Hastings United are delighted to announce the return of combative midfielder Holly Carter who joins from Eastbourne Borough.
Carter who joined the club at the age of 15, made her first team debut in our first season at the age of 16, winning the SCWGFL Premier Division and went on to play 40 games for the club.
Carter who can play in numerous positions was a crowd favourite at Hastings United, at such a young age playing a key role in our midfield inspiring the next generation of The ‘U’s. She returns back and subject league clearance will be available for our game this weekend vs Steyning Town.
Holly Carter:
“I am proud to be back at Hastings United – the club that gave me my first experience of women’s football. I am grateful for the opportunity and I am ready to work hard for the team.”
Billy Wood:
“I was proud to give Holly her debut in 2021, and I am proud to see her return to the club. Holly’s last game for the club was against Brighton & Hove Albion where on the day she was the best player on the pitch. It’s great to have her back, she who knows what I expect from my team and will work hard for her teammates. A great character and her return will be hugely popular with our Academy players too!
Welcome to the September
Bulletin from Hastings United FC
We are delighted in this Bulletin to introduce News from our Under 18 and Under 23 Teams and hope this will now be a regular item in future issues.
TEAM NEWS
UNDER 23’s
The Hastings United Under-23 team, managed by Louie Hoad, has begun their 2025/26 campaign in the Southern Counties East Football League Development Central Division with a strong statement of intent. The side secured a 2-0 away victory against Bearsted U23s at the Otham Sports Ground on Tuesday, 19 August 2025, marking an ideal start to the season. Goals from Charlie Scarles and Archie Baker sealed the win, showcasing the attacking potential of the squad. Both players were instrumental in the performance, with Scarles demonstrating composure in front of goal and Baker adding energy and precision to the forward line
Under Louie Hoad’s leadership, the U23s serve a dual purpose within the club’s broader development strategy. The team acts as a pathway into first-team football, offering young talents the opportunity to gain competitive experience and prove their readiness for senior-level play. At the same time, the squad provides valuable minutes for first-team players returning from injury or needing match fitness, ensuring seamless integration and squad depth across all levels
This developmental model aligns with Hastings United’s long-term vision of nurturing homegrown talent while maintaining competitive standards across all age groups. The U23s are not only a proving ground for emerging players but also a tactical resource for the senior team, bridging the gap between youth and professional football.
With upcoming fixtures against Rusthall U23 and Tunbridge Wells U23, the team will look to build on their early momentum and continue their ascent in the league standings
UNDER 18’s
The Hastings United Under-18s, competing in the Isthmian Youth Football League South Division, are entering a pivotal transitional season under the management of Marc Gall, with coaching support from Tom Chalmers and Liam Ridgers
This campaign is marked by a strategic blend of experience and emerging talent, as the squad integrates second-year U18s, first-year U18s, and a selection of exceptionally gifted U16 players.
This approach reflects the club’s commitment to long-term player development, ensuring that younger players are exposed to competitive football early while benefiting from the mentorship and leadership of older teammates. The coaching staff is focused on creating a cohesive unit that balances physical maturity, tactical understanding, and technical skill.
The Under-18s programme at Hastings United serves as a critical stepping stone within the club’s player pathway. It prepares young athletes for progression into the U23s and ultimately the first team, while also fostering a competitive environment that mirrors senior football standards.
With a full fixture list ahead, including matches against Worthing, Chichester City, and Horsham, the team will continue to test its evolving identity and push for consistency in performance. The integration of U16s into this environment not only accelerates their development but also strengthens the club’s future prospects.
Under 18 – Liam Ridgers Under 23 – Jon Gardner
25th September away to Eastbourne Town 19.45
Remember – your season ticket gets you free entry to all the Club teams, Men’s, Women’s AND the Under 18 and Under 23 teams so why not make full use and follow all the U’s family on the field.
MENS FIRST TEAM
It’s been great to get the season up and running after what felt like a long pre-season.
Our results have been mixed and I think I have asked the lads for more consistency in our performances to give us a better chance of winning games.
We go into a tough September however it should see the return of the 4 absences, Brad, Freddy, Jama & Tom which will make the squad stronger and competition for places will be good.
I would like to thank the U’s fans for being fantastic in our start to the season and we are going to need you all to continue to get behind the team.
Lee Carey – Hastings United First Team Manager
6th September – away to Jersey Bulls (Isuzu FA Trophy)
13th September – home to Broadbridge Heath
16th September – away Sittingbourne Utd. 19.45pm
20th September – home AFC Croydon Athletic
24th September – away to Crowborough Athletic 19.45pm (Velocity Cup)
27th September – away to Three Bridges
30th September – away to Sheppey Utd. 19.45pm
WOMENS FIRST TEAM
It’s been great to start competitive fixtures this month. It’s been a mixture of results but the growth within the team has to be seen as a positive. There’s no denying that we are certainly a team in transition but with the team completely together, and bought into the changes we are receiving compliments for our more aggressive, attractive style, one that I believe will end up delivering the results we became accustomed to prior.
The atmosphere at games has been great, with the drum and signing behind the goal becoming a real favourite with the players. Your support is super important.
We look forward to the challenges facing us this month. The FA Cup match away to Eastbourne Borough is a complete free hit. Any team spending near four figures a week at this level will be a challenge and it’s more on them to deliver. Following that game we will be looking at finishing September with more points on the board, giving ourselves the best change to achieve our pre season target.
Billy Wood – Hastings united Womens Manager
7th September – away to Eastbourne Borough (FA Cup)
14th September – home to Steyning Town Community
28th September – away to Leatherhead 13.00pm
INCLUSIVE & DISABLITY TEAM
Today (31st August) saw Hastings United Inclusive and Disability team go up to Lancing to have their first four pre-season friendlies. It felt so good to get back into the season, we are still in the championship league in the Sussex FA Disability league. Ending last season fourth, so this year we are looking to do even better and hope to reach third or even better. With three new players making their season debut, our amazing goalkeeper Sam Mclauchlan, a brilliant defender/midfielder Shaun Hursey and another brilliant midfielder who is Will Carey. We have about two more new players who are hopefully going to sign so I believe we have a strong talent for this season. Training is always great.
Team Transport
We’ve started to introduce more fitness sessions during the month to help players’ stamina and speed. Plus, a more technical feel towards football, helping with their footwork and ability. Going back to today’s friendlies. We saw ourselves go away with three draws and one loss. A good start and definitely room to improve as the new season progresses. We are always looking for more friendlies so hopefully the next month will be able to see us play more football before the official season starts. As always Hastings United Inclusive and Disability, both youth and adult teams are looking for new players. If interested, please email lewis.hastingsuniteddisability@gmail.com. Throughout the whole Hastings United community, I hope the men’s first team and women’s first team have a successful season as I hope the Disability first team does also.
Lewis Willard – Head of Hastings United Youth and Adults Inclusive and Disability Team
CLUB NEWS
CHRIS TAYLOR
A very special and memorable occasion at our home game against Erith Town with the unveiling of the plaque in memory of Chris Taylor (photo shows John Wills, Hayley Clout Kerry from KSS, Amy and Sarah Millard accompanying Chris’s partner Jan.) Thanks to the many other fans who were also present for the ceremony.
In recognition of their assistance given to United fan Chris Taylor at the Chatham fixture KSS is the Club Charity for 2025/2026.
Kerry said they raised £219 on the day; –‘that’s a great amount and almost 5 sets of defibrillator pads, that’s 5 lives that could potentially be saved.’ She also said – “thank you for having us, you were all the loveliest bunch of people! We felt so welcome and really enjoyed ourselves”
The Club is also pleased to announce that the rear wall of the Cole Warren Stand where the plaque for Chris was mounted will now become the Club’s Remembrance Wall. Anyone wishing to add a plaque in memory of a loved one should contact robert.hodgson@hastingsunited.com
FUNDRAISING ALERT
We know it is only September, and in some circles, it should not yet be mentioned – but we really must tell you about our special Christmas fundraising event.
Phil & Barabara in the Programme/50:50 Pod are again organising a Christmas raffle but this year it will be bigger and better than ever. We have a new licence for the raffle which means we can sell tickets in advance, and more details will be in the October Bulletin.
Phil and Barbara will need help and please let them or the Club know if –
You can take some tickets to sell to family, friends and work colleagues
Donate items for the Christmas hamper and any other items for the raffle, such as Toiletries, household items and gifts, bottles of drink – alcoholic or non-alcoholic welcomed
Christmas hamper items such as chocolates, biscuits, tinned goods
The first prize will be £150, and many other prizes will be available.
Many thanks for your support
Features/Forthcoming Events
Saturday 27th September at the Hastings Sports & Social Club –
The Elvis Show featuring a Charity Casino night in aid of KISS and local charity the Sara Lee Trust.
Enjoy entertainment from one of the UK’s leading Elvis impersonators Trevor Dodson. Trevor is one of the UK’s leading professional Elvis Tribute Acts/Elvis Impersonators entertaining at public and private functions across the UK. Trevor is supported by the fabulous local entertainer Ritchie Lee. You can also play the Casino tables – Black Jack, Roulette and Dice (Craps) with professional dealers and even try your hand at Poker.
Tickets are £10 and include ten chips to get you started on the tables.
Supporting people affected by cancer & other life threatening illnesses in Hastings & Rother
Saving Lives when every second counts
Please help us support these two excellent Charities
REMEMBER, REMEMBER the 14th November
Yes Friday 14th November is the Club Fireworks evening
A firm favourite at the Club and this year we team up with Battle Bonfire Boys to bring you a whole new style presentation of our ever popular Fireworks evening.
Tickets for both events available from Online Ticket Seller
Hastings United are delighted to announce the retention of Freya Hollister.
Hollister goes into her second full season with The ‘U’s having played 18 times last season.
Freya Hollister:
“Excited for up coming season can’t wait to see what the team can accomplish.”
Billy Wood:
“Freya is great to have around the squad as she brings so much energy and is always a positive part of the squad. On the pitch she has really excelled and has been one of the stand out consistent performers of pre season. She is really understanding the changes we want to make and is making the team transition that much easier.”
Hastings United are delighted to announce the signing of Ruby Buss.
The former Academy striker joins up with The ‘U’s following a stint at Ashford United.
Ruby Buss:
“I’m looking forward to my first season with Hastings United Women and being pushed to my full potential, playing alongside a great bunch of women at the club who have made me feel welcome.”
Billy Wood:
“This is one I’m really delighted with, Ruby is a proper tenacious and technical player, and emphasises the Hastings grit. She’s been at the club in the Academy before and I’m so happy she has come back to be part of the senior squad. What a way to introduce herself as well with a free kick on her debut!”
Welcome to the August
Bulletin from Hastings United FC
All at the Club are excited and looking forward to the challenge for all our teams in the 2025/2026 season and we hope to see you all back again with your fantastic support.
We welcome our new U’s and the retained players and the new Management teams.
The next year will be challenging for the Club and staff as we look to renew the Pilot Field with various developments including a 3G pitch and new Stand. The strength of the Club has always been the incredible fans and local community and this year, more than ever, we need your support in highlighting the need for the new facilities.
TEAM NEWS
MENS FIRST TEAM
As we move into August everything will be in preparation for Erith Town in our first league game of the season. Slight frustration that we go into that with a couple of injuries to members of the squad and a holiday that was pre booked but we are monitoring the squad and could be 1 or 2 late additions. Looking back at July and our pre-season games there have been positives and key areas where we need to improve. If you ask any manager that is what pre-season is like every year. Both management team and the lads are really looking forward to kicking off the 25/26 campaign in front of the Hastings faithful. COYU
Lee Carey – Hastings United First Team Manager
9th August – home to Erith Town
13th August – home to Eastbourne Town 19.45pm
23rd August – match v Hassocks FC is postponed due to cup competition
25th August – away to Crowborough
30th August – away to Sheppey United
WOMENS FIRST TEAM
It’s been a really positive month for our Women’s team. Training has been excellent, and the consistency in player availability has made a real difference. Having the squad together regularly has allowed us to clearly set out our expectations and style of play, and it’s starting to pay off. We’ve had two friendlies so far, against Ashford Town and Newhaven, and both brought plenty of positives. We’re seeing more confidence on the ball and more aggression off it. The Newhaven game was a great example, with goals coming from the way we’re now set up both in and out of possession. When I took the job, I was told we’d need 8–9 new players just to be competitive. Instead, we’ve backed the talent already here, added a couple of smart signings (with maybe one or two more to come), and trusted that this group can step up. Most importantly, the atmosphere in training and among the staff and players is the best I’ve experienced here. That energy and belief will go a long way this season. We’d love to see as many of you as possible down at The Pilot Field for all our home games. Your support means everything.
Billy Wood – Hastings United Women’s Team Manager
17th August – home to Sevenoaks Town
24th August – home to Ashmount Leigh
31st August – away to Bognor Regis Town
INCLUSIVE & DISABILITY TEAM
The Inclusive and Disability team have had very successful training sets. We’ve looked into a more technical feel with better footwork which has progressed massively. Although friendlies haven’t happened during off season we are in talks with teams like Folkstone, Seaford and hopefully 1066 in the next few months to arrange 11 a side friendlies and hopefully 1066 will welcome us back to allow our youth players some experience in match game scenarios as well. We are in our third season in the championship in the Sussex FA disability league. With the talent we have and the new talent coming in, I am confident, after seeing these players play that we could push for a higher finish in the table. My objective throughout the season is to get the name Hastings United Inclusive and Disability team out and really showcase the amazing brilliance this team can accomplish. I am so proud of this team, that I am looking forward to another season with these amazing players and seeing them play to their best, which I know they can do. Up the ‘U’s
Lewis Willard – Head of Hastings United Youth and Adults Inclusive and Disability Team
WALKING FOOTBALL TEAM
The new season for our Walking Football teams starts in September. Hastings will be fielding two teams in the Southern Combination League (East) and a third team in the Over 60s League. The pre-season got off to a great start for the 060s with a 3-1 win away to Bexhill Senior Side. Super striker David Tasker – known to his squad as Beaky – notched a second half hat-trick to get his eye in for the new season. And for the third year running The Beakster was the Club’s Golden Boot with a splendid tally of 16 goals for last season. He picked up his Trophy at our awards night in the Social Club and rubbed shoulders with the other winners: Our Over 60s team was presented with their League runners up trophies. Newcomer of the Year was Richard Leech who’s proving to be a formidable right back in the Hornets’ side. Paul Reardon – the H’s Player-Manager was named Clubman of the Year for his excellent contribution both on and off the pitch last season. Alan Brown was awarded the Hornet of the Year Trophy for a season where he battled tirelessly up front and only broke his duck with a goal in the very last game! He has promised more goals this year. And the night’s top award went to Mick Elliott- the first team Player-Manager who recovered from a heart attack early in the Season to lift his team off the bottom for a comfy mid-table finish. He was voted the Players’ Player of the Year.
Anyone over 50 can join us. We train Thursday Nights at the William Parker indoor centre and Saturdays at the Ark Academy in St Leonards.
Email Club Sec Tony at tonyharris750@hotmail.com for more details.
Photos show the Over 60s team and Mick Elliott getting his award.
CLUB NEWS
Presentation of the Club’s proposed development was made to interested parties at Parliament by kind invitation of our MP Helena Dollimore
The Presentation has been shared with the Fans Focus Group and the Inclusive & Disability Focus Group and Fans can get further information from Group members or by email to robert.hodgson@hastingsunited.com
We need your assistance in supporting our campaign for investment and funding.
Helena has said – ‘Hastings is one of 75 towns to be awarded £20m in funding as part of the Labour Government’s Plan for Neighbourhoods. This Labour Government has rightly said that the money should be spend on the priorities of local people, whether that is broken pavements, broken bus shelters, trying to open up important community venues like St Mary in the Castle, fixing up football facilities, or something else.
I will be pushing to make sure money is spent wisely and for the voices of local people to be heard when deciding what it should be spent on. More than 200 people have already been in touch to share their ideas with me.’
Please visit Helena’s website and help the Club by asking that support be given for improved football and sports facilities at the Pilot Field. Thank You
Deputy Leader of HBC Cllr. Julie Hilton commented after the meeting ‘Just following up your very exciting presentation regarding your development plans for Pilot Field and HUFC with Helena on Monday. Thank you so much for inviting us. I fed back to Councillor Glenn Haffenden, Council Leader, and we are both very supportive of your ambitions for the plans to benefit the wider community as well as the exciting developments at Pilot Field. Ben spoke very powerfully of the wider impact the club can have beyond ‘just football’ and breaking down barriers to participation.’
This year the Club is in recognition of Kent Surrey Sussex Air Ambulance and their assistance given to United fan Chris Taylor at the Chatham fixture.
They will be in attendance at our first League match with Erith Town and will be having a bucket collection. Please support them and remember to bring some cash with you. Thanks
The Club is also pleased to announce that part of the rear wall of the Cole Warren Stand will now have a space allocated as a Remembrance Wall and the Plaque in memory of Chris will be unveiled before the kick off at the above match.
Finally on Club News – a huge thank you to all the fans who helped with this years summer maintenance and getting the ground ready for the new season
JOIN OUR TEAM
We are pleased to invite you to join the Hastings United Media Team
We have the following roles available
Matchday PA Announcer – Be the Voice of The Pilot We’re on the lookout for a passionate, energetic volunteer to bring The Pilot Field to life. From naming the starting line-ups to shouting out goal scorers, sponsors, and our Player of the Match — you’ll be centre stage every game. If you’ve got a big voice, love football, and want to be part of Hastings’ matchday heartbeat, we want to hear from you. It’s your time on the mic!
Hospitality Bar Staff – The VIP Matchday Experience Starts With You Help us raise the bar. Literally. We’re looking for friendly, proactive volunteers to serve drinks and bring a buzz to our hospitality suite on matchdays. You’ll be key to delivering a great experience for our VIP guests — from local partners to club legends. It’s a brilliant way to get closer to the club, meet brilliant people, and be part of something new.
Does this sound like something that you can do, Can you add something to the fan enjoyment
Features/Forthcoming Events
You can also help by supporting our events so why not join us for these Autumn evenings
Saturday 27th September at the Hastings Sports & Social Club – The Elvis Show featuring a Charity Casino night in aid of KISS and local charity the Sara Lee Trust. Enjoy entertainment from one of the UK’s leading Elvis impersonators Trevor Dodson. Trevor is one of the UK’s leading professional Elvis Tribute Acts/Elvis Impersonators entertaining at public and private functions across the UK. Trevor is supported by the fabulous local entertainer Ritchie Lee. You can also play the Casino tables – Black Jack, Roulette and Dice (Craps) with professional dealers and even try your hand at Poker.
Tickets are £10 and include ten chips to get you started on the tables.
Friday 14th November – Fireworks evening
A firm favourite at the Club and this year we team up with Battle Bonfire Boys to bring you a whole new style presentation of our ever popular Fireworks evening.
Tickets for both events available from Online Ticket Seller
Hastings United can confirm the retention of Emily Cartwright.
Emily joined The ‘U’s in the 2022/23 season, the attacking player stays at the club for her fourth season.
Emily Cartwright:
“I’m incredibly honoured and excited to say I’ll be staying for Hastings. The connection we all have as a team is a blessing, i’m excited to see where this season leads us all. I’m committed to giving my all on the field and contributing to our success.”
Billy Wood:
“I originally signed Emily and she showed a lot of promise back then, coming into pre season she has certainly matured as a player and I’m hoping we can get the best out of her higher up the pitch. Her talent is obvious and I think this could really be a break out season for her.”
Hastings United are happy to announce the retention of Chloe Denny.
Denny, all action midfielder has been with The ‘U’s for the past two seasons and was ever present last year.
Chloe Denny:
“I am really enjoying pre season, it’s been tough but feel as a team we are really responding to what is asked from us. It’s a great bunch and feel like we have a new energy going into this year and will do my all to play my part.”
Billy Wood:
“Unlike a lot of the other players, this is the first time I have got to work with Chloe, she gives us a different option in the centre of midfield. She isn’t afraid to get stuck in and is buying into the high intensity we are demanding from the group. I am expecting her to kick on this year.”
Hastings United are delighted to announce the retention of Rebecca Relf.
Relf, originally joined The ‘U’s in 2020 as part of the launch of the team, captaining the side to SCWGFL Premier success, winning the division at our first attempt.
Rebecca Relf:
“Hastings will always have a very special place in my heart, I love this club and the girls. Ready to work hard, give my all & hopefully contribute to a more successful season! #COYU”
Billy Wood:
“Relf has come back into training I would say probably in the best shape I remember, with a real hunger to give it all to help us get back to where the club wants to be. She gives us natural balance, gets my style of play and will play a big role this season in driving that.”
This years Season Tickets are in and available for collection
The next opportunity for you to collect your season ticket will be on Tuesday 5th August between 6:00pm and 7:30pm at The Pilot Field
Our Mens First Team will also be training from 6:30pm on Tuesday so why not pop along and grab your season ticket and take in a bit of training ahead of our opening fixture on Saturday 9th August
When collecting please ensure you have your confirmation email either on your phone or printed off. If a concession has been ordered please proof of your eligibility.
A massive thank you to Online Ticket Seller for sponsoring this years tickets
Hastings United are delighted to announce the retention of Naomi Corrigan.
Corrigan, enters her 5th season with Hastings United, having made appearances for The ‘U’s.
Naomi Corrigan:
“Delighted to stay at the club, pre season has been really good so far and everyone is working hard. Hope to play my part in the club having a successful season.”
Billy Wood:
“Nay can play in a few positions, which could become valuable this season as we will no doubt have absentees/injuries across the squad. So that flexibility will help us maintain our standard. She is working hard in training, performing well and we hope can really play her part in us stepping things up.”
