Relaunch Of Guildford City FC In Their Centenary Year

Published on: 11 Jun, 2021
Updated on: 14 Jun, 2021

By Julian Cooper

In case you missed it, there had been a big build-up to the news announced on June 1 – the relaunch of Guildford City Football Club from the top down in what is their centenary year.

Before you read further, take the time a look at this video encouraging us all to get behind our local team.

As we know Guildford City appointed a new manager at the start of the year, Paul Barnes, who had gained experience managing a couple of levels above Guildford in the footballing pyramid.

Barnes has been installed to add a new professional dimension to the club following a short but successful period with Staines Town FC.

The manager said: “We will be working tirelessly to instil the need for professionalism right throughout the club. With quality players joining the squad, along with the appointment of such roles as sports scientist, physical and psychological coaches, performance analyst, sports therapist and all supported by a great coaching staff, it’s clear that the club has exciting plans for the future.”

Development of a Stadium in Guildford will be key to the club’s development. Photo Guildford City FC.

In addition, the club continues to forge closer links with Guildford City Boys and Girls Football Club, and as reported previously is creating a women’s team for the first time. With the U23’s squad as well, this will complete a full structure for the club from age six years upwards.

A key element to the progression of the football club is the development of a stadium. Plans are already in place to improve the stadium at the Spectrum leisure complex, with additional covered seating.

However, this would only have to be the start if Guildford City are to gain promotion to more senior leagues. Stadium development will be a key aspect to the club’s long-term success.

Other initiatives include the launch of a new website guildfordcityfc.co.uk and a Football for a Fiver scheme where the maximum admission charge next season will be limited to £5.

Concessions will be £3 and children under 16 can attend free – all designed to galvanise the local community and attract more support for the club.

Club chairman David Knight said: “With the help of our new manager and a strong and dedicated executive group comprising Ashley Read, Brian Bloomfield, Barry Underwood, Kevin Parker, John Wood and Alan Bird, we are taking huge strides to put Guildford City back on the national footballing map. They are going to be employing around 30 people of which some will be new players.

“The club has a great footballing heritage which many may not be aware of, and our aim is to make the town once again proud of its team. So much work has been carried out over the last four months by some excellent people, old and new to the club, and this will continue on and off the pitch to ensure a bright and successful future for Guildford City Football Club.”

Before the start of next season there are some pre-season friendlies arranged. The stand out ties are Margate FC v Guildford City on Wednesday, July 7, for what should be a great “jolly boys” outing, and Guildford City v AFC Wimbledon XI on Monday, July 26, , who themselves have managed to climb the pyramid structure to become well established in English Football League Division 1.

AFC Wimbledon have set an example and have proved that it is possible for a team to dream big and aim for the English Football League.

Local football fans have to do their bit though and get behind our team next season. With the cost of attendance reduced so that a parent can take their children and only pay a small amount themselves, has got to be good in these times.

Up the City and remember “It’s you, it’s me’ it’s us’ it’s we,” that put the bread in the toaster.