As we bring our 10th anniversary season to a close, I would like to take this opportunity to reflect on what has been a truly historic and memorable year for everyone connected with Retford FC.
This season has been one of outstanding achievement and a fitting way to mark ten years of progress, commitment, and hard work. To see our First Team crowned league champions, alongside both our Under-21s and Under-18s also winning their respective league titles, is something the entire club can be immensely proud of. Achieving success across all three levels is a reflection of the strength, unity, and ambition that runs throughout Retford FC.
Off the pitch, we have also achieved a hugely important milestone for the future of the club with planning permission being successfully approved for the new 3G training ground at the rear of the Rail Ground. This is a major step forward in the club’s long-term development plans and will provide first-class facilities for our players, coaches, and wider community for many years to come. It represents another significant chapter in the continued growth of the club and would not have been possible without the hard work and support of many people behind the scenes.
As Chairman, I can honestly say I am the proudest man in Retford seeing what this club has achieved both on and off the pitch this season. The success we have enjoyed is not just measured in trophies and titles, but in the progress, unity, and ambition shown throughout every part of the club. From our senior teams through to our younger age groups, and with the exciting developments taking place off the field, this has been a season that everyone connected with the club will remember for many years to come.
I would also like to place special recognition on all of our junior coaches and their teams. The time, effort, and dedication they give throughout the season to help develop and improve players within our junior section is outstanding. Their commitment goes far beyond training sessions and matchdays, and they play a vital role in creating the positive environment and pathway that continues to strengthen the future of our club. On behalf of everyone at Retford FC, thank you for everything you do.
As a committee and coaching group, we are incredibly proud of the legacy we are building for the people of Retford. The work being carried out now — both on the field and through the development of new facilities — will benefit generations to come and ensure the club continues to provide opportunities, enjoyment, and community spirit for many, many years ahead.
Retford FC continues to grow bigger and bigger each season and is becoming a football club that sits at the very heart of the community. That is something we are all immensely proud of. Seeing so many players, families, volunteers, supporters, and local people come together through the club shows just how important Retford FC has become within the town.
I would also like to recognise our friends at Bassetlaw Casuals, who use our facilities and do fantastic work within the community tackling mental health and supporting so many people through football. We are proud to support them in any way we can, and the work they carry out is truly invaluable to the local community.
This season will always be remembered as a special one in the club’s history, and in many ways it feels like a “Martin Keeton season” — a year where everything has come together for the club, and a time his memory is very much felt and respected by all who knew him and the impact he had on Retford FC.
Yesterday’s final game at the Rail Ground for Jack Johnson’s testimonial was a fantastic way to round off such a memorable season. It was great to see so many people come together to celebrate someone who has given so much to the club over the years.
Now, after a long and successful campaign, it is time for everyone involved with the club to take a well-earned break, recharge the batteries, and spend time with family and friends before we begin preparing for the challenges and opportunities that next season will bring.
Firstly, I would like to congratulate all of our players, coaching staff, and management teams for their dedication and professionalism throughout the season. Winning titles requires consistency, resilience, and commitment, and every individual involved has played their part in delivering an exceptional season.
I would also like to place on record my sincere thanks to our volunteers, committee members, supporters, and families. Behind every successful club is a group of people who work tirelessly behind the scenes, often without recognition, to ensure everything operates smoothly week after week. Your efforts are greatly appreciated and never taken for granted.
To our sponsors and partners, thank you for your continued support throughout this landmark season. Your backing allows us to continue growing the club, investing in our teams, and creating opportunities for players at every level.
While we rightly celebrate the achievements of this season, we also remain focused on the future. The success we have enjoyed this year, both on and off the field, provides strong foundations to continue building upon as we look ahead to the next chapter in the club’s journey.
Finally, to all our supporters — thank you. Your loyalty, encouragement, and belief in the club have helped drive us forward throughout this special anniversary season. We hope you are as proud as we are of what has been achieved together. We won the league at cannon park will forever be remembered.
On behalf of everyone at Retford FC, thank you once again for your continued support, and we look forward to seeing you all again next season.
Best regards,
Chris Woodhead
Chairman