The 2024/25 season saw Hastings United Inclusive and Disability First Team finish fourth out of five teams, securing eight points.
Throughout much of the campaign, the squad operated with the minimum seven players required, and on occasion had only one substitute available.
Since then, the team has made significant progress in strengthening squad depth. We now consistently attend our 7v7 league fixtures with approximately 12 players, providing greater stability and competitiveness.
At the conclusion of the season, we held a post-season meeting to outline our objectives for 2025/26 and beyond. A key focus of discussion was how to improve performance and sustainability. Our priorities included recruiting new players, developing our youth pathway, and placing a stronger emphasis on achieving success within the adult league competition.
Having remained on eight points for two consecutive seasons, our immediate objective was clear: to surpass that total and begin a measurable upward trajectory.
To support this ambition, we established a structured three-year plan:
• 2025/26 Season: Achieve a 3rd place finish or higher
• 2026/27 Season: Compete for and secure 2nd place
• 2027/28 Season: Challenge for and win the league title
I am proud to confirm that in the 2025/26 Championship season, the team achieved its target, finishing 3rd out of five teams with 10 points. The players demonstrated outstanding determination and commitment, delivering exactly the progress we set out to achieve.
Attention now turns to the upcoming cup competitions over the next two months. Beginning in April in Worthing, we will compete in a series of fixtures, with the final scheduled to take place in Lancing in May should we progress. These matches provide another valuable opportunity to test ourselves and continue building momentum.
Securing third place represents an important milestone for the Inclusive and Disability Team. It reinforces that we are capable of competing effectively within our league and continuing to close the gap on our rivals.
Most importantly, Hastings United continues to provide an inclusive environment where players of all abilities can access and enjoy football. For many of our players, this opportunity may not otherwise be available. Seeing them participate in and enjoy the sport they love remains our greatest achievement.
We will continue to build, develop, and expand this fantastic team, and we look forward with confidence to the seasons ahead.
Lewis Willard – Head of Inclusive and Disability Team – Hastings United
