03/06/2026
After 11 incredible seasons, the time has come for me to step away from coaching and as club chairman.
As Iโve always said, this club has never been about meโitโs about the players. Seeing their smiles, their enjoyment, and their love for the game is what itโs all about. Yes, weโve had teams that have done incredibly well in cup and league competitions. Weโve won trophies at local and county level, and those are fantastic achievements that everyone involved should be proud of.
But for me, the real pride comes from something deeperโwatching players step onto the pitch and truly represent the badge. Seeing that sense of belonging, commitment, and pride in wearing the shirt means more than any medal or trophy ever could.
I began this journey coaching at U7 level, and to have followed that pathway all the way through to U18s and mens has been a privilege. Over those years, Iโve experienced the full spectrumโtears, laughter, wins, losses and draws. But what Iโve come to understand is that the most important thing the boys and girls take from this game has very little to do with football itself.
Itโs the camaraderie. Itโs learning to deal with adversity in a safe and supportive environment.
Itโs building something together, celebrating the highs and supporting each other through the lows.
The life lessons they gain will always outweigh the football skills they develop.
Thatโs what shaped my view as a coach and as Chairman. Iโve never believed in a โwin at all costsโ approach.
Iโve seen too many situations where the game is taken too far, where children are treated poorly in the pursuit of results. That should never be what grassroots football is about.
For the past five years, itโs been an honour to serve as Chairman, and together weโve driven this club forward. Weโve refreshed our identity with a new and redesigned club badge, introduced a modern kit that reflects who we are, and most importantly, built a club culture we can all be proud of.
Weโve been fortunate to celebrate club success along the wayโwinning Grassroots Club of the Year three times and being shortlisted again this season is something everyone connected to this club should be incredibly proud of.
One of our biggest achievements has been securing a new home alongside our neighbours at Peterborough Rugby Club. That move represents the future of this clubโa place to grow, to develop, and to continue providing opportunities for young people for years to come.
This facility has seen us be able to offer Northants FA CPD events for coaches along with Referee courses for our players.
But more important than any facility or award is the message I want to leave with you:
This is kidsโ football. Winning means nothing if itโs done the wrong way or for the wrong reasons.
The strongest player you have today might not be your strongest tomorrowโdevelopment isnโt a straight line.
Make it enjoyable. Less than 1% of these players will ever play at a higher level, so for the vast majority, this is about fun, friendships, and memoriesโeven if that memory includes lifting a trophy at the end of the season awards.
And remember, the way you behave as a coach, a parent, or a volunteer is reflected directly in the children. Set the standard. Encourage the right behaviours. Do not tolerate disrespectโbecause those values will stay with them far beyond their playing days.
Most of all, enjoy it. It doesnโt last long ( well 11 years for me but it flies by). Without the time and effort of coaches, parents, referees, and volunteers, thousands of children wouldnโt have the opportunity to experience everything this game can offer.
You all make this club what it is.
So to everyone who has been part of this journeyโplayers, parents, coaches, committee members, referees and supportersโthank you. Youโve created an environment where children can make lifelong memories.
They may forget the scores, and they may forget the trophies, but they will never forget the feeling of turning up, playing football, and being part of something special.
Itโs been an honour to be part of it.
Thank you.
Ian
