Author: Stephen Howson

Your Voice Heard: Expansion Votes & Club Updates

8 April 2024
Stephen Howson
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Categories: News

Dear Stretford Paddock FC Family,

First and foremost, a massive thank you to everyone who participated in our recent voting on the proposed expansions of our club. Your engagement and enthusiasm are what make Stretford Paddock FC the vibrant and growing community it is today. Here are the results and what they mean for our future:

Voting Results Are In!

  • U16 Side Introduction: An overwhelming 97.16% of you voted in favor. We’re moving forward with welcoming both new U16 sides to our club!
  • U18 Side Introduction: With 97.74% approval, we’re excited to start planning for the inclusion of an U18 side.
  • Reintroducing a Reserve Side: 93.73% support means we’ll also focus on bringing back a reserve side to strengthen our player pathway.

Your support for these initiatives clearly demonstrates our collective commitment to nurturing young talent and providing a complete progression pathway from youth to adult levels.

Addressing Your Questions & Suggestions:

There were over 100 comments on the vote from various members, and a lot of those covered the same topics, so I will answer as best I can below;

Veterans Team & Club App: A few comments had asked about the possibility of introducing a veterans team for former players. I think a strong vets side would be the cherry on the top of a fully functional club, and demonstrate the strength of community. But It is not a focus, right now. Also, progress on our club app is a topic close to all of us, it was ready, and then the update to Twitter/X really destroyed the progress. As it stands, we are at a pause and I don’t have anything more concrete I can update. This needs addressing.

Permanent Home: We’re in active discussions regarding a permanent home for our teams and will share more detailed updates as soon as we have them, it is a long-term goal, and would alleviate an enormous chunk of facility issues, but it’s extremely expensive and we need government, council and grant help. Wait out on this.

Live Streaming Games: The idea of live-streaming games has been something we’ve wanted since our first season. The new Veo camera (once it arrives) promises this facility, it needs testing, but it supposedly can be done. There may be some commercial options we can explore with regard to the live streams. Stay tuned!

Kit/Sponsor Update: Your feedback on kits and sponsors has been invaluable. In the coming weeks, we will present options for our kit manufacturer and sponsor for the next season. Your vote will again play a crucial role.

Virtual/Physical AGM: Plans for a virtual and/or physical AGM are in the works, aiming to bring our global supporter base closer together. It is my intention for us to have this summer’s AGM live for all members to join in, and to ask questions.

Finances: There were concerns amongst the comments in the last vote that there may be a substantial cost to running the additional junior sides. On the contrary, the additional teams actually provide additional revenue to the club through subs. There’s also intangibles that are difficult to project. Such as each new squad of juniors will bring with them family members who might purchase a shirt, or hoodie, or become a member, or share and comment on the videos, which all leads to further growth for the club. Financial projections for next season will be shared at the AGM.

What’s Next?

Upcoming Votes: Your input is essential. Keep an eye out for upcoming votes on our kit manufacturer, kit sponsor for next season, and options for live broadcasting. Your voice will guide these critical decisions as we continue to grow and evolve.

Closing Thoughts:

The unity and passion within our club are stronger than ever. Together, we’re not just building teams; we’re crafting a legacy. As we embark on these exciting expansions, remember that every player, every member, and every vote shapes the future of Stretford Paddock FC.

Here’s to our next steps together—onwards and upwards, Up the Paddock!

Warm regards,

Ste

Stretford Paddock 2022/23 Player of the Year Awards

13 August 2023
Stephen Howson
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Categories: News

 

 

At Stretford Paddock FC, we believe in celebrating not just the victories on the field, but also the dedication, teamwork, and exceptional contributions that define our players. Last night’s Player of the Year Awards ceremony was an evening filled with camaraderie, applause, and a strong sense of community. As we reflect on the 2022/23 season, let’s delve into the inspiring stories of the winners who have left an indelible mark on our football journey over the past season.

Goal Of The Season – Dom Molloy’s Sensational Strike

Last season’s standout goal came courtesy of Dom Molloy, whose sensational 40-yard strike against West Didsbury & Chorlton in the final game left spectators in awe. This moment of brilliance showcased Dom’s remarkable eye for the spectacular, securing him the Goal of the Season award.

 

Joe Coleman: The Epitome of Club Spirit

Joe Coleman embodies the true spirit of Stretford Paddock FC, playing in every team, from the first team to the U21s. His unwavering commitment, positive attitude, and leadership, especially within the U21s, have earned him the Clubman of the Year award. Joe’s attitude and dedication symbolises the heart and soul of our club.

U21 Phenom: Joe Coleman Strikes Again

Joe Coleman’s impact extended to the U21 category, where he was recognised as the U21 Players Player of the Year. His versatility, camaraderie, and exceptional performances made him a standout among his peers. Manager Nathan Greenhalgh selected Stefan Koci as a very deserving U21 Player of the Year.

 

Rising Star: Mikey Burke’s Triumph

Mikey Burke’s name echoed through the awards ceremony, highlighting his incredible potential. Mikey clinched the Top Assister award by a single assist, eating winger Ronaldo Brown to the award, showcasing his playmaking abilities. His consistent performances also earned him the Young Player of the Year title, reflecting his growth performances.

Players’ Favorites: Reserves and First Team

In the Reserve side awards, Joe Coleman continued to shine, adding Reserve Player of the Year to his haul of accolades. Sean Colbert’s excellence and influence among his teammates saw him a nominated as deserving recipient of the Reserve Players Player of the Year award.

Among the first team, Joao De Andrade’s dedication, professionalism and consistency were recognised as he clinched the Players Player of the Year title, narrowly beating Captain James Oatt by a single vote.

Golden Boot and Top Assister: The Pinnacle of Performance

Tom Jones’s goal-scoring prowess earned him the Golden Boot award narrowly holding out to fend off a late surge from Ryan Katumba, while Mikey Burke’s assist record secured him the Top Assister title, just edging out Ronaldo Brown by a single assist.

Special Awards

The “Always Late but Worth the Wait” award playfully acknowledged Kayode Adewale’s habit of being fashionably late, while the “Best Actor” award was presented to Joao de Andrade, paying tribute to his theatrical on-field flair.

The Paddock Medal: Honouring Exceptional Commitment

The Paddock Medal is a reflection of our deep appreciation for individuals who exhibit exceptional dedication, selflessness, and an unwavering commitment to our club’s values. It goes beyond athletic achievements, shining a light on those who truly embody the essence of what it means to be a part of the Stretford Paddock family.

Recognising Remarkable Individuals:

  1. Richie Adjei – The Long-Distance Devotee: Richie Adjei’s commitment to Stretford Paddock FC knows no bounds. Not only has he played across all levels of our club, but he also goes the extra mile – quite literally. Travelling all the way from Leeds to attend training and games showcases his profound dedication. Richie’s journey is a testament to the lengths he’s willing to go to support our club, and his commitment is duly recognised with a Paddock Medal.
  2. Charles Frapwell – Leading Through Adversity: Charles Frapwell’s story exemplifies the power of stepping up when it matters most. A young reserve player, he took on the mantle of managing the team for the final games of the season, showcasing immense leadership and determination. Charles’s willingness to embrace challenges head-on and lead the team in a time of need embodies the qualities we hold dear at Stretford Paddock FC.
  3. Lewis Jeng – Epitome of Dedication: The heart and soul of a club often lie beyond the pitch, and in this case, it extends to Lewis Jeng. Lewis initially joined our club as an intern, eager to learn about cameras and filming. His transformation from intern to club producer is a testament to his dedication and commitment. Honourable mention to his mother, Clare, who’s tireless support and contributions have been invaluable. Their shared commitment to Stretford Paddock FC’s success is truly inspiring and deserving of the Paddock Medal.

Above and Beyond: Fostering a Resilient Community:

The Paddock Medal isn’t just an award; it’s a reflection of the values we hold dear as a community. It stands as a reminder that our club is more than just a football team; it’s a family of individuals who exemplify dedication, resilience, and selflessness.

As we celebrate the winners of this year’s Paddock Medal, we extend our deepest gratitude for their contributions, both seen and unseen. Their actions go beyond the ordinary, reminding us all that the heart of Stretford Paddock FC is made up of individuals who embody our shared values and continue to shape the spirit of our community.

Stretford Paddock FC Player Of The Year – James Oatt

The crowning moment of the night was the announcement of James Oatt as the Stretford Paddock FC Player of the Year. As our club captain, James has exemplified leadership on and off the pitch, consistently delivering quality performances and really embodying the role of club captain. James’ performances were of an extremely high level, week in, week out and thoroughly earned this season’s award by becoming an unquestionably dependent player and a huge asset to the side.

The 2022/23 season was a journey of triumphs, unity, and growth. We extend our heartfelt congratulations to all the winners who have left an indelible mark on our club. Your achievements inspire us, and we look forward to a new season filled with even more memorable moments on and off the field.

RESULTS: Members Vote – Sponsorship Ethics

11 August 2023
Stephen Howson
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Categories: News

Dear Stretford Paddock FC Supporters,

At Stretford Paddock Football Club, we take immense pride in being more than just a football team; we are a passionate community united by a shared love for the game and a commitment to being a club with clear values. Recently, we embarked on a journey that exemplifies the heart of our club – one that values transparency, inclusivity, and the power of collective decision-making.

Shaping Our Path Through Democracy

In a resounding display of democratic unity, our club members decisively voiced their opinions on two pivotal matters that shape the future of Stretford Paddock FC. With a staggering 79.43% majority, our members voted to introduce a rule in our constitution that prohibits sponsorships deemed unethical, specifically, those related to alcohol and gambling. This demonstrates our unwavering commitment to nurturing a responsible football community that our aspiring players can look up to.

In an even more remarkable testament to our shared vision, 91.57% of our members welcomed TenTrade as our official front-of-shirt sponsor for the upcoming 2023/2024 season. This partnership is not just about business; it symbolizes the fusion of sportsmanship and education, aligning perfectly with our commitment to excellence, growth, and community engagement.

A Football Club Shaped by You

Our members are not just spectators; they are owners, decision-makers, and builders of our club’s identity. This partnership with TenTrade and the resounding support for ethical sponsorship are tangible manifestations of the democratic ethos that underscores our community. Together, we are creating a football club that mirrors our collective values, resonates with our shared ambitions, and reflects the inclusive spirit that sets us apart.

Georgios Rasheed Altoun, Director of TenTrade, expressed his enthusiasm for the partnership, stating, “We are delighted to announce our new sponsorship deal with Stretford Paddock Football Club. This is part of our ongoing efforts to promote trading and education through sports. Let’s shake hands and wish Stretford Paddock a good season ahead and look forward to working together for the exhibition of good sportsmanship.”

As we gear up for the 2023/2024 season with TenTrade as our proud partner, we celebrate a significant milestone in our journey – a testament to the power of collaboration, growth, and unity. Our gratitude knows no bounds as we extend a hearty thank you to our members, supporters, and partners for making this possible.

Join us in embracing this remarkable chapter in our history. Let’s kick off the season with the pride of a community that shapes its destiny, both on and off the field.

Up the Paddock!

REPORT: TEK United 2-3 Stretford Paddock

6 August 2023
Stephen Howson
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Categories: News, Report

Stretford Paddock FC embarked on their inaugural international fixture on a memorable Saturday, August 5th, 2023, making their way to Dublin, Ireland to face off against TEK United. The match garnered immense support, with approximately 200 passionate fans in attendance, including The Paddock Ultras, Howson’s Red & White Army, and the Stretford Paddock FC Irish Supporters Club, whose flags proudly waved together, creating a vibrant atmosphere.

Initially scheduled at TEK United’s ground, Rockford Park, the match faced uncertainty due to heavy overnight rainfall, rendering the pitch unplayable after an early inspection. However, a new venue was swiftly arranged at Soldier and Sailors Park, just a short distance away. Miraculously, the pitch there remained untouched by the weather and was in pristine condition for the game.

 

The match kicked off shortly after 3pm, and despite TEK United being completely unknown to Paddock, the opening minutes were cautious as our team assessed the level of opposition before them. TEK United showcased their skill and pace, leaving no room for complacency. An early free-kick opportunity outside the box tested Paddock’s defence, with the TEK player hitting the post, much to the relief of our lads.

17 minutes into the game Kieron Molloy pulled up with a hamstring injury, just days after his brother had the same problem in the victory over West Didsbury & Chorlton. An injury which might keep him out for a few weeks – we’ll have to see how he goes. Two goals in two could be missed at the weekend. He was replaced by Joao on the left wing.

Shortly after that it didn’t take long for Paddock to assert their dominance and Joao to make an impact. A well-executed long throw from Omar, starting deep within his own half, created space behind the TEK defence, allowing Joao to deliver a perfect ball into the area for Ryan Katumba to calmly slot home, granting us an early advantage.

Moments later, Paddock further solidified their lead when Oattsy, the captain, skillfully converted a corner, creating a beautiful curling shot that found the far top corner of the net. The goal might have appeared unintentional to some, but Oattsy reckons otherwise – let us know what you think when the highlights are out!

With a 2-0 lead, Paddock began to play with more confidence and control, with some confident possession, mainly via Nosa and Kayode in midfield. Nosa’s brilliant footwork set up Callum for the third goal, as he broke through the offside trap and finished with a beautiful first-time finish. The first half ended with a flurry of shots that failed to find the target, but Paddock firmly in control, leading 3-0.

The second half brought a momentary lapse in concentration for Paddock, leading to two goals for TEK United, reminding the lads that no game can be taken for granted. Reenergized and refocused, Paddock regained their composure and reverted to their usual aggressive dominate style, delivering a captivating display of quick passes, off-the-ball runs, and well-timed attacks.

The match could have seen more goals for Paddock, particularly from the right side, where Callum built on his lethal first half performance and repeatedly found himself in acres of space and looking the most likely source of a goal. The TEK United keeper’s impressive saves kept his team in contention. As the game neared its conclusion, with TEK United players visibly fatigued, McKenna, unfortunately, sustained a hamstring injury, leading to captain James Oatt taking on the goalkeeper role for the remaining minutes. The third time he’s done this, and he’s never conceded!

Adam McKola made his erm, shortly awaited, debut on the 85th minute and had the chance to put the game to bed in the 89th minute – but fluffed his lines! Must see in the highlights!


The final whistle blew, and Stretford Paddock emerged triumphant with a 3-2 victory. The match proved to be a resounding success, showcasing a thrilling encounter and a positive result for Paddock. The warm welcome and hospitality extended by TEK United and Brian from the Irish Supporters Club made the entire experience even more memorable, leaving us with much to be thankful for.

 

Members Input Required! Sponsorship Ethics!

4 August 2023
Stephen Howson
No comments
Categories: News

Your voice matters! As a fan-owned club, we believe in transparency and inclusivity, involving our valued members in critical decisions that shape the future of Stretford Paddock FC. Today, we are excited to share a significant matter that requires your active participation.

Ethical Sponsorship: Our Commitment to Values

Stretford Paddock FC has always stood for more than just football. We are a community, a family bound by shared values and a passion for the beautiful game. As we progress on our journey, we aim to uphold these values in every aspect of our club, including our sponsorships.

We are considering introducing a rule in our constitution that prohibits sponsorships from companies involved in certain industries, specifically alcohol and gambling. This decision aligns with our vision of fostering a positive and responsible football community, where our aspiring young players are inspired by sponsors who embody integrity, sportsmanship, and community spirit.

Unity and Inclusivity: One Club, One Family

At Stretford Paddock FC, we celebrate unity and inclusivity. We envision a club where every member, from our esteemed first team to our cherished junior academy, feels a strong sense of belonging. One step towards achieving this unity is having the same kit across all players, symbolizing that we are “one club, one family.”

Respecting Diverse Beliefs: A Welcoming Space for All

We value the diversity of beliefs and backgrounds among our fans and players. It is essential to create a welcoming space where everyone feels comfortable and represented. By avoiding sponsorships that might make some individuals uncomfortable, such as those related to alcohol and gambling, we aim to maintain Stretford Paddock FC as an inclusive and diverse football family.

A Significant Investment: Unlocking Our Potential

We are thrilled to share that we have received an anonymous sponsorship proposal (sponsor is revealed to members via email) that presents a significant investment opportunity for our club. If approved, this sponsorship could cover a year’s costs for ground hire not only for our first team but also for our reserves and U21s. The financial support offered would be instrumental in realizing our ambitions, nurturing our junior players, and strengthening our teams.

Your Voice Matters: Cast Your Vote

Your participation is essential in shaping the future of Stretford Paddock FC. In the coming days, you will receive an email containing two crucial questions that require your vote:

  1. Should Stretford Paddock FC introduce a rule in the constitution prohibiting sponsorships deemed unethical, specifically those related to alcohol and gambling?
  2. Are we happy to pass the proposed anonymous sponsor as next season’s main sponsor, to be printed on the front of our shirts?

Please take a moment to check your emails and cast your vote. We value each member’s opinion and are committed to ensuring that your voice is heard and respected. You will have 7 days to cast your vote.

Thank you for your unwavering support and dedication to Stretford Paddock FC. Together, let’s continue building a football club that we can all be proud of—one that embodies our shared values and embraces its community.

Up the Paddock!

Ashley Williams becomes Sporting Director

4 May 2023
Stephen Howson
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Categories: News

Stretford Paddock FC Welcomes Ashley Williams as Sporting Director and Shares His Vision for the Club

Stretford Paddock FC is thrilled to announce the appointment of Ashley Williams as the club’s new Sporting Director. Williams, an accomplished footballer with extensive experience on the field, including serving as the Captain of the Welsh national team, is eager to share his knowledge and expertise with the players and staff of Stretford Paddock FC.

Williams shared his enthusiasm for joining the club and outlined his responsibilities in his new role:

“I feel like there’s a role I can play in helping out with the club. The main thing that excites me is being on the pitch with the players and helping them develop, building contacts with other football clubs, and helping players progress up the pyramid.”

He further expressed his admiration for the foundation that has already been built by the club:

As a club, we’ve got exciting plans ahead, and I’m looking forward to joining in with what Ste has already built with hard work.

Regarding player recruitment, Williams highlighted the importance of certain qualities in potential players:

I think the first thing I’d be looking for in a player is, are they coachable? What direction do they want to go in? We’ll obviously be looking at ability, but it isn’t the be-all and end-all. It’s all about taking a player and improving their level.

He also emphasized the need for players who are dedicated and eager to be part of the team: “Are they receptive? Do they want to be here?”

Williams is no stranger to climbing the ranks in football, making his experience particularly valuable for Stretford Paddock FC:

“We’ve spoken a lot about this. I know exactly what it’s like going from the lower leagues to the Premier League, which is one of the reasons you wanted me to be involved in dealing with players who went through something similar to me at 17 years of age after being released from West Brom.”

With an optimistic outlook on the club’s future, Williams concluded:

“You look at some other models that have done really well, and we think we can do something similar, if not better. We shouldn’t put a timescale or expectations on it. We want to bring the whole Stretford Paddock family together, bring in new additions, and involve the community. It’s doable because it’s been done. Teams have progressed through the leagues very quickly, and it’s not easy. But with our resources and facilities, I don’t see why we can’t go on and do something very good.”

Stretford Paddock FC are confident that Ashley Williams’ vision, passion, and experience will contribute significantly to the club’s ongoing success. The club is currently inviting interested players to join the team. If you would like to be a part of this exciting journey, please fill out >>> THIS CONTACT FORM <<< to or head over to the  PLAY FOR US page on this website, to express your interest

New Sponsorship Announcement

1 July 2022
Stephen Howson
No comments
Categories: News, Official

Stretford Paddock FC and OneFootball announced today that the companies have entered into a strategic media partnership. With technology and social media playing an increasingly critical role in every aspect of sports, we recognize the need to expand the club’s global reach. This partnership will help us tap into the global audience that OneFootball possesses and also help amplify the reach of OneFootball in the UK market.

The agreement brings together the content creating expertise of Stretford Paddock FC and the social media influence of OneFootball. Stretford Paddock FC is a grassroots football team playing in the Cheshire League out of Manchester, and OneFootball are a German-based football media company. Their app features live-scores, statistics and news from 200 leagues in 12 different languages with over 100 million monthly users worldwide.

“This strategic partnership with OneFootball will allow us continue to build our global community, offering a direct communication channel to fans and the brands that we work with.” said Stephen Howson, Manager of Stretford Paddock FC. He added, “This alliance that begins today will undoubtedly bring, in the short term, new and creative additional releases for all fans of Stretford Paddock FC in a season that sees us step into the next level of English football.”

OneFootball will also host editorial content published on the Stretford Paddock FC, such as the most recent news, documentaries and matchday updates. Stretford Paddock FC news will appear as official content in a user’s stream and will be identified by the club’s logo.

Amanda Allegrini, Global Influencer Marketing Lead at OneFootball, said: “In just two seasons, Stretford Paddock F.C. has established its unique vision as a fan-first football club, gaining a strong foothold not just in Manchester but across the UK. OneFootball and Stretford Paddock F.C. share a common value in being fan-focused, and this partnership allows us to get even closer to those supporters and deliver worldclass content to form long-lasting relationships with them. We are extremely excited to welcome Stretford Paddock F.C. to the OneFootball family and look forward to delivering their content to fans around the world.”

You can check out OneFootball or download the app here; https://tinyurl.com/yyc3dw4c

New Home Kit Officially Launched!

1 July 2022
Stephen Howson
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Categories: News, Official

We are delighted to unveil our latest home-shirt design, the second of our 4-year partnership with Puma and it’s another cracker! We chose the upward-moving chevron design as we feel it fits what the club has been doing in our short history, everything moving onward!

You will notice we have a new sponsor on the front of the shirt, One Football are a media partner with a brilliant football-news app where you’re able to keep up to with all the latest news, scores and stats from all the professional league’s around the world. You’ll soon be seeing Stretford Paddock content on the app alongside their other creators, some clubs you might have heard of – Real Madrid, Juventus etc. More on One Football later today.

 

As some of you may be aware, we haven’t actually produced a single shirt that hasn’t sold out. So do make sure to get yours as soon as they go on sale, or you might miss out. We’ve got a good amount of stock, but with having over 1,000 fan owners of the club – we might sell a LOT more than we anticipate! Be quick!

We’ve chosen tomorrow’s pre-season friendly with Hashtag United as the first run out for the new kit. If you’re in the Essex area, entry is free and kick off is 4pm – if you’re unable to attend, it’s still possible to watch as Hashtag are live streaming the game on their channel for everyone to see.

The shirt goes on sale to the public on the 29th of July, the day before our first league game in the Cheshire League, but members will be able to buy from the 15th of July – just another reason to get involved with the club’s fan ownership scheme – find out more below.

We are back… sort of!

22 June 2020
Stephen Howson
No comments
Categories: News

Stretford Paddock FC returned to training on Thursday evening after exactly days 100 since our last training session. We are working in socially distanced pods of 5 with a coach each. A lot has happened since our last session back in March, it goes without saying. The big thing is our acceptance to the Lancashire & Cheshire league. A fine local league with a good pedigree of both teams, and players. We await our confirmation of division, but considering our ambitions, I do hope it’s one of the higher divisions. I want that test.

Speaking of a test! Sunday evening we held a coaches meeting, where we planned out the next six weeks of training. That six week block culminates in a friendly with Dukinfield Town, the team currently top of the Manchester Premier Division. Or were, before, you know. That’s a right test. It’s probably a right kicking, but honestly, I want it. I want to see how far off we are going to be. As where they are, we want to be. That’s pencilled in for Thursday 30th of July.

That date, of course relies on the government and the FA giving us the nod that contact is allowed and games can be played. But we need to have something to work towards, and that is it. Immediately after the friendly we’ve also pencilled in our second trial. The location is to be confirmed, but we’d like to ideally hold it on the 1st of August. The trial will be limited to 100 places – if you want to come along, please fill out the form on the following link – http://eepurl.com/g2WIGL – please ensure you fill out the experience section in detail, as there’s over 200 currently on the waiting list. We’ll be selecting based on experience and calling some on the list to verify their credentials.

In lockdown we’ve also interviewed and appointed several staff members; Nairobi, as reserve manager, Pete as a scout, Matt as a reserve coach, Sam Keane as a sports scientist, Josh as a goalkeeping coach and Janine to look after the merch and branding. So a warm welcome to all of those who have joined. 

We still have a couple of vacancies. If anyone is interested in taking charge of a 3rds or a position as welfare officer, please get in touch, we also require a kitman, so please get in touch if you’d like more information for any of those roles or the others available at the club – hello@stretfordpaddockfc.com

We have had several enquiries for sponsorships that we’ve had to turn away. We are looking for club partners that are able to help us with opportunities, access or help with the logistics of running the club. There are still availabilities to work with the club commercially, but we are being selective about who we work with. If you’d like more information email – sponsorship@stretfordpaddockfc.com

We are currently wrapping up our final episode of Stephen Howson; Football Manager for it’s first season, we’ve got daily content planned starting very soon. We’re just getting it filmed and edited.

Feels a little like progress.

Ste

A football club – what’s all this about, then?

11 June 2020
Stephen Howson
1 Comment
Categories: News, Opinion

Honestly, can’t really say where this idea REALLY started. Was it when we first had a run out as an XI as Full Time Devils, in the Fan League Cup? Could be. Was it maybe when we started having regular football competitions as Studio 68? Could be that, too. I guess. Was it when we were off our nut in Australia getting photos off the lads of the Stretford Paddock kits they just picked up? Probably that, too, yeh…

Trying to pin down the point where we decided to create a football team that plays XI a side is harder than I thought. Not saying who, but in August last year, I got a text off someone asking be interested in owning a football club.

Would you want to own a non league football club? Random I know but always thought eventually would like to give something back and be involved

text message – august 2019

Nice one. Now I’m awake at night wondering what that’d be like. As if I haven’t got enough going on. That was August. We had already been playing 5 a side tournaments, trying to find regular competition at Powerleague and now we, as in the fan channel have a kit! It’s a good one too. That badge was made to be on a shirt, it’s amazing. A combination of all those things swilling round my head and the deep depression that was setting in around early December that United were well shit I think sparked something. We had a few Patreon meet ups. We floated the idea around. Commenters were asking for it – so we did it. We committed to making a team.

Where are we gonna play? No idea.
What league are we going to be in? Dunno.

But let’s see if there’s enough people interested in, and good enough for, having a Saturday team. It’s got to be a Saturday team, too. It can’t be a Sunday League side. I’ll explain why… We’d made ‘real football’ content. Vlogged our 5-a-side tournaments, and the meet ups. Enjoyed it, doing those certainly added to the lure of making our own permanent side, as did visiting Spencer and Hashtag United in 2018.

But a Sunday League side goes, well it goes nowhere. It’s a one-and-done season. There’s no progression. You could win 150 games out of 150 – you’d win a league, and a cup or two – but that’d be it. Literally it. There’s a top league you cannot go past. There’s a level you cannot improve upon and ultimately ‘Sunday League’ as fine as a hobby, and right of passage as it is, has a certain feel to it that I just didn’t want to be, or to create with.

Saturday League, at least from a certain level (in the Manchester area) is a route from level 11 – Manchester League Premier Division – all the way to the English Premier League, THE Premier League. In truth, the pyramid has many many more levels to it than that and direct routes CAN be drawn right from level TWENTY through to the Premier League. Few places, if any, in the world have the depth of football that England can boast.

Saturday league also has the added bonus of being part of one of the greatest competitions the world has ever seen! Namely, the FA Cup. As mad as this sounds, with a lot of luck, and a few promotions, it is entirely possible to end up IN THE FA CUP. Seriously. The FA Cup runs from Level 1-10. As you know there’s different clubs introduced at different levels. If you’re a level 10 club, that means you start all the way back in <checks notes> July! There’s six rounds of qualifying prior to the ‘first round’. Few teams at this level make it to the first round proper, in fact last season, or rather this season, there were no level 10, no level 9 and only two level 8 sides made it to the first round proper, Maldon & Tiptree, who beat Leyton Orient, and Chichester City, who got a bye! So both teams made it to, and lost in the 2nd round.

So, because we’re going to make content about the birth of this football club, that story needs to be able to exist beyond a single season. It needs jeopardy. It needs a real target. Imagine we manage to take Paddock FC to the actual FA Cup – is that not INSANE?

Our targets are slightly more realistic than that. I’d like to get accepted into, and complete a full league season. Sorry, I know that’s way lamer. But it’s a grounding. There’s so much we’re going to learn, so much we’re going to fuck up, I’ll consider the successful completion of a league campaign with this team a huge milestone in the life of this football club, and we are going to build a football club. Exactly how we get to the end of the season and what we want things to look like on the other side will all be revealed in due course. But I can’t overstate the importance of us getting into he rhythm of playing games, submitting the right forms, at the right time, paying our bills, our registration fees and fielding a squad every week. It’s vital. We haven’t yet done that, so we have to prove that we are up to that challenge.

After that we can get giddy and start putting wild targets together. We’ll also hopefully know how good we are, because that’s something else we don’t know. What if we’re shit? What if we’re in a league that we just can’t handle! Brand new teams don’t generally enter the professional ranks – they’re placed by years of promotions as the squad is chiselled into competitiveness by people who know the level they are and the level they need to be. We have none of that intelligence. We have some players that have played at different levels, plenty way higher than where I expect us to go, but does that mean the team will be good? Hell no.

I’ve got a lot of work ahead of me. This will be a journey of education and self discovery as I work out how I can balance this new challenge with a young family, and with my commitments to the content I already make on YouTube. It will not be easy. It’s a lot of pressure. But I love this game (sorry Uncle Pat), and I think this journey will give me a deeper understanding of the game.

We’re building a backroom that’s honestly, a pisstake. We’ve got (or are approaching) 28 backroom staff members. TWENTY EIGHT. It’s gonna look like an NFL bench. There’s a performance advantage to what we’re building, undoubtedly, but we’re also wanting to be a showcase for what happens in football. What happens in an analysis session? We’ll show you. What happens with the data collected in the first half, at half time? We’ll show you. How do video clips guide training – yep – we’ll show you. We’ll show you exactly how we implement my playing style into this team. We’ll show you team talks. We’ll let you right in on the action.

This isn’t a fly on the wall documentary with big reactions and fights and arguments. This isn’t what I suspect a lot of the ‘YouTube’ teams will be doing. We’re going to be creating a channel that showcases the work that goes in, by dedicated individuals that are starting out on the bottom rung, as coaches, scouts, analysts, physios, sports scientists. We’ll find out exactly what they do and how they impact performance. This is going to be mega. I’m absolutely obsessed with making sure I am not the weak link in this – and even then – I very well might be. I’ve read more in the last 3 months of lockdown than I have in 3 years. I know EXACTLY how we’re going to play. My influences are as diverse as they are surprising. I’ve got some ideas that might not work at this level, but I’m going to try. This might fail, spectacularly. But, so what? I’m going to have a good time failing with some awesome people, if we do.

And if we’re successful? It’ll be a hell of a ride. Don’t miss it!

Ste

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