Pre-season is a chance for me to look back on what we achieved last season. Being so involved with the club it’s a great chance to take a step back and see what we have achieved in such a short time.
Since forming in 2012, with about 8 blokes on a 5 a side pitch at the school, we have grown to become one of the fastest growing clubs in Gloucestershire and the largest Sunday league presence. As well as a growing reputation of being a well-run club with teams who play good football it’s always going to be word of mouth that helps the club expand.
This year we see the launch of the clubs first reserve side rather than an independent team. This decision was made thanks to the expansion of the Sunday league and more importantly the decision by players not to sever ties with the team they already play for. Since the 2014/15 season ended we had 60 people enquire about joining…so who knows this time next year we may see a
Javelins reserve side in the not too decent future!
The Veterans have also recruited new players and look to get promoted as the Veterans league has expanded into 2 divisions.
This year is also the first season Mike Shaw won’t be pulling on his number 4 shirt, as he decided to spend more time with his family. Mike really helped the club take off when it first started and did so much to build a positive atmosphere he will be sorely missed. For those that didn’t make it to the AGM we will be renaming the Clubman of the Year award to the Mike Shaw award – they are big shoes to fill! Looking forward this looks to be an exciting season for all 4 teams of the Hoop family and
I wish you all the very best in achieving your ambitions and challenging for silverware.
Matt Sargeant
CEFC Chairman