Woking Football Club Limited is a private company limited by shares registered in England, company number 03329172. Material shareholders holding in excess of 10% of the Ordinary shares of Woking Football Club Limited are currently Mr. Peter Jordan, who controls 46%, The Cardinals Supporters’ Society (Chairman Mr. Rupert Phillips) which controls 23% and Final Third Sport UK (Shareholding Directors Mr. Dwight Volpe and Mr John Katz) and which controls 14% of the voting rights in the Company.
Board of Directors: Drew Volpe, John Katz, Dave Curtis, Gareth Farrell, George Burnett
Chief Operating Officer: Dave Curtis
Company Secretary: George Burnett
Honorary Vice President: Peter Jordan
Club Ambassador: Geoff Chapple
Business Development Director: Simon Jones
Accounts & Finance Manager: Pam Stevenson
Food & Beverage Manager: Evie Carey
Sales Administrator: Issac Allen-Harris
Media Lead: Jonnie Green
Safety Officer: Amelia Tyson
Ticketing & Operations Executive: Sheena Nichol
Shop Manager: Ben Cavey
Club Chaplain: Ian Nicholson
DIRECTORS NOTES
WeLCoMe
Greetings, and welcome back to the Laithwaite Community Stadium as we host Wealdstone at the Laithwaite Community Stadium for Match Day 8.
In my last notes, I spoke of our plans to collaborate with Gateshead in raising funds for Greg Olly – I am delighted to share that due to your incredible support, the club raised over £3,500 to support Greg during his rehabilitation. Thank you to all involved, and a particular mention to Club Chaplain Ian Nicholson.
Back into the thick of action, tonight will be match 2 of 3 in 7 days for Michael and lads during another busy week. A huge thank you
to the 150 fans who made the trip to Braintree on Saturday, where we left with a point – as always, your support is incredible. With our “2 For Tuesday” and “Schools initiative” launching this evening, we’re hoping to see lots of new faces around the ground, so let’s give them a warm Woking welcome as we aim to inspire the next generation of Cards.
Around the ground
The club unveiled its 3rd kit on Friday night –catch the video here
The smart white and blue number is available to purchase in the club shop from this evening, and normal office hours during the week. Simply pop to reception and a member of the team
will open the shop. Last week saw us publish our first “Community Column”. Sponsored by Bidfood, this monthly column highlights all the great work the club and our partners do in the local community. You can check out the August edition here.
Commercially, we’ve welcomed several new partners in recent weeks to the family, with a raft of announcements and exciting initiatives due to be unveiled over the next month. We welcome Menzies as our Match Sponsor this evening. As always, keep an eye on our socials for all the latest news. As the Business Development Team continues to take shape, I am keen to hear from fans with any feedback (good or bad!), ideas or inspirations – drop me a note at simon.jones@ wokingfc.co.uk
All matches in one place, live, on-demand and on any device
2024/25 SeASoN TiCKETS
IN SAFe HANDS
As a reminder, it is our goal to ensure that all supporters feel safe and welcome at the Laithwaite Community Stadium. To that end, on 11 December 2021, the Club launched the “In Safe Hands” programme to help our fans report racist, sexist, homophobic, or other abusive language simply and anonymously.
If you hear any abusive language, experience it yourself or if you or someone you see feels / looks threatened, you can text the Club anonymously and the message will be monitored by our Safety Officer during the match. Simply text WFC (followed by the nature of your concern and location) to 66777 and we will address your concerns. Example: If you hear racial abuse whilst sitting in the KRE, please send the following text to 66777: “WFC racial abuse centre section of KRE.”
The Football Foundation is the Premier League, The FA and the Government’s charity.
We award grants and work with partners to deliver outstanding grassroots football facilities across England.
Search Football Foundation to find out more.
AHe AD oF THe GAMe
Woking are back under the lights at the Laithwaite on Tuesday night as they take on familiar opponents
Wealdstone. Following a point and a clean sheet away at Braintree Town on Saturday, Michael Doyle’s side are looking to back it up against a side very much in transition.
Debuts for Raheem Conte and Tom Leahy were positive signs as the squad continues to take shape, and Doyle may look to rotate with another game fast around the corner.
With Two for Tuesday on offer, why not come down and bring a friend to help cheer on the Cards!
OPPOSITION WATCH
Woking vs Wealdstone Vanarama National League
Tuesday 10th September 2024
19:45 Kick-Off
Enzio Boldewijn, former Watford defender Adrian Mariappa and Sutton midfielder Craig Eastmond, the focus is on experience in key areas to keep the Stones afloat.
However, this hasn’t gone to plan thus far, with a lengthy injury list disrupting what has been a tricky start. Five points from seven games, with a solitary home win against Fylde means that the Stones are looking for results to improve, although they were just seconds away from beating Hartlepool away on the Bank Holiday weekend.
AROUND THE GROUND
Tickets are available to purchase online here.
As previously mentioned, there is a Two for Tuesday offer on for this game, and you can find further details here.
The new third kit is also on sale in the club shop, which opens at 6pm as soon as gates open.
Wealdstone have punched above their weight at this level since promotion in 2020 as National League South champions, but last season was their most challenging period since Covid. Stuart Maynard left for Notts County, David Noble’s tenure was a mere 73 days before a battering at Boreham Wood left the Stones on the brink, but Sam Cox picked up the pieces to secure safety in incredible fashion, three wins from their last four proving enough.
Matt Taylor was appointed in May, with this being his first venture in non-league football. The losses of former Woking attacker Tarryn Allarakhia to Rochdale, key defender Charlie Barker to Crawley and goalkeeper Marcus Dewhurst to Aldershot have been challenges for the new man, but with 13 incomings, most notably former Notts winger
LAST TIME OUT
Nathan Ferguson’s goal was cancelled out by Charley Kendall as both teams shared the points back in February, whilst the reverse fixture was won by the Stones courtesy of a Sam Bowen strike.
In eleven games between the sides, Woking have won four, there have been three draws and the Stones have also won four.
TICKET INFORMATION
ONLINE & ADVANCE SALES VS. [MATCHDAY SALES]
Adults – £21 [£24]
Concessions – £16 [£19]
Next-Gen (17-22) – £13 [£16]
Under 17 (14-16) – £9 [£12]
Under 14 (13 & under) – £5
Family ticket* - £47.50 [online exclusively]
*Family ticket discount will be applied when two (2) adult tickets & two (2) under 14 tickets are selected and added to the basket for any home league match.
PURCHASE TICKETS
ARRIVING AT THE STADIUM
Kingfield Road turnstiles – blue and yellow entry opens two-and-a-half hours before kick-off, unless otherwise stated.
Westfield Avenue turnstiles - red and orange entry opens two-and-a-half hours before kick-off, unless otherwise stated.
Away supporter turnstiles - white entry opens two hours before kick-off, unless stated otherwise.
Supporters who have purchased a hospitality package will have green entry and should enter through the Guest Entrance, Kingfield Road.
Supporters are reminded to arrive at the Laithwaite Community Stadium in good time, and are not guaranteed to gain entry in time for kick-off when arriving less than 30 minutes before kick-off.
FOOD & DRINK
The Cardinals Bar is located at the front of the stadium.
The bar has full draught and bottle beer options. The Fan Zone is the newest addition for supporters and is located opposite the Cardinals Bar.
Moaners Corner Café is located next Moaners Corners Stand, with hot and cold drinks, plus snacks available.
The Seymours Community Stand has hot food options and a last lane for beverages.
CLUB SHOP
The Club Shop is open two-and-a-half hours before kick-off, located by the Fan Zone.
The shop is also open Mon - Fri, 10:00 - 16:00, upon check-in at reception.
TICKETING INFORMATION
All Woking FC Season Ticket holders can use their Season Ticket card to enter Laithwaite Community Stadium for all Vanarama National League matches.
Supporters with individual match tickets can use the e-ticket they purchased which was emailed from noreply@ktckts.com. Such tickets can be scanned on a smartphone or when printed.
Any assistance needed for matchday please contact tickets@wokingfc.co.uk, call 01483 772470, or come to reception Mon - Fri, 09:0017:00, or matchdays, 09:00 - half-time.
OTHER
INFORMATION
Away supporter information can be found here. Directions to the ground are available here. Disabled access information is available here
So C IAL
@wokingfc
Woking Football Club is delighted to announce the signing of Tom Leahy.
A team you can count on
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For further information visit nuffieldhealth.com/hospitals/woking or call 01483 227 800.
MATCHDAY & BALL SPoNSoRSHIP
Booking as part of a business, or simply looking to celebrate in added style? Why not take out a match or ball sponsorship?
You’ll receive all the incredible VIP Hospitality benefits, plus: Match Sponsorship - £1,150.00 + VAT
• Signed home shirt
• Half-page programme promotion
• PA promotion
• Social media and website promotion
• Access to our “Partner Perks” for the 24/25 season
• Full matchday hospitality for a table of ten (add additional guests for only £50 per person)
• Choose player of the match – read out on PA
• Executive VIP parking
Match Ball Sponsorship - £650.00 + VAT
• Signed match ball
• Half-page programme promotion
• PA promotion
• Social media and website promotion
• Access to our “Partner Perks” for the 24/25 season
• Full matchday hospitality experience for a table of six (add additional guests for only £50 per person)
PLAYeR SPoNSoRSHIP
The club are delighted to announce the Player Sponsorship package for the 24/25 season.
The club have reviewed the price and enhanced the offer to make supporting your favourite 1st team management or player more accessible and rewarding.
From the 24/25 season, player and management sponsors will receive:
• Signed match worn home and away jerseys near the start of the season presented at our Player & Management Sponsors dinner.
• Dedicated video shout-out from the player on signing and/ or on your birthday/special event (or a significant others).
• 2 x hospitality tickets during the season and the opportunity to meet your sponsored player after/before the game.
• Option to attend manager/player meet and greet throughout the season.
• Pre-game scoreboard reel with players and your name/ logo next to them.
Price for 24/25 player sponsorship is £900 + VAT. To sponsor a player, please email Simon, the club's Business Development Director, on simon.jones@wokingfc.co.uk.
4 Cian Harries
28. Ollie Webber
22. Will Jääskeläinen
3. Jacob Jones
2. Dan Moss
7. Harry Beautyman
8. Dale Gorman
5. Timi Odusina
6. Jamie Andrews
21. Ben Wynter
35. Max Dyche
27. Dion Kelly-Evans
11. Dennon Lewis
9. Charley Kendall
26. Tom Dryer
29. Tom Leahy
18. Raheem Conte
Rohan Ince
17. Matt Ward
16. Tunji Akinola
10. Lewis Walker
14. Deon Moore
20. Josh Smith 23. Jermaine Anderson
John Keeley
Dan Rowe
Ben Turner
Michael Doyle
Malcolm Jobling
Thinesh
WeALDSToNe FC
www.wealdstone-fc.com
Wealdstone Football were founded at the beginning of the 1899/00 season, competing in Division 2 of the Willesden & District League, winning their first title in the 1905/06 season but were defunct a year later, reforming for the 1908/09 season becoming champions again in 1912/13. After the First World War, Wealdstone joined the London Senior League and then the Middlesex Senior League, moving into Lower Mead Stadium situated between Harrow and Wealdstone town centres in 1922 after previously playing at the
College Farm Ground and Belmont Road, both in Wealdstone, they joined the Spartan League for their first season at Lower Mead and then joined the Athenian League in 1928/29.
The Stones won the Middlesex Cup double in 1930, winning the Senior Challenge Cup and Senior Charity Cup for the first time and currently have won each trophy a total of 11 times, sharing the Charity Cup on two other occasions. The Stones played at Wembley Stadium for the first time during the Second World War in 1942,
where they beat RAF (Uxbridge) 5-2 after extra time in the Middlesex Senior Red Cross Cup Final.
In 1946 the club was involved in the first televised football match, where the BBC showed part of their Athenian League fixture match away to Barnet. The Stones also took part in the first two ‘live’ FA Cup matches to be screened to BBC viewers in their FA Cup victories over Edgware Town and Colchester United in 1949, they met a Football League side for the first time later in that cup run where they were narrowly beaten by Port Vale in the First Round Proper.
The club won their one and only Athenian League in 1951/52, joining the Isthmian League in 1964. Two years later the Stones enjoyed their second Wembley success, defeating league rivals Hendon 3-1 in the FA Amateur Cup Final at Wembley in front of 45,000 spectators. The Stones turned professional in 1971, joining the Southern League where they won the First Division South in 1974 earning them promotion to the Premier Division which then meant the Stones became
one of the founding members of the Alliance Premier League in 1979, what is now the National League.
A year before that though, the Stones enjoyed their best run in the FA Cup, defeating Football League clubs Hereford United and Reading on route to the Third Round where they made the short trip to Loftus Road to play First Division club Queen’s Park Rangers, unfortunately the Stones were beaten 4-0 on the day by the R’s. Later that season the Stones played in Europe, featuring in the annual Anglo-Italian Tournament, they beat Paganese 4-2 before losing 1-0 to eventual winners Udinese, both at Lower Mead, the Stones then travelled to Italy but were beaten 1-0 by Reggiana and 2-0 by Arezzo.
The club didn’t suffer a relegation until the 1980/81 season but returned to the Conference a season later, winning all five trophies on offer in the Southern League that season. The 1984/85 was the club’s golden year, becoming the first ever club to win the ‘non-league double’
winning both the Conference and FA Trophy in the same season, the club completed a treble that season winning the Middlesex Senior Challenge Cup, too.
Within a few short years the club had been relegated from the Conference into the Southern League Premier Division 1987/88 and then the Southern League Southern Division in 1991/92. The season before also saw the Stones sell their traditional home of Lower Mead in order to stay in existence, the company handling the sale of Lower Mead then went into liquidation and after lengthy court proceedings, the club only received a fraction of the sum Tesco’s had paid for the land. A seventeen-year period of groundsharing began at Watford’s Vicarage Road for two seasons, and then at Yeading FC for another two seasons.
The 1995/96 season saw a new era for the club as they began a groundshare with Edgware Town at their White Lion Ground and had left the Southern League to rejoin the Isthmian League for the first time since 1971, although at a cost as they had to begin two tiers lower in the Isthmian Third Division, where they finished fourth in their first season. Two successive promotions followed under the guidance of manager Gordon Bartlett who would spend 22 successful years at the club. The Stones almost made it three successive promotions but were denied promotion due to Edgware Town’s stadium not meeting the necessary requirements for the top Isthmian division. The Stones eventually won promotion in the 2003/04 season beating Dulwich Hamlet in a play-off final penalty shootout.
During this groundsharing period the club attempted to redevelop the local Prince Edward Playing Fields, owned by the London Borough of Harrow, into a new home ground. Construction of the new stadium started in 2003 but, when over 60% complete, was suddenly halted in April 2004 when the private company who were cofinancing the project with the club went into insolvency. Unable to afford the completion of the new stadium on their own, Wealdstone had to leave the site unfinished for two years,
until Harrow borough council eventually sold it to Barnet FC who later moved in to what became The Hive Stadium in 2013.
The Stones moved to Northwood FC’s Chestnut Avenue ground for the 2005/06 where they would spend three years. The club spent a solitary season back in the Southern League in 2006/07 before returning to the Isthmian League the following season. The club acquired a lease to the then defunct Ruislip Manor FC’s Grosvenor Vale ground in 2008, with dedicated fans helping to bring the stadium up to the standard required by the Isthmian League and from the start of the 2008/09 season had a stadium and clubhouse of their own.
At The Vale the club has prospered, hosting Football League clubs Colchester United and Rotherham United in the FA Cup, reaching the FA Trophy semi-finals twice and earning two promotions. The first success story came in the 2010/11 season, where they lost in the semi-finals of the FA Trophy to eventual winners Newport County, beating National League sides Barrow, Dartford and Cambridge United in that cup run.
The 2013/14 season saw Gordon Bartlett’s final promotion as Wealdstone manager where they won the Isthmian Premier League as champions, promoting them into the National League South. The BBC cameras rolled into Grosvenor Vale the following season, as the Stones made it to the First Round Proper for the first time since 1987, eventually losing 6-2 to League One side Colchester United.
The first managerial change in 22 years came early in the 2017/18 season where Gordon Bartlett was replaced by Bobby Wilkinson despite narrowly missing the play-offs the season before. Wilkinson spent two seasons with the Stones, with the club reaching the FA Trophy semi-finals again in his first season, again losing to eventual winners Brackley Town and then reaching the National League South play-offs the season after, where final minute heartache saw them lose out to Woking in the semi-final. Wilkinson left the club after the 2018/19 season and was replaced
by former Hemel Hempstead Town manager Dean Brennan. With a reduced budget, Brennan delivered the National League South title for the Stones with a breathtaking style of attacking football that saw them dismantle title rivals Havant & Waterlooville (4-2 away) and Bath City (7-0 at home) in emphatic victories to take the Stones back to the pinnacle of the non-league pyramid for the first time in over 30 years. Brennan was replaced by his assistant Stuart Maynard in the Stones return to the National League midway through the 2020/21 season, and he’s guided them to three successive improved finishes in the National League, coming 13th last season and securing the club it’s highest league finish in 37 years after a campaign largely spent flirting with the play-off positions. David Noble took the reigns from Maynard in January 2024 but lasted only three months in the job with two wins in 15 games. Interim Head Coach Sam Cox kept the Stones in the division, winning three of the final four games of the season, including a dramatic comeback at home against Dorking Wanderers form 2-0 down, winning 4-2.
The Stones appointed former Portsmouth, West Ham and Bolton winger Matt Taylor this summer in their attempts to start fresh going into their fourth successive National League campaign.
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HoSPiTALiTY PACKAGe S 24/25
Woking Football Club is pleased to confirm its matchday hospitality prices for 2024/25.
Enjoy VIP matchday hospitality for only £65 per person at the Laithwaite Community Stadium.
You will be able to book in advance for all 24/25 fixtures online once the list has been released.
What’s included?
• Three-course meal* prepared by our in-house chef team using locally sourced ingredients supplied by Simmons Family Butchers and Boz’s Fruit & Veg.
• Executive leather padded seats in the Seymours Community Stand.
• Dedicated lounge emcee.
• Exclusive bar and drinks options.
• Pre-match first-team management or player visit.
• Hear from the match sponsors’ player of the match after the game.
Existing 2024/25 season ticket holders can enjoy a discount of £15pp for single-match hospitality. All payments for VIP matchday hospitality tickets shall be payable upon booking. Please note – cash is not accepted in the Geoff Chapple Lounge, and we will not accept cash payments on the day. Bookings are
only provisional until payment is made. All payments for hospitality season tickets shall be payable upon booking. If you have already purchased a 2024/25 season ticket**** and wish to upgrade to hospitality or platinum for the season, do so by calling the Club on 01483 772 470. Hospitality will be bookable online via the online ticketing platform or through the Club phone lines.
Other information
* Consisting of a main meal 1 hour before kick-off, a cold pudding at half-time and a cheeseboard for the table to share post-game. The main meal will either be a meat or vegetarian option (1 option of each) and will be sent out via email one week before the match. If you’d like to request an advance menu, please email tickets@wokingfc. co.uk. Please do not email menu choices in advance, as you will choose on the day. Please only email evie.carey@wokingfc.co.uk with allergen or dietary requirements.
** Under 14’s hospitality will enjoy all the benefits of a VIP Hospitality ticket; however, their main meal options are: Cheeseburger & Chips, Hotdog & Chips, Vegan Hotdog & Chips
*** The platinum package includes all the VIP perks, plus five drink vouchers to use per matchday at the Geoff Chapple Lounge bar, which may be redeemed for draught beer pints, 187ml wine by the glass, single spirits with mixers or soft drinks. Please note that platinum packages are only available for hospitality season ticket holders.
AUGUST
Sat Aug 10 Altrincham
Sat Aug 17 Gateshead
Tue Aug 20 Dagenham & Redbridge
Sat Aug 24 Ebbsfleet United
Mon Aug 26 Hartlepool United
Sat Aug 31 Rochdale
SEPTEMBER
Sat Sep 7 Braintree Town
Tue Sep 10 Wealdstone
Sat Sep 14 Oldham Athletic
Sat Sep 21 AFC Fylde
Tue Sep 24 Eastleigh
Sat Sep 28 Sutton United
OCTOBER
Sat Oct 5 York City
Sat Oct 12 Emirates FA Cup 4Q
Sat Oct 19 Tamworth
Tue Oct 22 Solihull Moors
Sat Oct 26 Forest Green Rovers
NOVEMBER
Sat Nov 9 FC Halifax Town
Sat Nov 16 Boston United
Sat Nov 23 Barnet
Tue Nov 26 Southend United
Sat Nov 30 Yeovil Town
DECEMBER
Sat Dec 7 Isuzu FA Trophy 3
Sat Dec 14 Gateshead
Sat Dec 21 Altrincham
Thu Dec 26 Aldershot Town
JANUARY
Wed Jan 1 Maidenhead United
Sat Jan 11 Yeovil Town
Tue Jan 14 Dagenham & Redbridge
Sat Jan 18 Ebbsfleet United
Sat Jan 25 Hartlepool United
FEBRUARY
Sat Feb 1 Rochdale
Sat Feb 8 York City
Sat Feb 15 Tamworth
Tue Feb 18 Solihull Moors
Sat Feb 22 Forest Green Rovers
MARCH
Sat Mar 1 FC Halifax Town
Tue Mar 4 Southend United
Sat Mar 8 Boston United
Sat Mar 15 Barnet
Sat Mar 22 Wealdstone
Sat Mar 29 Braintree Town
APRIL
Sat Apr 5 Oldham Athletic
Sat Apr 12 AFC Fylde
Fri Apr 18 Maidenhead United
Mon Apr 21 Aldershot Town
Sat Apr 26 Eastleigh
MAY
Mon May 5 Sutton United
ABOUT
The Cards Trust (Cardinals Supporters Society) has worked with the Club to represent fans for more than a decade. The Trust is a shareholder of the Club (and owns around a quarter of it) and has a representative on the Board to put forward the fans’ views.
MEMBERSHIP
Supporters can join The Cards Trust for just £10 per year. Information about joining is on the Trust website.
BOOST THE BUDGET
An initiative to help the Club’s playing budget with regular contributions. More than £200,000 has gone to the Club throughout the scheme.
THE 400 CLUB
A prize draw with twelve draws per year. Around £20,000 has been given to support the Club and more than £12,000 in prizes.
GOLDRUSH
The prize draw that gives back 50% to the lucky winner with a draw at half-time on matchday, with a minimum stake of just £1. The prizes have recently been around £400 and the winning number is announced and displayed on the digital screen at half-time.
SOCIAL EVENTS AND VOLUNTEERING
The Trust also organises social events and co-
ordinates the activities of volunteers. Please get in touch if you would like to help on match days.
JUNIOR CARDS
A scheme with a range of activities for under 16s including stadium tours and competitions.
PLAYER AWARD VOTES
The Fans’ Player of the Month and Player of the Season polls are conducted by the Trust.
AWAY MATCH TRAVEL
The Cards Trust arranges coach travel to away matches for supporters at the lowest cost possible. If you are an advertiser that would like to sponsor the travel, please get in touch.
Details of all coaches are available on the Trust website, where tickets can be booked online, usually up to 23:00 on the day before the match. Members and Junior Cards get discounted away match travel.
SUPPORTERS’ LIAISON GROUP
The SLG consults with fans (both Trust members and non-members) and the Club to improve the fan experience. Real change has been made based on ideas from the group including the successful Turner's Tannoy appeal which has financed the recent upgrade in the PA at the stadium.
THE CARDS TRUST THIS WeeK'S UPDATe S
UPCOMING AWAY COACH TRAVEL
Supporters Coaches
Please note that this season we have changed U16 prices to U18 prices
The Supporters Coach to Braintree sold out, Thank you to those that travelled.
AWAY TRAVEL
AFC Flyde No Coach for this match
Eastleigh CLICK HERE
Tamworth CLICK HERE
Solihul Moors CLICK HERE
All coaches are subject to having enough bookings to run. Please book in advance!
JUNIOR CARDS
Membership is open for season 2024/25 and still only £10! Please join up or renew here:
CLICK HERE
BIRTHDAYS
Amelie Mintram - 1st September - 13 years old Noah Jones - 3rd September - 8 years old
400 CLUB
The June draw has been made using a random Number Calculator, (see below). The winning numbers are:
£100 Number 100 Matthew Erskine (Kindly donated to the Greg Olley fund)
£75 Number 60 Bill Sutton
£50 Number 354 Matthew Glide
REDRAWN
£50 Number 311 Marcia Northcote
Congratulations to the winners. To take part, contact john.hooker@cardstrust.co.uk
Cards Trust AGM
The Cards Trust AGM will take place at 19:30, Wednesday 2nd October in the Cardinals Bar. Members will receive an email or letter soon with further details.
MASCoTS PACK AGe
There are two options available
Package One: Full Experience £120* (includes match shirt)
*Current season ticket holders receive a 10% discount (£108 total cost)
• 2024/25 match shirt
• Pre-match stadium tour
• Complimentary match day tickets for 1 adult and 1 child.
• Meet & Greet with photo opportunities with players
• Food & drink voucher.
• Kickabout pitch side as the players warm up.
• Digital programme feature
• Tannoy announcement
• Walk out with the players
• Picture with team captains and match officials
• A Woking FC representative present throughout
Package Two: Full Experience £80* (does not include match shirt)
*Current season ticket holders receive a 10% discount (£72 total cost) Includes all the above
A training top will be lent to the mascot to wear during the pitch-walk in the case that you do not have the current 24/25 match shirt.
Team Mascot Packages are available – please contact the club for more information.
Please note fixtures are subject to availability, If you have any further questions or special requests email simon.jones@wokingfc.co.uk
ACADeMY BULLETIN
UPCOMING FIXTURES
Week commencing 9th September 2024
Wednesday 11th September
14:00 - Woking U19 v Dartford U19
National League Alliance – Academy South Westfield FC, Woking Park
14:00 – Dorking Wandrs U17 v Woking U17
National League Alliance – Division E Redhill FC, Kiln Brow, Three Arch Road, Redhill
Thursday 12th September
19:30 – Aldershot Town U18 v Woking U18
Isthmian Youth League Cup 24-25, 2nd Round. Knaphill FC, Redding Way
Saturday 14th September
15:00 – AFC Dunstable U21 v Woking U21
Suburban Football League Premier Division Creasey Park Community Football Centre, Dunstable
Sunday 15th September
14:00 Bournemouth Sports Reserves v Woking Women
Southern Region – Division One South
Bournemouth Sports Club Development, Chapel Gate, East Parley
For up-to-date information on fixtures please refer to the Woking Football Club Academy twitter page, and the Woking Football Club Women’s Twitter page.
MATCH REPORTS
Week commencing 2nd September
Wednesday 4th September
Woking U17 3 - 2 Hertford Town Whites Woking College, Rydens Way
Last season both games between these two sides finished 3 – 2 to Woking. This was another close match, with chances for both sides, but when Hertford went 2 – 0 up halfway through the second-half it looked like they were turning their having the upper hand in to a victory. With time running out it started to look like they had completed the win, but there was a dramatic twist to come.
Hertford nearly had the lead in the first minute, winning the ball with their quick press after Woking’s kick-off, and playing to George Kingham whose shot was well saved by Aaron Zziwa. Within 5 minutes Zziwa would be making another good save down to his right, this time from Dylan Colletti. Colletti went on to trouble Woking throughout with his movement infield from the left side of midfield.
Woking came in to the game more, starting to match Hertford’s passing, getting forwards Roshan Kigozi and Jojo Ampah in to the game, and Ampah dragged his shot wide after good build-up play from Brian Rai and Frankie Bushby. Ampah’s hold-up play helping his teammates out on more than one occasion.
The sides exchanged chances, Colletti set up Lucas Titchmarsh, but Zziwa was equal to his shot. Ampah shot wide when the rebound from Kigozi’s shot fell to him. Zziwa held well from Kingham’s
shot, his secure handling proving important throughout. Colletti played in Titchmarsh, who was thwarted by a fine covering challenge from Kai Baverstock.
On 28 minutes Hertford captain Fionn O’Connell was given too much space and his shot from 30 yards hit the top of the bar. Woking were having to work hard to counteract their opponent’s movement, and seemed to be struggling to get their own passing game going, but did create a chance for Ampah although his shot was straight at Sonny May.
Hertford were getting the upper hand as the half drew to a close, Colletti testing Zziwa on 3 further occasions, with Ben Nichols also calling the Woking ‘keeper in to action, and Woking were relieved to see a free kick awarded for a foul on Zziwa when Hertford did get the ball in to the net.
Hertford would go to half-time wondering how they were not in the lead, Zziwa proving a great frustration, especially to Colletti, with whom he seemed to be having something of a personal duel. There was work to be done for the Woking coaching team.
Half-time: Woking 0 – 0 Hertford Town
Woking’s passing improved as the second-half began, but Colletti and Kingham again forced saves from the Woking ‘keeper. Then on 58 minutes, Woking made the first of the substitutions that would lead to the game’s dramatic turnaround. Tyrell Ejakita and Hayden Vally joining the action, with Kigozi playing more off the righthand side, where he was soon threatening to cause problems.
However, Woking still found themselves doing the greater share of defensive work, and soon after Connor Thomas was relieved to see his deflection of Liam Cruthchett’s shot go wide, Hertford had the lead. On 68 minutes Colletti finally beat Zziwa. Woking’s ‘keeper could not get a strong enough punched clearance as he came out to clear Cruthchett’s corner, and Colletti was able to lob the ball over the crowded penalty area in to the unguarded net.
It looked like the game was only going one way. Colletti and Zziwa continued their personal battle, the Woking ‘keeper thwarting his opponent twice more, before Hertford doubled their lead on 28 minutes. The referee played a good advantage
whilst some Hertford players appealed for a freekick, and Titchmarsh finished neatly from Jed Warwick’s pass.
Whilst Hertford’s substitutions perhaps unnecessarily unsettled their team, Woking’s would prove to be thoroughly game changing. Luca Di Manno and Jack Owen came on on 78 minutes, Di Manno and Vally pushing forward through the middle, with Ejakita now attacking from the left. Momentum was with Woking, but when Warwick missed a chance to make it 3 – 0, what was to follow still seemed unlikely.
On 84 minutes Ampah’s pass wide found Kigozi, whose firm low cross was met at the near post by Vally, neatly side-footing in to the bottom corner. Two minutes later came almost a mirror image. Joe Scanlon playing the ball to Ejakita on the left, and his cross was met by Vally, this time getting enough on a header for it to evade May and nestle in the corner of the net.
Woking’s winner came one minute later. When Di Manno laid the ball back to Bushby twenty yards out there didn’t seem to be a lot of danger, until he transferred it on to his left foot and fired the ball in to the far top corner.
Hertford rallied well, and as the game reached 6 minutes of added time Colletti had a chance to add a final twist to the tale, but hit the ball over the bar when it fell to him 12 yards out. Kigozi and Ejakita moving wide had proved crucial, and the Hertford defenders left the pitch discussing how the crosses for the first two Woking goals had been allowed to come in to the area.
Woking: Aaron Zziwa, Connor Thomas (c), Mason Drew, Kai Baverstock (Jack Owen 78), Zackaria Rhioui (Tyrell Ejakita 58), Brian Rai (Hayden Vally 58), Pranish Gurung (Luca Di Manno 78), Frankie Bushby, Roshan Kigozi, Jojo Ampah. Unused sub: James Moore (GK).
Goals: Vally 84, 86, Bushby 87.
Hertford Town: Sonny May, Jack Heaton, Christian Swaby, Liam Cruthchett, Timmy Adewale-Banks, Fionn O’Connell (c), George Kingham, Dylan Colletti, Ben Nichols, Lucas Titchmarsh, Jed Warwick. Subs: Razzi Ahmed, Desmond Yobouet, Harry Chetwood, Harry Foot, Harry Boorer.
Goals: Colletti 68, Titchmarsh 73.
Referee: Gary Whapshott
Dorking U19 4 - 1 Woking U19
National League Alliance – Academy South Meadowbank, Mill Lane, Dorking
In the opening exchanges of the first Academy South fixture of the season Woking competed well with the hosts. Woking created chances of their own before Ollie Rawlins gave Dorking the lead on 22 minutes. Lewis Mouland had already made great saves from Rawlins and ex-Card Liam Manby, but could not prevent the Dorking opener.
Dorking soon doubled their advantage, a Rawlins shot hitting the post and going in off the unfortunate Mouland to make it 2 – 0 after 25 minutes. Woking responded well and Louis Sullivan made further saves to maintain his sides lead at half-time. Although it could have been different if Woking had been awarded a penalty for a trip on Tom Dryer.
Woking started the second-half well, before Mouland was called in to action to keep Woking in the game. On 70 minutes Woking halved the deficit, Stan Kyle heading home from close range from a corner. But they were not to complete the comeback, and on 82 minutes Ted Sullivan finished off a good Dorking move to make it 3 – 1.
With the game in added time Dorking had a fourth, Miles Straker adding a little gloss to the scoreline. Having finished just two points behind Dorking last season Woking will look to respond positively to this early setback.
Dorking: Louis Sullivan, Chris Ewen, Henry Gunay, Jay Richardson, Joel Brown, Neo Wooster (c), Mason Myles (Donny Daniels 73), Gabriel Jacks (Ted Sullivan 46), Tom Bland (Brandon Engstrom 73), Liam Manby (Jacob Todman 46), Ollie Rawlins (Miles Straker 62).
Woking: Lewis Mouland, Jack Lewis, Harrison Stevens, Charlie Sweeney, Max Goldsworthy (Jayden Smith 75), Jermaine Junior Young, Tommy Seale (c), Tom Dryer, Lucas Boxall (Harvey Brook 62), Byron Mitchell, Stanley Kyle. Unused subs: Mikey Verga (GK), Bobby Lawrence, Roshaun Cooper.
Goal: Kyle 70.
Referee: Mario Gellard.
Thursday 5th September
Abbey Rangers U21 P – P Woking U21 Suburban Football League – Premier Division Addlestone Moor, Addlestone. Match postponed due to waterlogged pitch.
Sunday 8th September
Woking Women 1 - 1 Abbey Rangers Women; Southern Region – Division One South Laithwaite Community Stadium, Kingfield, Woking
For a match report for this fixture please see the Woking FC website.
For up-to-date information on fixtures please refer to the Woking Football Club Academy twitter page, and the Woking Football Club Women’s twitter page.
Loan (Dual Registered Players) watch: Tuesday 3rd September
Ben Mitchell, Forward, 3rd year - Knaphill: Played the full game, and scored the second goal, dribbling from the half-way line before shooting in to the bottom corner from the edge of the area, in the 3 - 0 victory over Sandhurst Town in the Combined Counties Premier Division South.
Friday 6th September
Ollie Mason, Centre Midfield, 3rd year – Ascot United: Played the first 61 minutes (going off when it was 4 – 0), of the 5 – 0 victory over Merstham in the Isuzu FA Trophy First Qualifying Round.
Saturday 7th September
Lui Edwards, Forward, – Westfield: Played the first 64 minutes of the 4 – 0 victory over Metropolitan Police in the Isuzu FA Trophy First Qualifying Round.
Ben Mitchell, Forward, 3rd year - Knaphill: Played the full game in the 0 – 1 defeat at Redhill in the Combined Counties Premier Division South.
ACADeMY
The Woking FC Academy has been operating in its current format for over a decade with the aim of helping talented young footballers make progress into the club's first team set up or in their sporting careers whilst continuing with their academic studies.
For the 2024/25 season, the youth and academy setup runs in three stages; a pre-academy for six to nine-year-olds, a youth academy for nine to 16-year-olds, and a full-time academy for talented young players above the age of 16, including an education plan.
The Academy works with the Football Club's partner charitable and community organisation, Cardinals in the Community (CITC).
Notable academy graduates in recent history include Woking legends Craig Ross and Joe McNerney, Wrexham's Ollie Palmer, and exChelsea and now-Reading's Jayden Wareham.
PRE-ACADEMY
The Pre-Academy is for the very youngest players, covering U7s, U8s and U9s. Meeting once a week, players train and learn in a fun and friendly environment under the watchful eye of our coaches. Players that show real talent have the opportunity to progress to Woking FC Academy Youth.
The Pre-Academy trains at The Winston Churchill School in Woking, Thursdays, 17:00 - 18:00.
YOUTH ACADEMY
Starting with U9s and progressing through the age groups right up to U16s, players train with our Academy coaches and have the opportunity to play competitively in the Junior Premier League. Training is held twice weekly at CITC’s sports hub, within the grounds of Woking College, and matches are played on Saturdays. At this level, players are able to continue playing for their grassroots clubs.
As with the main Academy, players receive a progress report twice per season, which helps identify areas of their game to work on and improve. U16s players are assessed throughout the season with a view to being invited to join Woking FC Academy.
WOKING FC ACADEMY
Woking FC Academy is a National League licensed academy. We aim to develop each and every player to reach their full potential, instilling ambition and a professional attitude. We work as closely as possible to Category 3 Academy standards, creating a professional environment in which players thrive.
Players train 5-6 hours per week at CITC’s sports hub. Their development is supported by video analysis of training and matches, group workshops and strength and conditioning sessions. One-to-one reviews are held twice every season, along with player reports so that both the coaching staff and the players themselves have a clear focus on individual development.
Woking FC Academy plays competitive matches in the U18 Isthmian League, U19 National League and also have the opportunity to play in U23 fixtures. Players in our Elite Development Plan (EDP) compete in the Tactic League and National B League. Cup competitions are a feature of the fixture calendar. Pre-season training includes friendlies and there are opportunities to travel abroad for football tours and tournaments, including the Gothia Cup.
Our football timetable is planned in conjunction with players’ education. Academy players can
choose to attend Woking College or focus on gaining the NCFE Level 3 Extended Diploma in Sport, which is delivered by SCL Education at Westfield FC. Players on the EDP pathway study towards the NCFE Level 3 Extended Diploma in Sport (equivalent to 3 A levels) with SCL.
AGE GROUP COMPETITIONS
Under 23s - Second and third years (and progressing first years)
Play in: Suburban Football League - Premier Division
Home games: Knaphill FC, Thursdays, 19:30
Under 19s - Second and third years (and progressing first years)
National League U19 Alliance - Academy South Division
Home games: Westfield FC, weekdays, daytime
Under 19B - predominantly U17s - first years
National League U19 Alliance - Division E Woking College, weekdays, daytime
Under 18s - predominantly U17s - first years
Pitching In Isthmian Football League - Youth West Division
Knaphill FC, Thursdays, 19:30
Players will also have the chance to represent the academy in the prestigious FA Youth Cup.
WoMeN'S RePoRT
CARD'S HELD TO GOALLESS DRAW AT WIMBORNE TOWN
Wimborne FC Women 0 - 0 Woking FC Women
Sunday 1 September 2024 14:00 KO
Wimborne Town FC Stadium
The rain began pouring down just as the whistle blew to kick off what turned out to be a tightly contested match between Wimborne Town FC Women and Woking FC Women. Both teams showcased determination and grit, but ultimately, it was a day of missed opportunities, especially for Woking FC Women, who will feel they could have walked away with more than just a point.
FIRST HALF HIGHLIGHTS
Woking FC Women started the match strongly, immediately putting pressure on Wimborne Town FC's defense. Within the first 10 minutes, Woking earned two corners, setting the tone for their aggressive approach. The first of these led to a brilliant chance for Gaby Hobday, who connected with a left-footed volley after Beth Anders skillfully brought down the ball and laid it off. Hobday’s shot was on target, heading for the top left corner, but the Wimborne Town FC Women’s goalkeeper made an exceptional full-stretch diving save. The subsequent corner saw Laura Mitchell try her luck with a curling right-footed effort from outside the box, aiming for the far right-hand corner, but once again, the Wimborne Town keeper was equal to the task.
Wimborne Town FC Women had their own moment of threat in the 25th minute. A swift counter-attack saw their right winger cut inside and then outside before unleashing a powerful right-footed shot. However, Woking FC Women’s goalkeeper, Amy Jenkins, produced a stunning save, pushing the ball onto the right-hand upright and out for a corner.
The first half was marred by an unfortunate incident in the 38th minute when Woking FC Women’s Maddison Eggleton fell awkwardly while contesting an aerial duel. She required immediate medical attention and was forced to leave the field. The club later confirmed that Eggleton has suffered a broken fibula and everyone at Woking FC Women wishes her a speedy and full recovery.
The remainder of the first half was evenly contested in the midfield, with neither side managing to maintain possession for extended periods. The half-time whistle blew with the scoreline still goalless.
HALFTIME: 0-0
SECOND HALF HIGHLIGHTS
Wimborne Town FC Women began the second half with renewed energy, applying sustained pressure in Woking’s defensive third for the first five minutes. Despite their dominance, they could only muster one shot from distance, comfortably held by Amy Jenkins.
The best chances of the match, however, fell to Woking FC Women. In the 52nd minute, Gaby Hobday picked up the ball 40 yards from goal and drove towards the box, but her left-footed shot drifted wide of the far right-hand post. Fifteen minutes later, Hobday found herself one-onone with the Wimborne Town goalkeeper after receiving a perfectly weighted through ball. Unfortunately, her left-footed attempt rolled just wide of the left-hand upright.
The 71st minute saw another golden opportunity for Woking FC Women. Louise Curr, played in by Alicia Christie, found herself in a one-on-one situation with the Wimborne Town keeper. The keeper, however, stood her ground and made a crucial block with a strong left hand, denying Curr near the penalty spot. In the final 15 minutes, Woking FC Women piled on the pressure, dominating possession and creating numerous chances. They won five corners in the last 10 minutes alone, with shots from Gaby Hobday, Bryony Gibbs, and Fran Cotter either blocked or placed wide. Despite their relentless efforts, the breakthrough never came.
The match ended in a goalless draw, reflecting the competitive nature of both sides. Wimborne Town FC Women, in just their third year of existence, proved to be a well-organised and structured opponent, while Woking FC Women will rue their missed opportunities.
NEXT MATCH
We are excited to announce that our first home game of 2024/25 season will be played at the Laithwaite Community Stadium. Admission is free and we want to fill our stadium, so come on down and cheer on the team in their first home game of the season.
Woking FC Women v Abbey Park Rangers
Sunday 8 September 2024 15:00 KICK OFF Laithwaite Community Stadium
