Hastings United can confirm that Jason Tibble has stepped down from his role as Womens First Team Manager
We would like to thank Jason for his hard work and commitment over the past two with us and wish him well for the future.
“Firstly I would like to thank all the people behind the scenes, who don’t get nearly enough credit for the amount they do and are the true heartbeat of the club.
To all the coaching staff, you’ve been amazing and thank you for your continued support throughout a very tough season.
To the players for sticking at it even at the hardest times, finishing 5 unbeaten shows how much you’ve come on as players and as people.
Time for me to have a rest after a very challenging season on and off the pitch, I’ve given my all and can leave with my head held knowing I gave everything I had despite constantly being challenged all season with all the difficulties we’ve had.
It’s been a pleasure, look forward to watching the girls at some point soon”
Up the U’s
Jason Tibble
Welcome to the May
Bulletin from Hastings United FC
As we all celebrate the 80th anniversary of the end of WW2 we both remember and give thanks to all those players, staff, volunteers and fans of Hastings United FC who both served and gave their lives that we may enjoy our great Club today.
TEAM NEWS
MENS FIRST TEAM
It was a tough ask coming in with Dean for the remaining 5 games and seeking to avoid relegation when the previous 37 games had put us in that position. However, I feel the group that Dean and myself worked with for those 5 games and over the course of training for those weeks were magnificent. Having 7 of the squad step up from the U18 for each match and to see some of the performances they put in shows the future is very exciting for them and Hastings United FC. Within the 5 games going to some real tough places like Canvey Island where we were the better team but could not convert our chances and Dover where we were really competitive and picked up a point after leading for a long period. This is testament to the hard work and belief the team had in what we were doing as a unit, I just wish we would have had another 5 games where I believe the season result may have been different.
The club must now prepare for the Isthmian South East where I feel it’s important to build on the culture Hastings United is renowned for and I can testify when it is right there is no better place to play football. I know the supporters will continue to give the team their support and this will be massive moving forward into 25/26 season where I hope the club will bounce straight back.
Lee Carey
WOMENS FIRST TEAM
Unbeaten in April. 3 games, 2 draws, 1 win, 2 clean sheets! Who would have thought that a month ago?
We started off the month against Top of the league Aylesford at Home. We gave our all, had opportunities to win against top of the league, who previously we lost 6-0 in the away fixture, to going toe to toe this time round. Only to concede from a corner. Amy Critchfield with our goal, a flick on from a corner. A fully deserved point after a slog of a season, shows how good we have been recently and all season the potential we’ve had, finally hitting our strides.
We then faced local rivals Bexhill at The Pilot Field. 0-0 at half time, against a very underrated side. Before we came out flying in the second half, scoring 3 excellent goals through, Maddy Frances-Creaser, Priya Thapa and Rebecca Relf. 3-0 and 3 points, a great way to secure our safety.
We then last week went to 3rd placed Saltdean DS, where in the first half could of had 4 goals but unfortunately couldn’t get the final touches just right and 1 or 2 good pieces of goalkeeping and defending.
Chances in that game we dominated but possession not so much on the hottest day of the year so far. Managed to go back to back clean sheets for the first time this season and come away with a point against a very good side.
This season, we have been up against it for long periods of time, on and off the pitch. And these girls have been tremendous. They have been proper club players, they’ve dug in, never gave up and kept the club in the league which at one point looked near on impossible and I couldn’t be prouder of how they have gone about things.
2 more home fixtures to go, looking to finish in 7th place which would be an amazing achievement and one I believe these athletes deserve after all they’ve put in. Your support at home recently has been great for the girls and I know they would really appreciate one last push to finally get this very long season over the line.
PS – HUFC v Steyning Utd. Women Sunday 4th May – result 1 – 1
A great defensive performance today against a very good side. Despite going behind the U’s showed character to get back into the game through Phoebe Cowley’s well taken goal. Four unbeaten with one league game to go
Please come and support our Women’s team in their final game of the season on Sunday 11th May, 3.30pm ko at the Pilot Field
Jason Tibble
INCLUSIVE & DISABILITY TEAM
Hastings United Inclusive and Disability have got two more months’ worth of season games. 18th may and 8th June. May is extremely busy for the team as they travel up to Worthing this coming Sunday (4th May) for a tournament. May 10th sees the end of season presentation for them to celebrate another great season. 17th May sees a 11 a side game hosted at the pilot field against Eastbourne. 26th is our Hastings tournament. All in all, a very good month of football for them and something that they will look forward to, I’m sure. The growth is always getting bigger with potential new players coming in. The players have done so well in the league and come away with points nearly every visit up to Lancing. As manager and phase lead of the programme I couldn’t be happier and prouder of such a great group of players (youth team included). Two more months of this season then we will have a nice break before we crack down again for the 25/26 season. Well done Hastings United Inclusive and Disability team
Lewis Willard
Head of Hastings United Youth and Adults Inclusive and Disability Team
CLUB NEWS
FOCUS GROUP
Following the Fans Forum the Club has now established two Focus Groups to gain insight into the experiences and perspectives of various stakeholders including Fans and Fans with special interests and requirements. The Club is most grateful to the following fans for stepping forward to undertake helping in planning the future facilities and operations of the Club –
FANS FOCUS GROUP
Chris Laverick, Amy Millard, Sarah Millard James Lawton, Pete Grain, Ian Grant, Kev Towner, Jonathan Buckmaster
FAN INCLUSIVE & DISABILITY GROUP
Kev Towner, John Wills, James Lawton, Jack Kelly, Kevin Wishart, Stephen Wiggs
.
The Focus Groups will look at various aspects of the Fans experience at home fixtures, from the facilities and amenities provided, merchandise, matchday sponsorship opportunities, food and drink etc. Please let any of the above have your thoughts and suggestions on what you feel would improve and enhance your matchday experience – (apart of course from the results!! – we must leave that to others) You are also welcome to email Robert.hodgson@hastingsunited.com – Thanks for our help
SEASON TICKETS – Details coming soon
.
.
END OF SEASON AWARDS
We invite you to join us for our 24/25 End Of Season Awards
The awards night brings together our Disability Team, U18’s, Women’s & Men’s as well as celebrating the fantastic volunteers we have at our club that make it all happen
SATURDAY 10th MAY
7PM
HASTINGS UNITED SPORTS & SOCIAL CLUB
FREE
COMMERCIAL MANAGMENT TEAM
We are pleased to confirm that Terry Cannon of WeComm has joined the Commercial team and will be the Director of Business Engagement & Partnerships and will support Hayley and Lorna.
.
.
Paul Wilson of Play Sport has joined the Management Team as Facilities Manager and will also assist the Commercial team as we move forward with the development of the Club.
.
.
We also welcome in support of the Commercial team Paul Goldsmith from our Website Partners Gold Pebble
.
.
FEATURES / FORTHCOMING EVENTS
Help the Club by supporting the Summer Extravaganza – plenty of fun for all the family, food and drink, stalls, children’s entertainment
.
.
This will be the last Bulletin for the 2024/25 Season – hope you have enjoyed the news and updates and have a great summer, take care, be safe and see you for 2025/26 as we take on the new challenges ahead
We invite you to join us for our 24/25 End Of Season Awards
.
.
The awards night brings together our Disability Team, U18’s, Women’s & Men’s as well as celebrating the fantastic volunteers we have at our club that make it all happen
SATURDAY 10th MAY
7PM
HASTINGS UNITED SPORTS & SOCIAL CLUB
FREE
.
.
It’s time to vote for your Hastings United 𝐌𝐄𝐍𝐒 Player Of The Season
Vote emailing the name of your winner to adam.smith@hastingsunited.com
Voting closes at 9pm on Thursday 8th May
#COYU #PlayerOfTheSeason #HUFCW
.
It’s time to vote for your Hastings United 𝐖𝐎𝐌𝐄𝐍𝐒 Player Of The Season
Vote emailing the name of your winner to adam.smith@hastingsunited.com
Voting closes at 9pm on Thursday 8th May
#COYU #PlayerOfTheSeason #HUFCW
.
Following the Fans Forum on 13th March the Board of Directors wish to establish some Focus Groups as the Club moves forward with the Development plans and related matters.
The Fans Forum was very well attended, and an excellent note of the meeting was posted on the Fans Facebook Page by Ian Grant on 14th March and you are recommended to have a read. Thanks to Ian for this contribution.
The initial intention of the Focus Groups will be to receive information from the Board on all issues regarding the Development and other related Club matters.
The existing Inclusive & Disability Group under the Chair of Kev Towner will continue its work as a Focus Group with special regard and interest of Disability and Diversity issues.
At the Fans Forum it was suggested that a Supporters Club be established, or re-established, and this is a matter for the Fans. However, the proposed Fans Focus Group will involve a maximum of 10 people which can either be nominated through any newly established Supporters Club or by selection through ballot from any Fans wishing to volunteer to join the Group.
The Board will also have a Staff Focus Group, thus reflecting all aspects of those involved in supporting and running the Club.
The Focus Groups will elect a Chair at their first meeting and each Group will be facilitated on behalf of the Board by Bob Hodgson and meetings will be held at the Club as determined by each Focus Group. Directors may attend at Focus Groups from time to time.
If you wish to enter your name in a ballot for membership of the Fans Focus Group please contact Bob Hodgson at Robert.hodgson@hastingsunited.com . If a Supporters Club is established before the end of the current season, nominations will be invited from that Club.
This April, Hastings Means Business are partnering with Hastings Area Chamber of Commerce for a special joint meeting combining both our networks.
Thursday 24th April, 9:00am – 11:00am
Hasting United Sports & Social Club
Guest Speakers:
There are some exciting developments behind the scenes at here at Hastings United FC that we are delighted to share with the business community and partners. Hastings United FC’s new partners, Torch Sports, who have acquired shares in the Football Club, will be involved in the future management of the Club and assisting with securing the investment needed will be sharing the redevelopment plans for The Historic Pilot Field – Home of Hastings United Football Club and future Community Hub for Hastings.
As Hastings United FC draw close to completing another highly successful academic year as Football and Educational Partners with East Sussex College Group, we are delighted to welcome Hannah Ottley from East Sussex College Group, who will be giving an insight as to opportunities available to local businesses via work placements, community engagement and apprenticeships.
This meeting is an excellent opportunity to connect with fellow members, learn about more local educational initiatives, and explore potential collaborations.
Menu:
Breakfast will be catered for by Andrea from Truly Scrumptious, providing our members with a choice of Bacon/Sausage/Egg Baps, a selection of pastries, Tea, Coffee & Orange Juice.
https://hufc.onlineticketseller.com/events/99599
Welcome to the April
Bulletin from Hastings United FC
TEAM NEWS
MENS FIRST TEAM
Following discussions with Men’s First Team Manager Danny Searle, the club and Danny have mutually agreed to part ways.
We would like to thank Danny for his hard work and commitment during his time with us and wish him well for the future.
Dean White will oversee first team affairs until the end of the season.
I want to thank Ben and Dean for the opportunity to work at Hastings United FC. It’s a great Club with a phenomenal fan base. Thank you to all the staff and volunteers who put in tireless hours above and beyond to ensure everything runs as smoothly as possible. To the fans, you are among the most loyal and dedicated fans I’ve seen and show unrelenting support for the Club which is Amazing! I thank you for the support you gave myself, the staff and the players. I wish everyone involved with the Club the very best for the future. –Danny Searle
12th April away to Canvey Island
19th April home to Hashtag United
21st April away to Dover Athletic
26th April home to Potters Bar Town
.
.
.
WOMENS FIRST TEAM
This month got off to a positive start with a victory over Three Bridges away with a 3-0 win, which was much needed to get us out the relegation zone. We then faced unbeaten Bognor at Home which we defended really well again like we have done for the majority of the season and only conceded from 2 set pieces which were looking back one offside and the second was a very, very soft free kick. So again, a really positive performance just not the result. We then travelled to local rivals Bexhill, went 1-0 up in 6 minutes through a set piece of our own, before conceding 2 wonder strikes in added time of both halves. Frustrating to say the least however we are giving our all with no return in the results. Lastly, we played Saltdean Development at The Pilot Field. Conceding again a strike from distance after having some really good spells where we should have scored. Unfortunately, I’m sounding like a broken record, the work rate, desire to defend and get into good areas to score is there, it just isn’t happening. League table has had a few changes in it which now leaves us back in bottom spot, so we need a big push this month against Aylesford, Bexhill and Saltdean DS.
Your support would be much needed with our last 4 out of 5 games at home!
Jason Tibble
13th April home to Bexhill United
27th April away to Saltdean United Dev.
4th May home
.
.
.
Inclusive & Disability Team
On Saturday, 29th March, Hastings United Inclusive and Disability team faced up against 1066 Specials, in a couple of friendly matches. Due to the incredibly high turnout from both sides, the teams were split into two separate pitches, where they played a few matches each.
On one pitch, Keegan went in goal, with Kayden, Nathan, Lewis, Max and Archie all playing outfield. It was a dominant performance from the Hastings team, where across 3 matches, Lewis scored 5 goals, Kayden and Archie getting multiple assists each, and Max and Nathan helping keep the team together. Keegan made some brilliant saves when choosing himself to go in goal, and the whole team played exceptionally well.
On the other pitch, the games played were a lot closer, with Gary in goal for Game 1, with Alex, Aaron, Aiden, Jack, Lee, Leeroy and Charlie playing outfield in set positions. The game was back and forth, both teams creating and finishing superb chances. Alex launched a ball up field from defending a corner, which Charlie ran onto and finished superbly, past an onrushing keeper. Hastings then got a second goal with a brilliant corner from Jack leading to Charlie taking a touch and scoring a volley from close range. Despite an incredible defensive effort from Aiden, Aaron and Alex at the back, and Gary in goal making some excellent saves, 1066 managed to score 4 goals, making the scoreline of the first game 4-2 in their favour.
For the second game, Hastings knew they had to step up their game. Jack opted to go in goal, letting Gary move into midfield. This change worked brilliantly for both, with Jack making save after save, and Gary making a wonderful pass to Charlie, who got his hat trick for the day after smashing the ball in the net from the edge of the box. The pressing from Lee and Leeroy limited their chances going forward, and with Aiden covering all the space, it meant that when Aaron and Alex had to do their job, they had it calmly covered. The final score for Game 2 was 1-0 to Hastings United, with all the boys doing the club proud.
Overall, both Hastings teams thoroughly enjoyed themselves, as it was a brilliant day of football in the sunny weather. Everyone contributed in their own way to the success of the teams and got some good match experience for our upcoming tournament in Worthing next month.
This was written by one of our players for the friendly we had Saturday.
Lewis Willard
Head of Hastings United Youth and Adults Inclusive and Disability Team
.
.
.
.
WALKING FOOTBALL TEAM
WALK THIS WAY – FOOTBALL FOR THE OVER 50s!
Think your footballing days are over? Think again! Hastings United’s over-50s walking football team is calling on all ex-players, Sunday league warriors, and footie fanatics who still have the skills but maybe not the knees to run marathons anymore.
When I first heard about walking football, I’ll admit – I was gutted. Walking? Really? Visions of half-asleep blokes shuffling about in slippers filled my head. I still felt like a fit, young 18-year-old (even if my knees begged to differ). But the truth is, I missed the game. The thrill of competition. The camaraderie. So, I gave it a go. And let me tell you – it was the best decision I ever made.
.
.
Hastings United’s walking football team has been going strong for four years, part of a nationwide movement that’s reviving the sport for the over-50s. And it’s not just for the lads – women are getting in on the action too! This isn’t a slow-motion stroll in the park; it’s a game of skill, precision, and tactical brilliance. No crunching tackles, no lung-busting sprints – just pure footballing talent on display.
The banter is top tier, the competition fierce, and the team spirit unbeatable. My game has evolved – it’s all about smart passing, positioning, and reading the play. And the best part? I can still walk the next day! Of course, if you want to come and just have a kick around you are very welcome.
So, ditch the excuses, lace up your boots, and relive the glory days! Training every Thursday (7-8.30pm) at Ark Alexandra School (William Parker in old money) and Saturdays (1-2.30pm) at St Leonards Academy. Call the chair on 07508 618626 and get back in the game!
Andy Batsford
.
.
CLUB NEWS
FOCUS GROUP
Following the Fans Forum on 13th March the Board of Directors wish to establish some Focus Groups as the Club moves forward with the Development plans and related matters.
The Fans Forum was very well attended, and an excellent note of the meeting was posted on the Fans Facebook Page by Ian Grant on 14th March and you are recommended to have a read. Thanks to Ian for this contribution.
The initial intention of the Focus Groups will be to receive information from the Board on all issues regarding the Development and other related Club matters.
The existing Inclusive & Disability Group under the Chair of Kev Towner will continue its work as a Focus Group with special regard and interest of Disability and Diversity issues.
At the Fans Forum it was suggested that a Supporters Club be established, or re-established, and this is a matter for the Fans. However, the proposed Fans Focus Group will involve a maximum of 10 people which can either be nominated through any newly established Supporters Club or by selection through ballot from any Fans wishing to volunteer to join the Group.
The Board will also have a Staff Focus Group, thus reflecting all aspects of those involved in supporting and running the Club.
The Focus Groups will elect a Chair at their first meeting and each Group will be facilitated on behalf of the Board by Bob Hodgson and meetings will be held at the Club as determined by each Focus Group. Directors may attend at Focus Groups from time to time.
If you wish to enter your name in a ballot for membership of the Fans Focus Group please contact Bob Hodgson at Robert.hodgson@hastingsunited.com . If a Supporters Club is established before the end of the current season, nominations will be invited from that Club.
.
HASTINGS MEANS BUSINESS
We are very excited to be able to invite you to join us for a special joint networking meeting when Hastings Means Business are partnering with Hastings Area Chamber of Commerce combining both our networks
Thursday 24th April at Hasting United Sports & Social Club 9:00am – 11:00am
Members Price £17.50 plus VAT Non-Members £25.00 plus VAT
Tickets can be booked via this link https://hufc.onlineticketseller.com/events/99599
Guest Speakers:
There are some exciting developments behind the scenes here at Hastings United FC that we are delighted to share with our business community and partners. Hasting United FC’s new partners, Torch Sports, who have acquired shares in the Football Club, will be involved in the future management of the Club and assisting with securing the investment needed will be sharing the redevelopment plans for The Historic Pilot Field – Home of Hastings United Football Club and future Community Hub for Hastings.
As Hastings United FC draw close to completing another highly successful academic year as Football and Educational Partners with East Sussex College Group, we are delighted to welcome Hannah Ottley from East Sussex College Group, who will be giving an insight as to opportunities available to local businesses via work placements, community engagement and apprenticeships.
Menu
Breakfast will be catered for by Andrea from Truly Scrumptious, providing us with a choice of Bacon/Sausage/Egg Baps, and a selection of pastries, Tea, Coffee & Orange Juice
To find out more about our business club please visit Hastings Means Business – Hastings United Football Club
To find out more about Commercial/Sponsorship opportunities at Hastings United Football Club please visit: Commercial | Hastings United Football Club
We would be delighted if you are able to join us on the 24th, your support really would be appreciated
.
STUDENT VISIT
On Thursday 27th March we were delighted to share our redevelopment plans for the Pilot Field with an amazing group of Level 2 business students from East Sussex College, Hastings Campus. Working in small teams the students came up with some great ideas for future events and new match day experiences that Hastings United FC would be able to offer on Match Days. Each group has now picked an idea to work on further and we are excited to be meeting up with the students again in May when they will be pitching their ideas too us.
.
.
.
HAVE A HAPPY EASTER
From all at Hastings United Football Club
.
We were delighted to welcome our Men’s Player Sponsors before our game v Billericay who were invited into the dressing room to meet the team and manager.
Thank you to all our Player Sponsors for your ongoing support, it really is appreciated by everyone at Hastings United FC.
.
.
.
Forthcoming Event –
Are you ready for a Challenge?
.
On Thursday 27th March we were delighted to share our redevelopment plans with an amazing group of Level 2 business students from East Sussex College, Hastings Campus. Working in small teams the students came up with some great ideas for future events and new match day experiences that Hastings United FC would be able to offer on Match Days. Each group has now picked an idea to work on further and we are excited to be meeting up with the students again in May when they will be pitching their ideas too us.