A New Era for Audlem Football Club

A new era For Audlem Football Club

Like many rural football teams the early days for Audlem FC were difficult, but after a new season the future looks bright. The team has gradually come together as a winning force. The impressive new Annexe when it opens in the near future will provide some of the best changing facilities in the league and the playing field has been repaired and will soon be ready for regular use.

Club Formation

AFC was born as new team in 2014. Dan Morris, who had worked at the Lord Combermere approached me and asked would I be willing to head up a new football team in Audlem, using my business background. I listened to his enthusiasm and his assurance that he could get a team together and said yes.

We set up a bank account, had a drive to sign up a team and seek sponsors for the kit and balls. Thankfully Allan and Jo Brown of the Lord C stepped up to the plate – as they so often do and funded the kit!. The core players were Kev Mort, Kev Walters, Alan Brindley, Joe benson and Dan Morris.

Then came the difficult financial aspects. £150 to join the Cheshire Regional Sunday League and £500 to Cheshire East to set up the pitch with marking, grass cutting and goal posts – on our own playing field! That so hurts, and we have to hire the Public hall for changing facilities.

Early Days

As with many new teams the first three seasons were difficult. New players not yet fit or used to each other and many changes in the team, meant poor turn outs and more losses than wins.

The fourth season has seen a tremendous turn around with an enhanced team, greater commitment, enthusiasm and fire in their bellies. We are now winning approximately 50% of our games in a tough league.

The Future is Bright

The team this year has come together well and the results are showing it.
Moves to get a new kit for 2018/9 are in hand with sponsors already signed up in the person of The Lord C and Finefoodies Delli. What marvellous support from the village.

The new Annexe opens on the 18th November and this will provide some of the best changing facilities for sports in Cheshire with benches, hangers, lockers, changing rooms and superb showers. The playing field has been repaired and will soon be available for use.

The future looks bright and I am sure the team will do us proud!

Ralph Warburton
Chairman AFC

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