47
BRIDON ROPESWe have now appointed a new managerto the first team and the under 21s andthey are both committed to bringing theyouth players through into the first teamas regular players and not just to fill agap left by injury to senior players. BothGary and Mark will work together to putus on an even path for next season.”Ambitions“Over the next five years we will lookto improve the club both on and of thepitch to get as far as we can. We play atMeridian Sports and Social Club whichis being upgraded with lights, fencing,stands and turnstiles so it is all lookingand feeling like there are very excitingtimes ahead. The one drawback we haveto really look at is the financial side of itall and this is where we as a club mustwork really had to try and secure thatso as to secure the long term future ofBridon Ropes.”There is clearly much to admire aboutthe set-up that Bridon Ropes has inplace and hopefully they will be able tokeep up their good work for many yearsto come. www.footballfocus.biz 33
LYDNEY TOWNLYDNEY TOWNLydney Town FC’s ensured that any supporters a considerable amount ofroots can be traced attending their matches effort into developing theirback to 1911 and were well entertained and youth set-up. This part ofthe club has shown should encourage more of the club looks to providetremendous longevity the community to get behind young players from the localto continue for so long. them in the future. area with an opportunity toThey play their home play the game in a safe andgames at the Lydney They were also tight enjoyable environment.Recreation Ground in defensively and this playedGloucestershire and a key part in making them It is important for any teamtheir first team currently such a difficult side to to be able to produce theircompetes in Division beat over the course of own talent, particularly in the1 West of the Uhlsport the season. They only current financial climate andHellenic League. conceded 26 times and this this is an area that Lydney was a reflection of how well Town appears to haveTheir first team put together organised they were. covered. It will certainly bea strong campaign this time The club’s attentions will exciting to watch to see howaround, managing to win now turn towards ensuring their young players are able19, draw 4 and lose just 5 that they have a productive to develop over the comingof their 28 league matches. off-season so that they can years.This saw them finish in 2nd do well again in 2014-15.place in the table not far As long as they are able to In order to help thembehind the leaders with 61 retain their current group of to make the sometimespoints on the board. players and perhaps make difficult transition into the one or two quality additions senior game they also haveA particular highlight of they will be well positioned additional sides running.the team’s form was the to add to their growing This allows them to giveattacking brand of football reputation in the local area. players experience of adultthat they managed to level football even if they areproduce as they found Lydney Town is not a club not yet considered ready forthe back of the net 78 that focuses solely upon first team action which cantimes at a rate of nearly 3 their senior section however be an important step in theper game. This certainly and they are also putting development process.3434 Issue 47
LYDNEY TOWNAnother benefit of having morethan one side is that it allows thefirst XI to benefit from far greaterstrength in depth. If they are everleft short on numbers through injuryor suspension then they have theoption of calling players up with alimited amount of disruption.Lydney Town FC is clearly a clubthat plays a vital role in their localcommunity and hopefully they willbe able to keep up the good workthat they have been doing for manyyears to come. www.footballfocus.biz 35
CLACHNACUDDINCLACHNACUDDINBased at Grant Street Park in along and a new board was formed. I the start of the new season saw us getInverness, Clachnacuddin FC was then asked to become secretary off to a terrible start with some heavycurrently competes in the Scottish a role of which I am still doing today.” defeats along the way which included aHighland Football League. Football heavy loss in the Scottish Cup.Focus Magazine caught up with Atmospherethe club’s Secretary Dougie Noble The second half of the season sawto find out more about them. “The mood at the club is excellent some players come back and along as we finished the season on a high with some young players who byInvolvement winning the Highland League Cup now had settled in we started to win and although we have seen one of matches and only lost 3 league gamesHe told us, “Although I have been our top players leave in the summer till the end of the season. Although wea lifelong supporter it wasn’t until we have already strengthened the got knocked out of the League Cuparound 2008 that I got involved with team with players coming in with in the preliminary round the club wethe club. A supporter’s trust was others to follow in the coming weeks played were found to have played anformed to help the club as it was in and we are very much looking ineligible player. We were reinstatedfinancial difficulty and I was one of forward to next season.” and went all the way to the final beatingthe founder members of the trust. Buckie Thistle 4-3 on penalties after it Last Season finished 3-3 aet.”I was then asked to be the trustrepresentative on the board and “Last season we finished 5th and our Youthduring that time the club unfortunately manager got Manager of the Year inwent into administration before the Highland League. Hopes were “We have recently formed a partnershipbusiness man Alan Savage came high but a horrendous injury list at with Merkinch Football Academy to36 Issue 47
CLACHNACUDDINdevelop our links in the Community; in the second largest Youth Tournamentconjunction with the partnership we have in Europe. The tournament comprisesbeen awarded the SFA Quality Mark some 1000 teams from 64 CountriesCommunity Level Accreditation Award. Worldwide and will provide a socialWe are in the Merkinch area of the town and cultural experience to their footballand we have always been known as a education.”friendly club, one that gives youngsters achance. We also try to let others use the Communitypark for finals etc.” “In addition to our football programme weDevelopment provide all our players with information on healthy eating and life styles“The Youth Development section within through our Lily Life Programme. Thethe football club has been in place since group is self-financing with all funds2004, it has grown year on year and being generated internally through acurrently comprises squads from Primary comprehensive fund raising programme.3 up to U17. It is an integral part of theclub and provides a pathway for players The current First Team Manager isfrom the age group teams towards the extremely supportive of the YouthFirst team. Development programme and is a regular visitor to our games. There areAt present there are some 140 youth currently six of the First Team squadplayers and 22 coaches, all volunteers, who have come through the Youthin the section, they play development Development programme with more infootball on a regular basis in the the pipeline.Highland League and the Moray FirthLeague. In conjunction with our football In terms of our Community involvement,education programme we are also our section has recently formed akeen to challenge our teams against partnership with Merkinch Footballdifferent levels and styles of play. This Academy to develop our links in thecoming summer our U15 side head for Community. In conjunction with theDenmark to participate in the Dana Cup, partnership we have been awarded the SFA Quality Mark Community Level Accreditation Award.” 37 Challenges/Ambitions “Our biggest challenge will be to contain costs, good players are always in demand and we find it hard to compete with wealthier clubs. We have a fantastic youth setup so we now have to build on our cup success and ensure that the new crop of talent are retained and allowed to flourish in the first team.” www.footballfocus.biz
BOTTESFORD TOWNBOTTESFORD TOWN Based at Birch Park on We are a club that hopes to We’ve got plenty of young lads Ontario Road in North make progress and we want here that are keen to play the Lincolnshire, Bottesford to establish ourselves in the game but it can be difficult to Town enjoyed a strong league above. keep the good players as they season last time around as get other offers. It’s just keeping they finished in 3rd place in Hopefully we’ll be able to the club running off the pitch Division 1 of the Northern keep progressing but we that’s important but I think we’re Counties East League. Club want to do so whilst keeping managing that well at present.” President Gary Carnaby the club finances in order took the time to tell us and so how far we are able There is much to admire about more about the club. to go after that will depend the set-up that Bottesford Town on investment within the club have in place and hopefully they He said, “I’ve been President which is I guess the same will be able to continue in the now for coming up to 3 years. for most teams. That’s the same manner for many years to I got involved because I biggest challenge for us, come. Football Focus Magazine wanted to work at grass roots gaining sponsorship and would like to wish them the best level and any assistance investment. of luck. that the club got was greatly appreciated. I enjoy the friendly atmosphere at the club. It’s a very family orientated set-up here. Last year we had a really good first half to the season, although it didn’t finish quite as we would have liked. We ended up finishing 3rd in the table and maybe should have finished higher but we were happy with how it went overall. The run at the end didn’t go quite right and the pressure got the players a little bit I think. We play an entertaining brand of football; we’ve had a couple of good strikers this year and I think it’s important that we continue to play entertaining football and build on that next year to encourage the local community to get behind us. Next season, we hope to be pushing for promotion. Having been so close this year we want to improve on that which will mean that that is our minimum expectation.38 Issue 47
PORT VALEPORT VALEPort Vale FC has enjoyed a SEE THE MAGICsuccessful campaign this timearound, managing to consolidate 12 3their position in League 1. Theyalso do a tremendous amount of Download the Open the app Point your device at thegood work in their community and ooh-AR app from with a simple tap. ooh-AR logo above – andFootball Focus Magazine caught up App Store or wait for the surprise.with the club’s Trust Manager Jim Google Play. Double tap for full screen.Cooper to find out more. ooh-AR, 18 Soho Square, London, W1D 3QLInvolvement 0207 025 8331 [email protected] ooh-AR.comHe told us, “I have been involvedwith the club for 41 years, initiallyrepresenting them at U18 and U21level until injury prevented me frommaking further progress. I reconnectedwith the club in 1990 when I wasapproached by their senior scout RonIbbs to find some talent in the youngerage groups and to coach their centreof excellence players.I was attracted by the opportunity towork in professional football and thechance to find and develop youngtalent. In 1993 the club approachedme to fill their vacancy for a Footballin the Community Manager and havecontinued in that role to this dayspanning 21 years.”The Role“The most challenging aspects of myrole include ensuring the sustainabilityof the scheme for the long term, clubpolitics and managing change. Themost rewarding aspects for me havebeen working with those people whoare disadvantaged in society as theyare so appreciative of your support.”On the Pitch“The club mood is positive followingour promotion from League DivisionTwo in the 2012/13 season. The teamhas excelled on its return to LeagueOne this season by recording a topten finish and will look to build on thatfurther in the future.” www.footballfocus.biz 39
PORT VALE Youth “Clubs at our level need a successful youth development programme to provide players for the first team and eventually move on and provide income for the club. We have an established academy structure and operate squads from U9 to U16s and a scholarship programme. In line with the youth development structure, it is vital to the future success of the club that they recognise the value from having a vibrant community trust and the benefits it can bring to the club including the power to introduce new generations of supporters, raising awareness of the club brand and supporting corporate social responsibility.” Community “We operate a diverse range of inclusive activities from age 4 up to senior citizens including football and multi-sport development programmes, positive engagement for children and40 Issue 47
young people during evening and PORT VALEholiday periods, career support in highschool, further and higher education Challenges/Ambitionsopportunities through football, personalsocial development initiatives for young “Our club, like all others outside the FApeople, healthy living projects, local Premier League will continue to face aand national six a side competitions, financial challenge and potential changespenalty shootout fundraisers, playground to the league structure could prove asupervision, sports leadership, disability further difficulty. Off the pitch, we aresports provision, women and girls looking to complete the redevelopmentfootball, hospital and charitable visits and Vale Park and its playing facilities. Frommuch more.” a playing perspective the club will want to reach the Championship and be sustainable over the next five years.” KMF_YEOTY_SCFC Advert_171213_VISUAL.pdf 1 17/12/2013 11:16 C M Y CM MY CYCMY K www.football-focus.biz 41
WIMBORNE TOWN WIMBORNE TOWN First established in 1878, Wimborne Town FC was a founder member of the South Hampshire and Dorset Football Association in 1878. They won their first silverware in 1913 when they claimed the Dorset Minor Cup for the only time in their existence and have continued to build an illustrious history since then. Undoubtedly, one of their greatest triumphs in their more recent past came in 1992 when they managed to win the FA Vase whilst they reached the First Round Proper of the FA Cup for the first time in the 1982-83 season. The current group of players will be keen to add to these successes in the coming years. This time around their first team to put together a steady campaign, finishing with a league record of having won 16, drawn 7 and lost 19 of their 42 matches. This saw them claim a safe mid- table position with 55 points on the board. This should provide them with a good platform upon which to build as they look ahead to the 2014- 15 campaign. So long as they are able to retain their current group of players and perhaps make one or two quality additions they should be able to claim a higher league finish. A particular highlight of the team’s play last year was the commitment they made to playing an attacking brand of football. In the league alone they managed to score 78 goals at a rate of nearly 2 per game. This certainly meant that any supporters attending their matches were well entertained and should encourage more42 Issue 47
WIMBORNE TOWN of their local community to get behind the side. Playing an attacking style of play can also help players to enjoy representing the club which will help them to build a quality squad. The club’s attention will now have turned towards preparing for the 2014-15 campaign and their Manager Steve Cuss recently told Stour and Avon Magazine of the clubs plans saying, “Gaining promotion from the Wessex League is a big step and it takes most clubs time to adapt, and that includes Wimborne Town.” “In training and in our preparation for games, the aim is always for our players to go out on the pitchand win, I love being manager here and I can’t wait forthe season to begin.”One of the standout features of Wimborne’s set-up isthe superb youth section that they have in place. Thispart of the club looks to provide young players fromthe local area with an opportunity to play the game in asafe and enjoyable environment whilst helping them toreach their full potential.www.footballfocus.biz 43
WIMBORNE TOWN It is important for any club to be able to produce their own talent, particularly in the current financial climate. Coaching staff involved with the youth teams are confident that they have a number of players with the potential to go on and represent the team at senior level. In order to help their youngsters make the sometimes difficult transition into the senior game, Wimborne Town also have a reserve side running. This allows them to give players experience of adult level football even if they are not yet considered ready for first team action. Another benefit of having more than one side is that it allows the first XI to benefit from far greater strength in depth. If they are ever left short on numbers through injury or suspension they have the option of calling players up with a limited amount of disruption. There is much to admire about the Wimborne Town set-up and hopefully they will be able to continue in the same manner for many years to come.44 Issue 47
CB HOUNSLOW UNITEDCB HOUNSLOWUNITEDBased on Bedfont Lane in promotions and runners up spots. Jamaica) has also been veryMiddlesex, CB Hounslow Youth football is our life blood. helpful to us at Staines TownUnited FC currently competes We are yet to see great numbers providing us with pre-seasonin Division 1 of the Combined coming through, because this part games and potential trails for ourCounties Football League and of the club is in its infancy. But better players.is a great example of a well-run next season we will be starting ourestablishment. Football Focus very first U18’s in a senior league We are very much a communityMagazine caught up with the and an U23’s playing as our senior club. We have a close partnershipclub’s Chairman Frank James reserve team. These teams look with Hounslow schools localto find out more about the to provide our youngsters with business, local police and charitygood work that they’ve been the best possible preparation for groups. Our biggest challenge willdoing. senior football. be keeping a good standard of coaching going around our setup.He told us, “We started the In our youth section we have boys Good coaches and administratorsclub in 1989. We got it going that regularly have trials at local are very hard to find and evenbecause we had a lot of local clubs such as QPR, Brentford and harder to keep. Our ambitionslads in Chiswick and Hounslow Fulham. We have had players over the next 5 years are forlooking for something to do such as Carlton Cole (Chelsea our 1st team to play at step 5 ortogether and football was the and England) and Andy Myers above.”common denominator. The most (Chelsea) that were part of ourchallenging aspect is the finances setup when we first started theand the logistics of running so club. Marcus Gayle (Wimbledon,many sides at different agegroups.The atmosphere at the club isvery much buzzing now. We havehad new teams join us and a raftof new qualified coaches. Lastseason did not look promisingfor the 1st team as we started offas though we were going to berelegated but we turned it aroundat the end and came 4th frombottom escaping by 10pts in theend. All the other sides were justabove average but no trophies forthe adults. The juniors had variedsuccess including a couple of www.footballfocus.biz 45
HESKETH BANKHESKETH BANKHesketh Bank Association For the record the team played drainage of the pitch, building ofFootball Club completed the 30 league matches winning 22, changing rooms in conjunctionleague and cup double in the drawing 5 and losing just 3. They with the Cricket Club, pitchWest Lancashire Football scored 83 goals and conceded side fencing, the stand andLeague Division One for the 28. Leading goal scorers were refreshment facilities.second time since they joined strikers John Stead with 24 goalsthe league in 1987. They won and Dan Birkby who scored 21 In 1995 a new unified club wasthe Presidents Cup for a record goals. born out of an amalgamation offifth time when they beat Hurst the senior club and Hesketh BankGreen FC 2-1 in the final at The Senior Section of the club Boys Club who had been formedCharnock Richard’s ground. is holding their Presentation in 1972. The amalgamation of Evening at the Capricci Bar & the two clubs helps maintain theFollowing the Final they had Grill Restaurant on Saturday 14th continuity of youngsters beingthree league games left all away June and the Junior Section have able to move up through thefrom home knowing that 3 points their Presentation afternoon on youth teams and into the seniorwould see them promoted but to Sunday 22nd June at Our Lady’s squads. The club now currentlygo up as champions they would Catholic Hall. operates teams from U7’sneed to win all three. They duly through to Veterans. All the teamsobtained promotion by winning The village of Hesketh Bank are sponsored by local business’sthe first of these three fixtures has a long tradition of football which enables them to turn out in5-1 at Dalton United. They then going back as far as the late their traditional amber and blackwon 6-0 at Ambleside United and 19th century. The present club quartered kits.in their final match they defeated was formed in 1922 and until theTurton FC 4-2 to be crowned as 1987/88 season when joining the The first team represents thechampions. West Lancashire League, the village in a county league, club played mainly in the local the West Lancashire FootballThe majority of the squad have Southport & District League. League, which stretches frommade their way up through the In common with most village the old Lancashire borders as farJunior Section of the club and sides, the club was kept alive as Cumbria, West Yorkshire andthey will now be promoted to by the efforts of a small number Greaterthe top division in the West of individuals who worked Manchester. Looking to the futureLancashire League which places hard to provide football for the the clubs main aim is to increasethem into the FA’s Step 7 of the community. its junior membership, continue toNational Football Pyramid. To cap work as a FA Charter Status Cluba wonderful season for the club In the late 1970’s and early and improve facilities.the reserves finished a creditable 1980’s there was a complete4th in their division and the newly re-organisation of the club which For up to date information pleaseformed Sunday Team were saw a planned programme of visit the club’s website www.champions of their division in the improvements, including the re- heskethbankafc.co.ukLancashire Sunday League.46 Issue 47
NEWHAVENNEWHAVENBased on Fort Road in We have links with Denton and Challenges/AmbitionsEast Sussex, Newhaven FC South Heighton JFC (DaSH);currently competes in the a local boys club and also “Keeping the balance betweenSussex County Football Seahaven Harriers Ladies use success on the field withLeague. They have achieved our ground as their home pitch. improvement of our facilitiestremendous success in recent We also have our own U13 Boys, whilst keeping the clubs localtimes and Club Chairman Andy U18 youth and 4 Girls teams.” community identity is the biggestLloyd took the time to tell us challenge for us. We want tomore about them and their Youth complete the unfinished stand,approach to the game. club rooms and changing facilities “Youth is key to the future of and also achieve higher leagueInvolvement the club - not only from players status within the football pyramid, feeding through but also as a targeting Ryman and possibly“I have personally been involved community hub. We make it Conference level over the comingin Newhaven FC since 2006 clear to all our managing staff on years.” Football Focus Magazine- initially joining as chairman appointment that it is the clubs wishes them the best of luck inand coordinator of the newly policy to bring youngsters achieving these goals.formed girls section due to my through the system anddaughter playing in the team that encourage involvement as muchI managed. as possible.”The most challenging part of myrole is trying to keep everyonehappy whilst striving for successon the field and also recruitingunpaid volunteers (every club hasthe few that do and the majoritythat talk a good job!) The bestpart of the role is the sense ofachievement of putting somethingback into the community.”Atmosphere“The mood in the club is verypositive and also buzzing dueto the recent back to backpromotions and consolidation inDivision 1 for the 1st team andalso the pending promotion ofthe reserves into the ReservePremier League. This season hasbeen a bit of a roller coaster butwe are pleased with the outcomeconsidering we have gonethrough 3 management teamsthis season.”Community“We are absolutely a communityclub; it is our basis andconstitution, we also lookto involve local clubs andorganisations outside of footballas part of our plans for futuredevelopment of our facilities. www.footballfocus.biz 47
WITHAM TOWNWITHAM TOWNWitham Town FC enjoyed a credit for that. The team plays a have got us into the league andsuperb season in 2013/14, very entertaining style of football we are backing them to do well.managing to win promotion to and this has encouraged a lot of It’s important for us to retain thethe Ryman Premier League. the community to get behind the continuity that we’ve got here andFootball Focus Magazine caught team and I think they’ve been a keep an identity to the club.”up with the club’s success to bit surprised by the high standardfind out what has been behind that we’ve been playing at. We’re Communitytheir success. averaging just over a hundred and we hope to continue to grow our “Youth football is very importantInvolvement supporter numbers in the coming to us here. We run 9 youth teams years with moving up a league.” in total to complement the senior“I’ve been involved for 10 years sides. The only problem is thatas Chairman, having previously Next Season we’ve only got one pitch at thebeen manager for four. It’s had its moment so are looking to gainups and downs; I’ve gained a few “There’s a little bit of work to be some land to build some pitchesgrey hairs along the way! When I done on the ground for the new specifically for the youth teams.took over as Chairman we were league with 150 seats to be put This would help to bring everyonein a difficult financial position but in but we’ve got a little time to do together ‘under one roof’.we don’t owe anybody anything that and are on course to get themnow. Our Treasurer has done a in place. We’re looking forwardsfantastic job for us and the work to next season now and hope toour volunteers do for nothing is retain the current group of playerssomething else really.” we’ve got. These are the guys thatBuoyant“The mood at the club is buoyant \"---'---..at the moment. We can’t be ----------2--\"unhappy having managed to winpromotion. We’d have liked to have ---------won the league but are delighted ---2-----to be getting promoted. The world--.players gave their all throughoutthe campaign with a challenging -------fixture list which took its toll in the ---,----end. worldwide,----------The play-off final was attended by -------nearly 1000 people here. It wasn’t trade,-------as good as it could have been --.-financially but the team playedreally well on the day. Harlow had > ---,----beaten us twice but we played --Continent.them off the park. We had a mansent off with 20 minutes to go but > -----.were still the better side after that,adding to our total to claim a 3-0 > ------.win.”Success > -.“The manager done a superb job -- . -as well, building them up from not 0 , 000 ,winning the league to winning theplay-offs and he deserves great E A S T W A Y S , 0 , 0 , 00 3 P L , 0 0+440(0)0440000600 0+440(0)0440000601 0-express.co.uk 0.pfeweb.com48 Issue 47
CLUBResult! are proud to supportWitham Town FCFor a free valuation call the teamon 01376 510 710 8am-10pmeveryday or visit haart.co.ukTo raise interest, get viewings andsecure the result you want soonercall today on 01159 268 8778am-10pm everyday. WITHAM 62 NewlFaonrdmoSrterpereopte,rWtieisthinayomur,waEwrwes.foasotvebaisxllfiotcCuhsa.Mbaizr8t.c1oA.ukH49
WITHAM TOWN We play an important role in the community here. We’ve got a good rapport with the local services and the local MP and we look to provide anyone looking to play the game with a chance to do so. We’ve got a ladies team which has good numbers and they haven’t had a bad season either, managing to consolidate in the league they’re in with a view to improving next season.” Challenges/Ambitions “The biggest challenge we face is on the financial side of things trying to balance the books. With getting promoted there is going to be more travelling and some players will be looking for more many so it’s important to keep a check on things. We’ve been in a lot of debt previously and we’re not going to let it go back to that. Our first ambition next season is to avoid relegation. Hopefully we’ll be able to build from there, developing our ground and creating an infrastructure behind the scenes to allow the playing side of things to flourish. To finish, I’d like to add that I can’t thank the people that work very hard at the club who give up their time for nothing. Without them we wouldn’t be able to achieve half of what we have.”50 Issue 47
Search
