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
