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Blues News 1st May
Apart from a short cloud burst mid afternoon nothing dampened anyone’s spirits and a great relaxed time as had by everyone. A short prize ceremony was held after the evening meal. With prizes being given out by Manager Billy Heath to: Lee Morris winning the Individual Competition Allan Pearson of Hayley Northern as Individual runner up Lee Morris, Ashley Vickers, Ryan Morton and Steve Robinson as winning team R&B Rockdrillers of Hampole as team runners up Chris Gowen for the Longest Drive Charles Van Blerk of Andrews Sykes Pumps for Nearest the Pin
Anyone wishing to pre book for next years competition or who wishes to sponsor a hole or donate a prize please contact the club.
27th April Frickley Athletic are staging a benefit match for central defender Steve Heath at Westfield Lane on Monday 5th May. Thirty year old Heath has missed almost all of this season due to a form of cancer which has seen him undergo numerous tests throughout the season. Having now had a tumour removed Heath is now hoping to begin his recovery but, unfortunately, his illness has also prevented him from working for several months and he is still unlikely to work during his recovery. Frickley have therefore arranged a match between Frickley’s current squad and a Chairman’s Invitation XI which will kick off at 3pm on Bank Holiday Monday. Players who have already committed to appear for the Chairman’s XI include Neil Redfern, Martyn Woolford, Gary Hatto, Gary Ingham, Steve Kennedy and Antony Jackson. The Frickley side will be managed by player Steve Robinson with the current management team of Billy Heath and Mark Carroll due to turn out as players. The main match will be preceded by a match between South Kirkby Juniors U12s and Upton United Under 12s. The turnstiles open at mid-day and admission is £5 for adults and £2 for concessions. In order to raise further funds for Steve Heath Frickley are asking for bids for people to participate in the day itself in several ways. These are as follows: Auction 1 – Player : Bids are invited from males over the age of 16 Auction 2 - Assistant Manager : Bids are invited from males or females over the age of 10 Auction 3 – Mascots : Bids are invited on the behalf of children under 16s All bids to be lodged in writing with any Club Official or
via e-mail to steve@pennocks.freeserve.co.uk.
Please state clearly which auction you are bidding on and leave full
contact details. The auctions will close at 8pm on Saturday 3rd May
in order that the winners can be notified of their success on Sunday 4th
May. In addition the Frickley squad will be signing all the shirts in both the home and away shirts and these are being offered for auction, with the exception of the home number 9 and 10 shirts which have been reserved by sponsors. Again, all bids are to be lodged with any Club Official or via e-mail to steve@pennocks.freeserve.co.uk and full contact details should be given along with the number of shirt being bid on. The deadline for bids is 5pm on Monday 5th May. Steve Heath started his career as a junior at Leeds United. He had spells at Carlisle United and Rotherham United before joining Stamford. He moved on to Matlock Town and Ilkeston Town before joining Alfreton Town in summer 2000. He moved to Bridlington Town in June 2003 and joined Frickley for the first time towards the end of the 2005/06 season before joining Stocksbridge Park Steels the following season. He returned to Frickley upon the appointment of his brother Billy as manager in October 2006 12th April
Jonathan Groome was voted "Supporters Player of the Year" and he was presented with his trophy by long-time Blues' supporter Ron Williams.
2nd April Frickley Athletic have been given a timely boost as they enter the final run in to a difficult season with the news that three key players have signed new contracts. Central defender Dean Jones, midfielder Danny Walsh and striker Lee Morris have all signed contracts to keep them at Westfield Lane until the end of next season. Securing the three signatures signals the start of Frickley’s intention to build on the vast improvements of the latter half of the season in order to have a much more successful campaign in 2008/2009. The timing of the deals couldn’t be better as Frickley go into the last five matches of the season on the back of an incredible run that has seen them take 36 points from the last 20 UniBond League matches since Billy Heath returned to the club as manager. This run has seen the Club move from six points adrift at the bottom of the table after fifteen matches to within touching distance of cementing UniBond Premier Division football next season. However, with only five points separating ninth placed Ilkeston Town from nineteenth placed North Ferriby United, Frickley still have a considerable amount of work to do to be certain of avoiding relegation. Currently occupying thirteenth place they travel to fourteenth-placed Matlock Town on Saturday knowing a win would go a long way towards securing their future in the Premier Division. Unfortunately, they will be without the services of leading goalscorer Morris who serves the first of a two-match suspension for an accumulation of bookings whilst defender Steve Robinson is suspended for the rest of the season following his fourth dismissal of the season against Ossett Town on Good Friday. 16th March Frickley Athletic officials have admitted to being
astounded at accusations in the Worksop press of racism at last Tuesday
evening’s UniBond League match at Westfield Lane. The accusations are from
Worksop’s Chairman John Hepworth and Manager Peter Rinckavage who are alleging
Frickley fans made abusive and racist chants towards Worksop fans throughout the
entire game and that Frickley officials stood by and took no action. However, Frickley Chairman Pete Bywater is disappointed not
only with the nature of the allegations made by Hepworth but also by the way in
which the allegations have been made in the press rather than bringing any
concerns to the attention of Frickley Athletic. Bywater said “ We strongly refute any such claims by
Worksop. To the best of my knowledge there was a short spell of antisocial
chanting towards the end of the game when the perpetrators were spoken to by the
stewards and the language was subsequently toned down.” He added ” When we were made aware of the article it gave
us cause for concern so we reviewed the match video to see if any further
chanting or any abuse or racism could be identified in order to back up
Worksop’s claim. However, this only serves to quash Worksop’s claims with no
abusive or racist chants evident at all in the first half and only the
aforementioned few minutes of unacceptable language towards the end of the game.
This chanting was related to the miners strike of 24 years ago so to refer to it
as racist is completely over the top. For
Rinckavage to claim he heard constant abuse for the whole game is absurd.” As well as refuting Worksop’s claims in the Worksop Guardian Bywater is disappointed that Worksop have made the claims in the press without addressing concerns with anyone from Frickley. He said “It is little known outside of the club but we had a few issues at Ilkeston Town last season but we took the matter up with Ilkeston directly and it was resolved amicably between the two clubs. There was no slanging matches or threats in the press. We believe this is the correct way to address any problems so why Worksop couldn’t do this I don’t know.” 6th March Following the success of the Family Fun Days held over the
last two seasons Frickley Athletic are pleased to announce that this season’s
Family Fun Day will take place on Good Friday, 21st March, when
Frickley entertain local rivals Ossett Town at Westfield Lane. The entertainment will get under way from 1pm with numerous attractions for kids of all ages such as a Bouncy Castle, Bungee Trampoline, Slides and Face Painting, whilst food and refreshments will also be available. The “main event” kicks off at 3pm when Frickley take on Ossett Town As with previous seasons the Club are offering FREE admission to Under 16s who are accompanied by a paying adult with vouchers for this offer being distributed via local football clubs and schools, as well as being available for download by clicking here. 6th March
Commenting
on the deal, Big Fellas Clothing owner Chris Johnson said: “I’m excited
as a local business to be supporting the premier non league football club in the
area, and the shirt sponsorship until the end of the season is not only great
for business but also good for the football club after the fight they are
enduring this season. I’m very pleased to be able to continue to support the
club as both a fan and a sponsor” Frickley
Athletic Commercial Manager, Tom Grindel added “I’m delighted to build
upon our excellent relationship with Big Fellas Clothing. They are a superb
company who have been supporting the Club as an Official Partner for some time
so it is great for the Club that the name of such a loyal local firm will be on
our shirts for the rest of the season.” Meanwhile,
the Club are looking to secure both shirt and stadium sponsorship for the
2008/09 season as they look to build on the impressive performances and results
during the second half of the current season. Interested parties can obtain
further details from Tom Grindel on 07793 683306 or by e-mail, commercial@frickleyafc.co.uk. 2nd March
Prior to yesterday's match against Stamford the club were presented with the UniBond Premier Division "Club of the Month" Award for February 2008 by UniBond League representative Gareth Davis. Pictured above (left to right) is Ashley Vickers, Gareth Davis, Pete Bywater (Chairman) and Dean Wilburn. 13th December Billy Heath has this evening secured the services of striker Rob Pell from Guiseley. Heath beat off competition from several other UniBond Premier Division clubs for Pell's signature. Pell scored 10 goals for the Blues last season before leaving to join Guiseley in November 2006. However, things haven't worked out at Nethermoor with new boss Steve Kittrick allowing the 28 year old to leave. Meanwhile, winger Chris White has signed a contract with the club until the end of the season with the option of a further year. 9th December The Club have today confirmed Billy Heath's position as manager following his stint as caretaker-manager over the last few weeks since Mark Hancock's dismissal. Likewise, Mark Carroll is confirmed as assistant manager. The board are pleased with Heath's haul of 7 points from the last 4 matches and hope that this improvement in results will continue over the coming months to give the Club a realistic chance of avoiding relegation.
Heath took over the reigns at Frickley in October 2006 and
steered the Club away from the relegation zone but both Heath and
Carroll resigned from their positions just 9 matches into the current campaign
following a disappointing start to the season. However, after Mark Hancock's
ill-fated spell in charge Heath indicated that he and Carroll may
have been hasty in leaving the club initially and agreed to take charge in a
caretaker capacity with a view to being considered for the job on a
permanent basis. The subsequent upturn in results has satisfied the
Frickley board that Heath is capable of taking the club forwards from its
current position.
23rd November Caretaker-manager Billy Heath has boosted the Blues' squad with the signing of striker Neil Towler from Bridlington Town. Locally-based Towler has scored 10 goals for the UniBond First Divison North side but he was sent off last Saturday for the second time this season and serves a 4-match ban starting on 1st December. 11th November The board of Frickley Athletic have today relieved Mark
Hancock of his duties as manager of the Club. Unfortunately, performances on the
pitch since Hancock took over have not improved and the board feel that given
the club’s current position in the League that a new manager is required who
is capable of bringing in experienced players in key positions in order to move
the Club forward. Hancock took up the role as manager just over five weeks ago and in that time the Club have played seven competitive matches, winning one, drawing one and losing five. Potential managers interested in the post should contact Chairman Pete Bywater on 01977 648365 or 07831 778290 as soon as possible as the Club are hoping to appoint Hancock’s successor swiftly given the Club’s position. 11th November Frickley Athletic FC are delighted to announce a further Official Partnership with I H Caravans Ltd of South Yorkshire. I H Caravans are a caravan holiday letting agency who specialise in renting out privately owned caravans throughout the UK.
Tom Grindel, Commercial Manager for Frickley Athletic added, “It’s superb to have I H Caravans Ltd on board at Frickley. They are very keen football fans who are extremely enthusiastic about their link up with Frickley.” To celebrate their partnership with Frickley AFC, www.ihcaravans.co.uk
are giving away free entries to the Frickley Super 6 Lotto Draw with every
booking. Frickley Athletic FC still have a range of exciting main sponsorship and advertising options available for the rest of the season and beyond. Interested parties should contact Tom Grindel, Commercial Manager on 07793 683306 or by emailing commercial@frickleyafc.co.uk. 9th November Mark Hancock has signed two more players ahead of tomorrow's game against Leek Town. Former Frickley Under 19s striker Dean Wilburn has signed along with Jonathan Groome from Hatfield Main. Groome scored when trialling for Brodsworth against the Blues in last week's friendly. 5th November Midfielder Neil Redfearn has today left the club to join Bridlington Town. He is due to take up a new role and his availability for matches may be affected. Redfearn has therefore decided to take up an offer from Bridlington. 25th October The outstanding away UniBond League game at Guiseley has now been rearranged for Tuesday 11th December, k.o. 7.45pm. 19th October Mark Hancock has boosted his Frickley squad ahead of tomorrow's FA Trophy tie at Prescot Cables with the signing of two former Frickley players. Striker Steve Oleksewycz joins the club for the third time from Harrogate Railway whilst central defender Craig Marsh re-joins from Goole AFC. Both were registered in time to play tomorrow. However, midfielder Carl Wood has signed for NCEL side Scarborough Athletic after we agreed not to make Scarborough wait the required 7 days following their approach 2 days ago. 17th October The draw for the Third Round of the UniBond League Cup has given the Blues a trip to Ossett Town, with the tie due to be played on Tuesday 13th November. 16th October Mark Hancock has today signed 18-year old winger/striker Ashley Flynn from Kirkburton AFC. Flynn is a former Manchester United junior who has scored 9 goals so far this season and he goes into the squad for tonight's game against Whitby. However, Dean Jones will be missing through injury and Richard Marchant is on holiday. 10th October Mark Hancock has boosted his squad prior to tonight's game at Ilkeston Town with the signing of midfielder Richard Marchant from Ossett Town. Neil Redfearn returns to the squad after missing Saturday's game through suspension. 9th October Carcraft, the UK's longest established used car hypermarket group, are sponsoring the matchball for Frickley's match against Whitby Town at Westfield Lane on Tuesday 16th October, but they are also giving an added incentive for fans to attend the match. Representatives from Carcraft will be in attendance at the match to hand out vouchers offering free entry into a regional prize draw run by Carcraft's Leeds hypermarket. This will give fans a chance to win one of five major prizes including the £2,500 first prize. Established in 1951, Carcraft
is the The
company operates from ten locations across the 2nd October A fortnight after Billy Heath left his post as manager Frickley Athletic have appointed former Frickley favourite Mark Hancock as his successor. Hancock will be joined at Westfield Lane by Andy Hayward as player/assistant manager. Hancock enjoyed thirteen years as a player at Frickley after signing from local side Wharncliffe Arms. He then moved onto have a four-year spell with Bradford Park Avenue before re-joining Frickley as player/assistant manager to Phil Sharpe in 2002. However, after one season he left to take over as manager of the newly formed AFC Barnsley, where he spent three years as player/manager before the club’s demise in 2005. During this time he won two League titles and one Cup. Hancock then had a short spell as a player with Wakefield FC before moving on to become reserve team manager at Ossett Town. Hayward is also well know to Frickley fans having been a prolific scorer for the Blues in the 1993/94 season which saw him move into the professional game at Rotherham United. He then had spells at Doncaster Rovers, Hednesford Town and Barrow before returning to Frickley in 1999. However, just over a year later he left for Bradford Park Avenue and then moved on to Stalybridge Celtic in March 2004. The following summer Hayward moved to Ossett Town where he later became assistant manager, but he subsequently left to join North Ferriby United as a player during the summer of 2007. Hancock and Hayward will take charge of their first match on Saturday for the visit of Eastwood Town with the Blues still looking for their first win of the season. They will be without former Barnsley midfielder Neil Redfearn who serves a one-match suspension for his sending off at Ashton United but will be boosted by the news that centre half Steve Heath has been informed that he does not need a hernia operation and he could be back playing sooner rather than later. However, forward Nathan Hotte has left the club, having decided to re-join North Ferriby United. 20th September With senior players Chris Hilton, Jon Hood and Steve Robinson taking charge of the side for the next few games they have boosted the squad with the signing of the highly experienced Neil Redfearn this evening. Although now 42 years of age, Redfearn can still compete at UniBond League level and will give the side a much-needed lift going into Saturday's game at Ashton United.
Redfearn has made over 1000 competitive matches during his 25 year career
which began as a junior at Nottingham Forest before moving on to have spells
at Lincoln City, Doncaster Rovers, Crystal Palace, Watford and Oldham Athletic
before he really made his name at Barnsley where he spent 7 years before a £1
million move to Premiership Charlton Athletic followed. Redfearn went on
to make further moves to Bradford City, Wigan Athletic and Halifax Town
where he had his first taste of management in a caretaker capacity. He then
moved to Boston United and Rochdale before dropping out of the Football League
to join Scarborough, initially as a player but later as player-manager.
However, he resigned in June 2006 and later signed for Bradford Park Avenue
where he made his 1000th competitive appearnance in an FA Trophy tie against
Solihull Borough. He left Bradford in March 2007 to join Stocksbridge Park
Steels but then became manager of Northwich Victoria in the summer of 2007
before resigning from his post earlier this week.
17th September Frickley Athletic are looking for their third manager in
the last twelve months after Billy Heath has decided to resign from his position
following Saturday’s FA Cup defeat to local rivals Stocksbridge Park Steels.
Heath’s assistant Mark Carroll has also relinquished his position. Heath took over at the beginning of October last year
following the departure of Gary Marrow to Grantham Town and immediately revived
the club’s fortunes, moving the club comfortably into mid-table. But a slump
in form after Christmas, coupled with excellent runs from some of the relegation
candidates, had Frickley looking over their shoulders until a penultimate match
win over Kendal Town secured UniBond Premier Divison football for this season. With the addition of a couple of new players over the
summer Heath and Carroll had been expecting to start the season much better then
they have, but points have been hard to come by. Saturday’s FA Cup defeat to
Stocksbridge saw the club reach a new low, prompting Heath and Carroll to decide
they could take the Club no further. All at the Club wish to thank Billy Heath and Mark Carroll
for their efforts and wish them well in the future. Frickley are inviting applications for the vacant managers position either in writing to the Secretary, Steve Pennock, 3 Kingsley Crescent, Armthorpe, Doncaster, DN3 3JG, by e-mail to steve@pennocks.freeserve.co.uk or by phone on 07985 291074. 22nd August Local youngsters are
in for a treat after UniBond Premier Division side Frickley Athletic announced
plans to offer free season tickets for lucky junior fans. The South Elmsall-based
Club have circulated hundreds of vouchers around local junior football teams
which offer free entry to under 16’s who are accompanied by a parent or
guardian for the match against Fleetwood Town at Westfield Lane on Saturday 1st
September (k.o. 3pm). The first 100 junior fans through the turnstiles at the
match will be eligible to receive a free under 16’s season ticket which allows
them entry to all UniBond League Premier Division home games when accompanied by
a parent or guardian. The promotion is the
latest effort by the club to strengthen its links with the local community and
follows on from their successful Community Fun Days over the last two years
which have attracted the highest crowds of the season. Chairman Peter
Bywater commented, “We’ve always prided ourselves at being at the heart of
the local community and realise that the future of the club lies with our
younger supporters. As fans are priced out of League football we’re aiming to
offer them a quality, cost-effective alternative at a friendly club.” 19th July After suffering several knock backs over the summer with
their ground being broken into three times Frickley Athletic have suffered
another disappointment with the news that last year’s Main Club Sponsor, GMB
Union, have decided no to renew their sponsorship for the forthcoming season.
The deal with GMB covered not only the home and away shirt sponsorship but also
the naming rights to the ground and, contrary to reports in the Hemsworth &
South Elmsall Express, was worth around £12,000 to the South Elmsall club. Chairman Pete Bywater commented, “We are disappointed
that GMB have decided not to renew their sponsorship, especially so close to the
start of the new season, but we fully appreciate that they have had changes of
policy behind the scenes and we are not the only sporting organisation that GMB
have withdrawn sponsorship from. Going forwards we are already in talks with a
couple of interested companies but we are still keen to hear from any businesses
who feel they can help Frickley’s push for success for the coming season and
beyond.” The sponsorship loss comes after the Club have endured three break ins at their Westfield Lane ground over the summer. The first in late May cost the club approximately £2000 following damage to the clubhouse, club shop and facilities under the main stand whilst the clubhouse has suffered two further break ins either side of last Saturday’s first pre-season friendly against Farsley Celtic. These have cost the Club the best part of a further £2000 to repair the damage and install a security alarm. Mr Bywater went on to say, “The series of break-ins are soul-destroying after the amount of hard work and money that his been put into the ground over the last few years. But, we are a determined Club who will not be beaten by mindless vandalism.” 1st June Striker Lee Morris has signed a contract to keep him at the club until the end of the 2007/08 season. Meanwhile, manager Billy Heath, has been securing other members of the squad on non-contract forms. Of last season's squad Chris Hilton, Jon Hood, Adam Pollock, Ashley Vickers and Carl Wood have re-signed so far whilst Richard Tracey has signed back from North Ferriby United. 26th May The Blues can confirm their first pre-season friendly game of the summer with York City visiting the GMB Stadium on Wednesday 25th July, k.o. 7.30pm. This was part of the deal that took Martyn Woolford to York last August. 17th May For the third season running the Club are freezing admission prices with Adult entry for the 2007/08 season being £7, OAP £4, and Under 16s £2. Season Tickets will again be priced at £120 for Adults, £70 for OAPs/Concessions and £35 for Under 16s. These will be available from 25th May, with more details to follow. 7th May The Club have taken up the 1-year options on the contracts of Dean Jones and Danny Walsh so both will be contracted to the club for the 2007/08 season. 4th May Manager Billy Heath continues to assemble his squad for the coming season with inspirational centre-half Steve Heath signing a one-year contract to keep him at the club until at least the end of the 2007/08 season. The last few weeks has also seen numerous other signings as Heath looks towards the first pre-season game against Farsley Celtic which takes place a week on Saturday. These include Scott Turner and his brother Carl Turner, midfielder Craig Burdick from Barton Town (ex Bridlington Town and Goole AFC), right full-back Adam Deakin from Scunthorpe United, goalkeeper Andy Jeffrey (ex Bradford Park Avenue who played one game for the Blues last season), left sided midfielder Ryan Morton (former Doncaster Rovers triallist), defender Steve Robinson from Winterton Rangers, midfielder Martin Thacker as well as Joseph Clement, Adam Nicklin and Joshua Moore from local football. 29 May The Club suffered a set-back last Thursday morning when it was discovered that the ground had been broken into in the early hours. The intruders smashed their way into the main stand before breaking into the clubhouse, snack bar, club shop and tannoy announcers box. As very little was actually stolen it appears that the target was cash - which is hardly ever kept on the premises - but at a rough estimate it is anticipated that the cost to repair the damage could be as much as £2500. 27 May Everyone who attended Friday night's Sportsman's Dinner will no doubt agree that the evening was a thoroughly enjoyable one with 'Razor' Ruddock and comedian Jimmy Bright both on great form. The night saw three presentations with Steve Kennedy being re-presented with his Supporters Player of the Year award whilst Steve Heath received the Players Player award and Danny Walsh received the Managers' award. Unfortunately, it appears that Kennedy has played his last game for the club as he has indicated to manager Billy Heath that he is looking to move to a club nearer his home for next season.
2nd May Frickley Athletic FC are appealing for volunteers to be
stewards for next season. Volunteers will not necessarily be expected to be
available to steward at every game but they will be entitled to free admission
along with a free drink and pie/burger at every game that they steward. There is also the possibility of prospective stewards
attending a UniBond League Steward Training Course over the summer which would
lead to a Nationally recognised qualification. 28th April Frickley Athletic regret to
announce that long standing Committee Member Ken Day sadly passed away late on
Thursday afternoon in Pontefract General Infirmary. Ken was 86 years of age and
had been a Frickley Athletic Club Official for almost 30 years, initially as a
Vice-President before joining the Club’s Management Committee in 1988. Also a keen cricket enthusiast
Ken played for Hooton Pagnell and then captained South Kirkby Colliery’s 2nd
team until retiring at 56 when he became an umpire. He also became Chairman of
South Kirkby Colliery Cricket Club and Umpires Secretary for the Doncaster &
District Cricket League. His working life saw him work for
both Hemsworth Rural Council and Wakefield District Council as a painter in the
Housing Department. He also served in the RAF as an aircraft mechanic during
World War Two. Ken has been a widdower for 23
years and has one son, Brian. Ken’s funeral has been arranged
for 12:00 on Wednesday 9th May at St Mary’s Church, Badsworth. This
will be followed by a cremation at 1pm. All at the Club send their deepest sympathy to Ken's family and friends. Witton Albion have kindly agreed
to hold a minute’s silence in memory of Ken before the kick off of today’s
Witton Albion v Frickley Athletic game. 21st April With voting taking place at today's game for the Supporters Player of the Year, immediately following today's match club captain Steve Kennedy (right) was presented with the trophy by nine-year old Josh Lane.
4th April The Club would like to thank all
those who have helped with ground improvements over the last 12 months and
especially since Christmas when a tremendous amount of work has been done in a
short period of time at the ground. All this has been well worthwhile with the
FA/UniBond League inspectors visiting the ground on Monday afternoon and being
suitably impressed with the improvements that have been carried out. Without the help of these
dedicated supporters and willing volunteers it is unlikely that we would have
been able to complete the required work in time but thanks to everyone who
helped at any point this has been achieved. Thanks also to those who have
contributed towards the bucket collections and to Edgar Matthews who has done
the Club proud by taking the collection bucket around the ground for most
matches. These collections have raised £758 this season which has helped
tremendously towards the cost of materials for the ground improvements. However, the work doesn’t stop
now. Over the summer we will endeavour to complete the terracing of the two
small grassed areas just beyond the Snack Bar. This will eliminate all soft
standing areas from the ground as well as continuing to improve the overall look
of the ground. It will also help us to increase our ground capacity, which has
recently been calculated by Wakefield MDC to be 2,087. 26th March Following the success of last year’s “Family Fun Day”
when over 900 people were in attendance for Frickley Athletic’s 1-1 draw with
North Ferriby United, Frickley are repeating the event for this year’s Good
Friday UniBond Premier League game against neighbours Ossett Town on Friday 6th
April. With doors opening at 1pm the attractions on offer will appeal to kids of all ages. These will include a bouncy castle, sumo suits, barfly, pole jousting and a face painter. This will be followed by the main event as Frickley Athletic take on local rivals Ossett Town at 3pm. Admission to the game and attractions is FREE to all under 16s with doors opening at 1pm. Tickets for this event are being distributed via local schools and junior football teams as well as being available to download (click here) and being published in the club’s official newspaper, the Hemsworth & South Elmsall Express. 8th March
A limited number of VIP tables are also available costing £600 for a table of ten. These tables will be situated in close vicinity to 'Razor' and will allow more time to be spent to chat with 'Razor' along with photo opportunities with corporate literature. Businesses taking up these tables will be publicised as official sponsors of the Dinner which will include publicity in the local press as well as in various other media outlets (ie websites, etc). There will also be an opportunity to display promotional leaflets, etc. Individual tickets or VIP tables can be booked by contacting Penny Wall on 07967 434285 or Tom Grindel on 07793 683306. Alternatively, e-mail info@frickleyafc.co.uk. 25th February Frickley Athletic are appealing for volunteers to come and
help with ground improvements at their GMB Stadium over the next three Saturdays
(3rd, 10th and 17th March) when the first team
currently have no matches scheduled. Anyone who can spare an hour or so from 9am
onwards will be most welcome. Work at the ground has progressed well over the last few
months but the club require as much help as possible to ensure that the ground
is in tip-top condition for when it receives a further ground grading inspection
at the end of March. By then the club will be expected to satisfy all the
relevant criteria to receive a Grade C. It is hoped that there will be enough volunteers this
coming weekend (3rd March) to repair the roof of the covered standing
area which was damaged in the high winds at the beginning of the year, along
with laying further concrete for the terrace extension. The following few weeks will require the completion of the
concreting, the turnstiles to be tidied up, an extension to the fence at the
“allotment end” of the ground, completion of the new treatment room under
the stand and a general tidy up of the ground. All of this should be able to be completed comfortably within the required timescale so long as enough volunteers are forthcoming. The response to appeals for help has been good in the past, hopefully this will continue over the next few weeks. 16th February With the Blues down to the 'bare bones' for tomorrow's trip to Burscough assistant manager Mark Carroll has signed three players to bolster the squad. These are James Tomlinson, Carl Wood and Martin Wood. Tomlinson is a former Hull City junior and reserve team player who has also played with Bridlington Town. Carl Wood is a former North Ferriby United and Hall Road Rangers midfield player whilst his brother Martin has also been on the books at Hall Road. 14th February The Blues have received a boost today with the news that
leading goalscorer Paul Palmer has rejected a move back to his previous club,
Goole AFC. Goole had submitted a 7-day notice of approach early last week but
Palmer has decided to stay at the GMB Stadium. This comes on the back of the
Blues being unsuccessful in their bid to lure striker-cum-defender Brett Lovell
from Grantham Town who have increased the player’s wage in order to keep him
at Grantham. However, more good news will see manager Billy Heath return to active involvement at the club within the next week or so, most likely in time for the home fixture against Matlock Town. Heath has been unable to take more than a passing involvement in the club since the first week in January due to a sudden increase in work commitments but these are now well under control leaving Heath once again able to devote the required time and effort into managing the club. Heath is currently closing in on a couple of new faces to boost the Blues’ squad which is currently light on numbers. This is no more so than on Saturday when the Blues are without the suspended duo of Steve Kennedy and Lee Morris whilst Paul Palmer is unavailable. Over the last few days assistant manager Mark Carroll has secured the signature of two players, Ross Haywood and Nick Ball. Haywood is a left sided player from Winterton Rangers whilst Ball has signed from local football. 24th January Midfielder Neil Ashley is the latest Frickley player to opt to join former Blues' manager Gary Marrow at bottom club Grantham Town after they submitted an approach a fortnight ago. The club tried to persuade Ashley to stay but couldn't compete with the money being offered by Grantham. Also, Wayne Wallace has been released so that he can return to Bridlington Town. 19th January Richard Tracey (left) has today left the club to join North Ferriby United who had submitted an approach for the player last week. Also, Carl Giblin has been released and is expected to re-join former club Bridlington Town. 12th January Midfielder Martin Thacker has decided to leave the club and has returned to former club Goole AFC. However, Steve Heath returns to the side after suspension for tomorrow's game at Fleetwood Town with the Blues also hoping to have a new face in the squad. 20th December The Club are appealing for volunteers to help with work at the ground on Thursday 28th December from 9am. Whether its only for an hour or for most of the day, any help will be appreciated. Simply turn up in appropriate clothing and footwear any time from 9am. The 'working day' has been planned to help continue with the terrace improvements and other areas that the club need to address following a ground grading inspection in October. The items that need addressing are : to complete the concreting (ie the terrace extension on the far side of the ground and the soft standing areas in front of the fence behind the goal at the allotment end and between the snack bar and the corner of the ground), construct a player treatment room (which is planned for under the stand in part of the old bar) and to tidy up the turnstiles as well as a few other minor things such as signs, etc. It is planned to have these items complete by the end of February so all help will be greatly appreciated. 15th December Striker Mark Ward has today left the club to join Gary Marrow at Grantham Town. Grantham submitted a 7-day approach nearly a fortnight ago and Ward has decided to leave the Blues to aid Marrow's fight against relegation. As well as the management team, he joins Gary Ingham, Alex Callery and Lee Stratford at The South Kesteven Stadium. 13th December The Club are appealing for volunteers to help distribute match advertising posters around the local area. The areas in question are South Elmsall, South Kirkby, Hemsworth, Upton, Hooton Pagnell and Ackworth. Anyone able to help can download the posters from www.pennocks.freeserve.co.uk/posters.html or contact Secretary Steve Pennock on 07985 291074. This follows concern over the drop in home attendances this season compared to those of last season. Attendances have been lower than expected right from the start of the season when only 235 turned up for the opening home game of the campaign against Whitby Town. Considering the success of last season and the expectation of being able to emulate that success this season this ‘gate’ was somewhat disappointing. From then on the trend has pretty much continued with ‘gates’ now settling at the 200 mark. With Billy Heath now assembling a capable side which has lost just one UniBond League match in the last nine and has moved to the fringes of the play-off places the attendance of 202 for Tuesday night’s match against Gateshead was equally disappointing. With no live football on terrestrial TV and only Doncaster Rovers at home locally surely a ‘gate’ of at least 250 wasn’t unreasonable to expect? In another attempt to boost attendances the Club are arranging to distribute tickets to local schools offering free admission to children who are accompanied by a full-paying adult, for the home game against Marine on Saturday 27th January. There will also be a voucher in the Hemsworth & South Elmsall Express offering the same incentive. The Club have just submitted an application for promotion to Conference North should the Blues finish in a qualifying position at the end of the season. We are therefore appealing to local football fans to back the Club’s ambitions and Heath’s team by giving your support for the remaining eight home UniBond Premier Division matches of the season to help the Club’s ambitions come to fruition.
8th December Frickley Athletic manager Billy Heath has bolstered his squad over the last few days with the acquisition of 2 more players. Versatile defender Carl Giblin has joined from UniBond First Division Bridlington Town whilst striker Lee Morris has signed from Conference North side Stalybridge Celtic. Twenty-two year old Giblin is essentially a centre-half but is equally at home in any of the back-four positions. He progressed through the ranks at Queensgate and won three player of the year awards at Bridlington last season. Morris is no stranger to the GMB Stadium having spent two seasons with Frickley before being sold to Harrogate Town at the end of the 2003/04 season after finishing as the club’s top scorer. He also had a month at Frickley last season in which he scored one goal in four games. Unfortunately, injury curtailed his spell at Harrogate and he had a spell on loan at Wakefield-Emley before moving on to Droylsden, Hucknall Town and latterly Stalybridge Celtic, with whom he played against the Blues as a second half substitute in the this season’s FA Cup replay.
Coupled with the two new signings the Blues have also rebuffed an approach from Grantham Town for club captain Steve Kennedy.
The news comes at an important point in the season for Frickley. Despite the recent loss of leading scorer Rob Pell to Guiseley, an impressive run of four wins in their last six UniBond League games has seen the Blues move away from the relegation zone to a comfortable ninth position in the table. Although they have played at least a game more than most of those around them the Blues now stand just five points away from the play-off places. The next few matches could prove crucial to the remainder of the season as if the Blues can continue their recent form then they could well emerge as contenders for a play-off place – which would be an outstanding achievement considering the position the Blues were in when Heath took over the reigns from Gary Marrow in early October. 1st December Midfielder Paul Rickers has today been released so that he can join Goole AFC who made an approach for the player last week. 24th November Billy Heath has today brought another former Blues' player back to the GMB Stadium with the signing of Kieron O'Brien from Goole AFC. O'Brien previously played for the Blues under Phil Sharpe and was with Guiseley last season. 24th November The Blues have today lost the services of leading scorer Rob Pell who has decided to join Guiseley following them submitting a 7-day approach last week. However, joining the club is 21 year-old goalkeeper Andy Jeffrey from Bradford Park Avenue who is likely to deputise for the suspended Jon Hood tomorrow against Radcliffe Borough. 20th November Billy Heath has added to his squad with the signing of 21 year old winger Dean Sidebottom from Sheffield FC and 20 year old defender Dean Twibey from Scunthorpe United. Heath is also expected to complete the signing of a goalkeeper with Jon Hood suspended for Saturday's game against Radcliffe Borough. 10th November Mark Crossfield has today left to join Wakefield FC who had submitted a 7 day notice of approach earlier this week. With Crossfield unlikely to be involved for the Blues on Saturday Billy Heath agreed to allow Crossfield to move in time to be able to play for Wakefield at the weekend instead. Lee Stratford is due to move to Grantham on Sunday after they submitted a 7 day notice of approach last weekend and the player has indicated the desire to leave the club. 9th November Billy Heath has today re-signed Steve Robinson from Bradford Park Avenue with Robinson due to be available for Saturday's UniBond Premier Division game against leek Town. 3rd November The Club have agreed a deal with Grantham Town which will see last season's top scorer Alex Callery join Grantham over the weekend. Callery's performances haven't been up to the same high standard as last season and he has appeared unsettled at the club over the last month or so. The club have therefore accepted an offer which sees Callery join former boss Gary Marrow at Grantham. 25th October The draw for the Sheffield & Hallamshire Senior Cup Second Round sees the Blues travel to AFC Emley on Wednesday 8th November, kick off 7.45pm. This means that the away UniBond Premier Division game at Grantham Town will be postponed. Also, Billy Heath has signed midfielder Martin Thacker from Goole AFC. The club's AGM has been arranged for Monday 20th November at the Minsthorpe Hotel at 7.30pm. 20th October Billy Heath has bolstered his squad ahead of tomorrow's FA Carlsberg Trophy tie against Cammell Laird by signing defender Danny Moore from North Ferriby United and forward Ben Eastwood from Bridlington Town as well as signing reserve team player Oliver Pinnell on UniBond league forms. Moore is a twenty six year old right sided player who progressed through North Ferriby's reserve team to the first team where he scored the winning penalty in Ferriby's play-off shoot-out victory over the Blues. Eastwood is a former Hull City schoolboy who came through Goole's U19s to play for their first team in 2004/05 before moving to Bridlington Town in December 2005. The signing boosts Heath's squad which was starting to look a little bare for tomorrow's game with Steve Heath cup-tied, Lee Stratford serving a one-match suspension and Steve Kennedy ruled out with injury. Dean Jones and Calum Selby are also doubtful with both due to have fitness tests prior to the game whist Dean Foley is unavailable. 19th October Billy Heath has captured the signature of striker Paul Palmer from Goole AFC, although he isn't eligible to play in Saturday's Carlsberg FA Trophy tie as he played for Goole in the Preliminary Round. Palmer has scored 7 times already this season for Goole and was a prolific scorer previously at Bridlington Town. 16th October Billy Heath has today added to his squad by signing his younger brother Steve Heath from Stocksbridge Park Steels. A 28 year-old centre half, Steve Heath, is a former England Schoolboy International who started out at Leeds United, Carlisle United and Rotherham United before having spells at Matlock Town, Ilkeston Town, Alfreton Town and Bridlington Town as well as spending the latter stages of last season at Frickley. 13th October Billy Heath has added another goalkeeper to his squad by signing 25 year old Jody Barford from Lincoln United. Along with Jamie Green, Barford will provide competition for Jon Hood. 9th October Following Grantham Town submitting 7 days notice of approach for Gary Ingham last week the popular goalkeeper has decided to join Gary Marrow's new outfit. However, manager Billy Heath has moved quickly to secure a replacement 'keeper for tomorrow evening's match against Grantham by re-signing former Blues' keeper Jon Hood from Ossett Town. 5th October Just nine days after the departure of Gary Marrow to
Grantham Town Frickley Athletic have unveiled former Bridlington Town manager
Billy Heath as their new Manager with Mark Carroll joining as his assistant. After a successful playing career at senior non-league
level thirty-six-year-old Heath enjoyed five successful seasons as manager at
Bridlington, leading them to promotion from the NCEL First Division as
runners-up in his first full season. The following season he led Bridlington to
the NCEL Premier Division title and with it gained promotion to the UniBond
League First Division as well as reaching the Fourth Qualifying Round of the FA
Cup and the FA Vase quarter finals. Heath’s first season in the UniBond League
culminated in an 11th placed finish and with it earned Bridlington a
place in the newly restructured UniBond Premier Division. However, after coming so far in such a short space of time,
Bridlington were relegated back to the UniBond First Division after just one
season. But, the following season, Heath again had Bridlington challenging at
the top of the table but he resigned in March 2006 due to much publicised
financial problems at the club although Bridlington were in a play-off position at
the time. Carroll was Heath’s assistant at Bridlington, having been an apprentice at Hull City alongside Heath before moving into non-league football at the likes of Hall Road Rangers, North Ferriby United and Bridlington Town. Heath takes charge of his first game on Saturday as Frickley travel to Radcliffe Borough looking to halt a run of five successive Premier Division defeats. However, Heath will be heartened by Frickley’s performances in the FA Cup against Stalybridge Celtic whereby a depleted Frickley side pushed Celtic all the way before bowing out by a solitary goal in the replay. Unfortunately, he is likely to be without the services of the injured Danny Walsh and Richard Tracey although the squad has been boosted by the return of striker Ashley Scothern who has signed from Ossett Town. 26th September Frickley Athletic regret to announce the departure of manager Gary Marrow who has decided to accept the position of manager at UniBond Premier Division rivals Grantham Town. It is expected that assistant manager Mark Ogley, coach Alan Ogley and physio Mick Gilbert will join Marrow at Grantham although the latter three took charge of the Frickley side for tonight’s visit to Guiseley. Marrow joined Frickley for the second time two years ago when the club were bottom of the UniBond Premier Division and led the club to safety. He followed that up last season with the most successful season that the club have enjoyed for twenty years as Frickley finished runners-up to Blyth Spartans in the UniBond Premier Division. Unfortunately, Frickley bowed out of the promotion play-offs at the first attempt. The Committee at Frickley wish to thank Gary Marrow
and his staff for their efforts at the club and wish them well in the future. 26th September In addition to Gary Marrow's departure Pete Bywater has decided that he will step down as Chairman due to business and family commitments. However, he will continue to fulfill the role for the next month or so until plans are in place to appoint his successor. 31st August After much speculation and interest from various clubs over recent weeks Frickley Athletic can confirm that left winger Martyn Woolford has today signed for Nationwide Conference side York City for an undisclosed five-figure fee. The club will also receive a percentage of any transfer fee received by York City for Woolford in the future and York have agreed to play Frickley in a friendly at the GMB Stadium prior to the 2007/08 season. Twenty year old Woolford joined the Blues at the start of last season from Glasshoughton Welfare and was an instant hit with Woolford contributing fourteen goals and numerous assists as the Blues finished runners-up in the UniBond League Premier Division. His progress prompted Frickley to offer him a contract last October which he duly signed. During the summer Stockport County took Woolford on trial to Ibiza and it looked likely that Woolford would join them but an offer was never forthcoming. Both York City and Hartlepool United have been tracking him recently and it was York who made Woolford an offer that he has decided to take. The Club wishes to place on record its thanks to Martyn Woolford for his efforts for the Club and wish him all the best in his future career. 24th August Frickley Athletic are bracing themselves for the possibility of losing one of their crop of impressive young players with York City showing a keen interest in left winger Martyn Woolford and they are expected to be about to table an offer of a significant fee for Woolford's signature. York are the latest club to show an interest in Woolford who terrorised defences and scored 14 goals for the South Elmsall-based side last season as they just missed out on the UniBond Premier Division title. During the summer he spent a week on trial in Ibiza with Stockport County and he has also recently attracted the attention of Hartlepool United as well as UniBond Premier Division rivals Guiseley who have recently received substantial financial backing. Tuesday night saw Woolford open his account for this season as he notched the equaliser as Frickley came back from 2-1 down to beat Whitby Town 3-2. 20th August Gary Marrow has added to his squad by signing 18-year-old goalkeeper Jamie Green and 23 year old midfielder Remo Nesa. Green, who was released by Sheffield United during the summer, has signed as cover for Gary Ingham after impressing during pre-season. Nesa played for the Blues previously under Phil Sharpe and has signed from Glasshoughton Welfare. 12th August The Blues completed their pre-season matches with a comfortable 3-0 win over Wakefield FC at the GMB Stadium this afternoon. Dean Jones (left) opened the scoring after 30 minutes, heading in Calum Selby's cross after a corner had been cleared. Six minutes later it was 2-0 as Martyn Woolford turned and fired into the top left hand corner through a crowded penalty area. Woolford missed a chance to score again mid-way through the second half when he went around the 'keeper but took too long to shoot and his effort was blocked. However, substitute Richard Tracey sealed the win by tapping in the third on 82 minutes. Frickley : Ingham (Green 55), Robinson (Pollock 55), Selby, Ashley, Kennedy, Jones, Callery (Tracey 55), Walsh (Ashcroft 55), Pell (Evans 55), Pugh, Woolford 5th August With a fortnight to go to the start of the season Gary Marrow has signed up most of last season's squad and also added a couple of new faces. 21-year-old defender Adam Pollock has joined from AFC Barnsley whilst 26 year-old midfielder Danny Walsh has signed a 1 year contract having previously played UniBond Premier Division football with Bradford Park Avenue and Ossett Town. Gary Ingham, Steve Robinson, Calum Selby, Neil Ashley, Lee Pugh, Rob Pell, Mark Crossfield, Richard Tracey and Mark Ward have all signed non-contract forms whilst Steve Kennedy, Alex Callery and Martyn Woolford are still under contract. Andy Evans as not signed as yet as he is expecting to move back to Wales before the season starts. 4th August The Blues suffered a 3-1 defeat to York City's first team at the GMB Stadium this evening. Playing in their change strip of all white Frickley had the better of the first half but without scoring. However, York took the lead with a 57th minute penalty from Nathan Peat following handball by Dean Jones. Clayton Donaldson added a second on 75 minutes but substitute Mark Crossfield pulled a goal back 3 minutes later following a good cross from Calum Selby. However, Donaldson added a third for York a minute from time. Frickley : Ingham, Robinson (Laight 88), Selby, Ashley, Kennedy, Jones (Pollock 73), Ward (Tracey 64), Walsh, Pell (Evans 64), Pugh, Woolford (Crossfield 64) 1st August Martyn Woolford scored for the Blues as they drew 1-1 with Worksop Town this evening. Rob Pell had a first half penalty saved after Woolford had been brought down before Woolford gave the Blues the lead after 61 minutes when the Worksop 'keeper dropped Mark Ward's cross. The visitors, who were reduced to 10 men on 67 minutes, scored an undeserved equaliser through Tony Crane on 83 minutes. Frickley : Ingham, Robinson (Laight 43), Selby, Ashley, Kennedy, Jones, Crossfield (Evans 56), Walsh, Pell (Ward 74), Ward (Pollock 68), Woolford 29th July The Blues gained their first pre-season victory with a 2-1 win at Hall Road Rangers this afternoon. A Rob Pell penalty for hand ball on the stroke of half time gave the Blues the lead before the hosts equalised through Darren Wilson on 47 minutes. Following several substitutions Mark Crossfield scored the Blues' winner on 76 minutes, volleying in following a Calum Selby corner. Frickley : Jamie Green (Andy Naylor 51), Steve Robinson, Adam Pollock (Calum Selby 46), Neil Ashley, Steve Kennedy (Craig Laight 60), Dean Jones, Alex Callery (Shane Rose 46), Danny Walsh, Rob Pell (Mark Crossfield 46), Mark Ward (Adam Pollock 66), Martyn Woolford. 26th July The Blues' new reserve side lost their first friendly 2-0 this evening at Nostell MW. The fixtures for the Sheffield County Senior League Division 2 have been published with the Blues starting the season away at Millmoor Juniors on Saturday 26th August. Click here 25th July The Blues drew 1-1 with a Sheffield United XI in tonight's friendly at the GMB Stadium. Rob Pell gave the Blues a 13th minute lead, heading in an Alex Callery corner. Mark Ward missed two good chances to increase the lead before the Blades equalised almost on the stroke of half time. The Blades enjoyed more of the possession in the second half and went close to taking the lead on a few occasions. However, the Blues rallied with Callery playing in Ward who fired wide when well placed on 80 minutes. Frickley : Naylor (Green), S. Robinson, Pollock, Ashley, Kennedy (Laight 85), Jones, Callery, Walsh (Rose 80), Pell (I. Robinson 85), Ward, Woolford (Crossfield 65) 22nd July After taking the lead within 2 minutes of kick off in their opening pre-season friendly at Armthorpe Welfare the Blues suffered a 3-2 defeat. Alex Callery (left) opened the scoring, latching onto Steve Robinsons' throw only for Liam Radford to equalise on 29 minutes. Robinson put the Blues ahead on 49 minutes before a defensive lapse saw Armthorpe equalise again 7 minutes later. With both sides making numerous substitutions the home side capitalised on more poor defending to score the winner following a corner with 15 minutes to play. Starting XI : Green, Robinson, Ward, Ashley, Kennedy, Jones, Callery, Pugh, Pell, Pollock, Crossfield. 19th July Frickley Athletic are pleased to announce that GMB Union are the club's main sponsor for season 2006/07. The record breaking five-figure sum sees the GMB Union branding emblazoned across both the club's home and away strips whilst Westfield Lane will now be known as the GMB Stadium. Click here 19th July The Club have announced details of admission prices for the home pre-season friendly matches. Admission against Sheffield Utd, Worksop Town and Wakefield FC will be £5 for Adults, £3 for OAPs and £2 for Children, whilst these will be reduced to £3 (Adults), £2 (OAPs) and £1 (Children) for the visit of Winterton Rangers. Steve Heath has opted to leave the club and has signed for Stocksbridge Park Steels whilst Ossett Town have confirmed that Matt Daly has signed for them. Meanwhile, Gary Marrow has agreed terms with two players although neither have yet put pen to paper. Goalkeeper Gary Ingham will miss the first few friendlies due to holidays with Marrow currently finding cover for him. 13th July Although a little later than anticipated, the 2005/06 home Season Review DVD is now available priced at £7 (plus £1 postage and packing if required). Lasting over 45 minutes it includes over 70 goals, numerous near misses and three penalty shoot-outs plus footage of the UniBond Premier Division Runners-Up runners-up trophy presentation after the Burscough match. Orders can be taken via e-mail. 8th July Gary Marrow has today made his first acquisition in readiness for the 2006/07 campaign with the signing of central defender Dean Jones on a one year contract. It will be twenty-eight year old Jones' third spell at the club having originally joined the Blues from Barnsley prior to the 1998/99 season. He then had a spell at Ilkeston before returning to Frickley but moves followed to both Belper Town and Bradford Park Avenue where Jones has spent 2 seasons with each club. He spent the last month of last season on loan at Ossett Town from Bradford Park Avenue. However, left full-back Ritchie Butler has decided to move nearer his home and has signed for Ilkeston Town. 7th July The draw for the 1st Qualifying Round of the FA Cup sponsored by E.ON has given the Blues a tough trip to Whitby Town - a match that comes just 3 days after the Blues travel to Whitby in the League. However, the Blues have a home draw in the 1st Qualifying Round of the FA Trophy with Cammell Laird or Rossendale United due to visit Westfield Lane. Click here 28th June The Blues have received a pre-season boost with the news that last season's leading goalscorer Alex Callery has rejected a move to Conference North side Harrogate Town in favour of remaining at Westfield Lane. Town have been pursuing Callery for the past few weeks but after being given permission to speak to the Wetherby Road side Callery decided against the move. However, left-winger Martyn Woolford has the chance to earn himself a move to the professional game after the club agreed for him to go on a week's trial at Stockport County. Woolford is due to travel with County's squad to their pre-season tournament in Ibiza early in July. Meanwhile, manager Gary Marrow has agreed terms with an as yet un-named centre half to replace the departed Matt Daly and is also in negotiations with two other players to add to his Frickley squad. Also, the UniBond League have made entry to the Chairman's Cup and President's Cup optional for the coming season. Frickley Athletic have opted not to participate in either competition should we be knocked out of the main League Cup competition. 18th June A brief update of happenings over the last fortnight : Chris Adam has left the club and has signed for his former club Ilkeston Town whilst Matt Daly has indicated his intention to leave but it is not yet known if he has put pen to paper for another club. Pre-season training commences in a fortnight's time so those coming, going and staying should become clearer after then. Finally, the club have decided to run a Reserve side next season and have been accepted into the Sheffield County Senior League. The reserves will run in place of the Under 19s side 10th May Frickley Athletic can announce their first pre-season game of the summer with Neil Warnock agreeing to bring a Sheffield United side to the Millennium Worldwide Stadium. The Premiership newcomers will visit on Tuesday 25th July, kick off at 7.45pm. 9th May The Club have released details of admission and season ticket prices for season 2006/07. Matchday admission prices will remain the same at £7 for Adults, £4 for OAPs and £2 for Under 16s. Adult season tickets will also remain the same at £120 but OAPs/Students will increase to £70 and Under 16s to £35. As a special offer the Club are introducing a range of 'Extra' season tickets which will include a replica shirt in the price. These will cost £145 for Adults, £95 for OAPs/Students and £60 for Under 16s. Season tickets will be available from next week by completing and returning the downloadable application form. For those purchasing the 'Extra' tickets the replica shirts will become available much nearer the season once the new strip is available. 9th May Frickley Athletic’s impressive 2005/06 campaign has seen
numerous professional clubs visit the Millennium Worldwide Stadium. Scouts have
been viewing Athletics’ crop of
young players with the club having a battle to hang on to the likes of 20 year
old left winger Martyn Woolford who has terrorised UniBond Premier Division
defences over the last nine months. Woolford has attracted the attention of
clubs at various levels ranging from York City in the Nationwide Conference to
Premiership newcomers Sheffield United and seems the most likely of the club’s
young stars to move to a higher level over the summer. Frickley Manager Gary Marrow commented, “Martyn has great natural talent, a superb attitude, an impressive turn of pace and also instinctively knows where the goal is. He’s improved considerably over the season and will only continue to improve so it has come as no surprise to have professional clubs taking a strong interest in him.” Marrow went on to add, “Obviously, we’d all love him to stay at Frickley for next season to help challenge for the UniBond Premier Division title again but we have no intention of blocking any player’s progress so long as the offer is right for both the club and the player.” The club have taken up the one year option on the contracts of Woolford, club captain Steve Kennedy and top scorer Alex Callery as Marrow looks to keep the majority of last season’s squad as well as strengthen it in a couple of areas as the club aim to go one better next season and seal promotion to Nationwide Conference North. 29th April The Club have been informed by the Football Conference that they do not consider that Frickley's Millennium Worldwide Stadium meets the criteria for the FA Grade "C" and therefore will not consider Frickley Athletic for promotion. However, with the backing of the UniBond League, the club have appealed to the FA and hope that they will overturn the Football Conference's decision. The main item of concern is that the Club is required to erect a fence to prevent access to the grass bankings at either end of the ground. The club were informed on 30th March by the Conference that this would require erecting by 31st May but yet some 4 weeks before this deadline they have informed us that we are no longer eligible for promotion. The Conference, UniBond League and FA all have differing views on the type of fence required but we have now agreed with the UniBond League to erect a wooden post and rail fence, the materials of which have now been ordered and work will start as soon as possible. Any help that supporters can give in terms of finance and especially labour will be greatly appreciated. If you are able to help then please contact Steve Pennock, Paul Graves or Pete Bywater. Alternatively see any club official at the ground. The Conference have also questioned the ground's capacity and to this end arrangements have been made with WMDC to assess the capacity as soon as possible. It is the Club's intention to complete the repair of the terracing on the covered standing side of the ground as soon as possible to help our cause. Therefore, help will be appreciated on Tuesday morning from anyone who is available from around 9.30am as a delivery of concrete is scheduled for 10.30am. 7th April
Frickley Athletic FC are
pleased to announce the Hemsworth and South Elmsall Express as "The
Official Newspaper of Frickley Athletic FC". The paper which covers the
South East of the Wakefield District has recently transformed itself into a
fully paid for publication with up to 4 pages each week dedicated to Frickley
Athletic FC. The Official Partnership deal will see large Express banners displayed
at Millennium Worldwide Stadium whilst ongoing promotions in the
community will advertise forthcoming Frickley Athletic matches and the
newspaper will eventually be sold on matchday's too. Frickley Commercial
Manager Tom Grindel said " The re-launch of the Hemsworth and South
Elmsall Express means significantly more media coverage for Frickley Athletic
FC in the local community, this is sure to help the club
attract even more fans to Millennium Worldwide Stadium whilst keeping our
loyal fans well informed with the latest news and match reports, particularly
at a time when the club is performing so well"
The Hemsworth and South
Elmsall Express is on sale every Thursday at your local outlet for just 35p.
Alternatively visit www.hemsworthandsouthelmsalltoday.co.uk
1st April Thanks to everyone who has donated to the ground improvement bucket collections. So far the money raised has contributed towards the construction of the new exit pathway to the side of the Snack Bar as well as helped with the purchase the new gents toilet block behind the Snack Bar. Please continue to contribute towards the bucket collections with extra funds being required to pay for the terrace repair in the far side of the ground. 30th March Gary Marrow has added to his squad before tomorrow's transfer deadline by signing goalkeeper Craig Parry from Bradford Park Avenue as cover for Gary Ingham. 25th March This morning Gary Marrow has made a further addition to the Blues' squad with the signing of striker Mark Ward from Hucknall Town. Ward was previously with Gary at Belper Town from where he moved into the professional game with Lincoln City before returning to Belper and then joining Hucknall in 2003. 24th March Gary Marrow last night signed 28 year old defender Steve Heath from Bridlington Town and he goes into the squad for tomorrow's trip to Leek Town. 16th March The Blues have boosted their promotion hopes with the acquisition of experienced striker Peter Duffield from Alfreton Town. 37-year-old Duffield joins Gary Marrow’s side as player-coach, initially on loan to the end of the season but is likely to remain with the Blues for at least the next campaign. The former Sheffield United, Rotherham United, Raith Rovers, Blackpool, Stockport County, York City and Boston United striker averaged a goal every second match whilst in the professional game, scoring more than 150 goals in over 350 professional appearances whilst he also notched 29 goals for Alfreton last season in Conference North. Blues’ manager Gary Marrow is confident that Duffield can add the extra bit of fire-power that has been lacking in recent games to help Frickley continue their push for the UniBond Premier Division title. 11th March With a hectic run-in to the end of the season on the cards Gary Marrow has re-signed Calum Selby from Gateshead. 9th March With Frickley Athletic’s UniBond Premier Division clash
with North Ferriby United at the Millennium Worldwide Stadium, South Elmsall, on
Good Friday, 14th April, likely to have a significant bearing on the
destination of the Premier Division title the Blues have teamed up with
Yorkshire Sport & Social Development to provide a series of pre-match
entertainment to appeal to all the family. The entertainment gets under way at 12.15pm and features
the likes of human table football, sumo wrestling, bucking bronco, surf
simulator and much more. Also former Leeds United, Glasgow Rangers and Northern
Ireland international John McClelland will be in attendance and available for a
pre-match “kick about” and a chat. This is followed by the main event at 3.00pm as current
UniBond Premier Division leaders Frickley take on second placed North Ferriby
with only goal difference currently separating the two sides at the top of the
table. Frickley have already beaten Ferriby 2-1 away in an exciting game and
this return match promises to be every bit as exciting with both teams
free-scoring throughout the season. 8th March On Friday 24th March the Millennium Worldwide Stadium will host a trio of football matches featuring local teams to raise funds for the Thomas Hough Appeal, which has been established to help seven year old Thomas who is suffering from a serious illness. Thomas' team, South Elmsall United U9's will get the matches under way at 5pm with a game against South Kirkby Juniors. This is followed at 6pm by an Under 14s game between South Kirkby Knights and South Elmsall United whilst the final game between an Allstar XI and Minsthorpe Hotel Over-35s will kick off at 7.15pm Admission to the matches is free but supporters are encouraged to participate in the various fundraising raffles, etc that will be taking place during the evening. 2nd March In this World Cup year UniBond Premier Division title
challengers Frickley Athletic have already caught the World Cup ‘bug’ with
the launch of their “World Cup Fever Draw” which will give the lucky winner
a piece of English football history. The prize on offer is a fully framed signed Geoff Hurst
replica England shirt from the 1966 World Cup Final against West Germany which also
includes the official matchday programme and ticket from the Final along with a
photo of Geoff Hurst scoring the fourth goal in the Final. Tickets cost £2 each, or 3 for £5, and the draw will be made on Saturday 29th April immediately following Frickley’s final UniBond Premier Division game of the season against Burscough at the Millennium Worldwide Stadium. Don’t miss out on your chance to own this valuable and highly sought-after piece of World Cup memorabilia. Tickets are available to purchase at all Frickley’s remaining home matches, from the club’s stall on South Elmsall market on Tuesday mornings, from Allstar Sportswear in South Elmsall and via e-mail. Contact Paul Graves or Steve Pennock for more details 27th February Gary Marrow has today signed Lee Stratford as cover for the left back position with Nicky Heinemann due to start a 3-match suspension on Saturday and Ritchie Butler not yet fit enough to return. 19th February Many thanks to everyone who donated towards the bucket collection at yesterday's game. This raised £109 which will be put towards the construction of the new path to the exit behind the Snack Bar. It is intended to run a bucket collection for all remaining home games to raise extra funds towards both this cost and repairing the terracing in the centre of the pit-tip side of the ground. 16th February Following Wakefield-Emley submitting 7-days notice of approach for Phil Lindley eleven days ago Lindley (left) has decided to leave Frickley and rejoin the Belle Vue Stadium based club. 14th February Manager Gary Marrow and Club Captain Steve Kennedy were presented with the UniBond Premier Division Club of the Month for January prior to the Chairman's Cup Quarter Final against Chorley on Friday. The photograph below shows Derek Nicholls of Henkel on the left and UniBond League secretary Phil Bradley on the right making the presentation.
Photo (c) GNM Imaging 14th February The outstanding away game at Burscough has been arranged for Tuesday 4th April, k.o. 7.45pm. See Fixtures 12th February The Blues have been drawn at home to Blyth Spartans in the Semi Final of the UniBond League Chairman's Cup with the game due to take place on Saturday 11th March with extra time and penalties, if required. The other semi final sees Woodley Sports host Ossett Town. 9th February Gary Marrow has secured the signature of striker/winger Sean Gummer from Belper Town. 24 year-old Gummer started his career at Derby County before joining Belper. He has since played for Eastwood Town and Burton Albion but returned to Belper afterwards. Gummer is cup-tied for tomorrow night's game so his registration is due to be completed next week. 1st February Frickley Athletic are pleased to announce that central defender Matt Daly is set to reject a move to UniBond Premier Division rivals Ossett Town, who have submitted a 7-day notice of approach for Daly’s signature. Blues’ Manager Gary Marrow is delighted that 29-year-old Daly has pledged his immediate future to helping the Blues challenge for the UniBond Premier Division title and possible promotion to Nationwide Conference North rather than accepting a move to Ossett Town who are currently fighting a battle against relegation to the UniBond First Division. 1st February Frickley Athletic have won the UniBond League "Club of the Month " award for January after boasting a 100% win record in the four League matches and one cup match played during the month. The award is due to be presented prior to the Chairman's Cup Quarter Final against Chorley. Congratulations to all involved. 31st January Due to the Sheffield Senior Cup tie taking place on Tuesday 7th March the home game against Ashton United has been moved to Tuesday 28th February, k.o. 7.45pm. See Fixtures 30th January The Blues' Chairman's Cup Quarter Final tie against Chorley has been brought forward from Saturday 11th February to Friday 10th February, kick off 7.45pm. Also, the Sheffield Senior Cup Quarter Final against Stocksbridge PS has been arranged for Tuesday 7th March, k.o. 7.45pm. Both games are to be played to a finish on the night. 26th January Calum Selby has been released from the Club and is due to join fellow UniBond Premier Division side Gateshead. 23rd January The Club's end of season Sportsman's Dinner takes place on Friday 12th May 2006 at the Rogerthorpe Manor Hotel with guest speaker JEFF WINTER (former Premiership referee) and comedian Jimmy Bright. Tickets are priced at £31.95 and includes a 4-course meal. Contact Paul Graves on 07710 501000 for further details. 21st January The Club are holding a Fans Forum in the GB Approvals Clubhouse at the ground on Tuesday 7th February, starting at approximately 7.30pm. All fans are invited to attend. Ritchie Butler returned to training on Thursday evening as he started functional rehabilitation. If Butler continues to improve at this rate then physio Mick Gilbert is confident that he could be back to full fitness sooner rather than later. 15th January The draw for the Millennium Worldwide Holiday Giveaway was made in the GB Approvals Clubhouse after the game yesterday. The winner is V. GILMORE of Minsthorpe Community College who wins a week's holiday in Spain. 12th January 2006 TIME FOR LOCAL BUSINESS TO
BACK FRICKLEY The time is now right for local business people to involve themselves in the running of Frickley Athletic Football Club, according to current club Chairman Mr Peter Bywater. Mr Bywater took the helm of the South Elmsall based outfit some three and a half years ago, filling the gap created by the departure of the previous administration. His tenure has seen much needed stability come to the club. The aim for Frickley now is to move forward, consolidating their current league status and in time move upwards to the next step of the Football Pyramid. To achieve this goal on the pitch, off the pitch backing is needed both in terms of financial assistance and business acumen. As was reported at the recent Annual General Meeting, Frickley Athletic is soon to undergo a change of status, and is striving to become a “Company Limited by Guarantee”, this situation provides an ideal opportunity for the current Committee to expand and develop the club as a whole. It is felt that new outside involvement is essential to take Frickley Athletic a step closer to Football League status. “For the past three seasons we have struggled at the wrong end of the league, but a combination of a prudent financial approach by our current hardworking committee, and the appointment of an experienced management team, coupled with the prospect of impending area redevelopment, lead me to believe that the time is most definitely right for a giant step forward” quotes Mr Bywater. Frickley Athletic are now half way through the 2005 – 2006 Season, and at the time of writing Frickley find them selves in a playoff position in the Unibond Premier League, therefore giving them selves a very real opportunity to gain promotion, into Conference North, two steps below the Football League. Attendances are currently 30% up on last season and our current management team have shown what can be done with limited resources. Both on the field and off the field personnel are keen to progress the club and are looking externally for assistance to realise this achievable ambition. Should anyone feel they can provide this required assistance, please contact Peter Bywater on 01977 648365. 12th January Gary Marrow has this evening signed 22 year old left sided player Chris Adam from Ilkeston Town. Adam was a junior at Sheffield United before being released and has spent the last couple of seasons with Ilkeston. 10th January The Blues have been drawn at home to UniBond First Division side Chorley in the Quarter Finals of the Chairman's Cup. The tie will take place on Saturday 11th February, k.o. 3pm. The other ties are Bamber Bridge v Ossett Town, Blyth Spartans v Ossett Albion and Woodley Sports v Bishop Auckland. 6th January Lee Morris (left) has decided to leave the Club and has signed for Conference North side Hucknall Town. 30th December Midfielder Neil Ashley has re-joined the Blues after leaving towards the end of last season in order to go traveling the world. Ashley goes straight into the squad for Monday's difficult trip to Farsley Celtic. However, central defender Dean Foley has been released in order to sign for UniBond First Division club Goole AFC and Ashley Scothern has been released to join Premier Division rivals Ossett Town.. 19th December Frickley Athletic can confirm that an application has been submitted to the Football Association for promotion to Step 2 (Conference North) should Frickley Athletic finish the season in a qualifying position. However, it is appreciated that if we are successful then we are likely to have to undertake a significant amount of ground improvements before April 2007. The club is, however, expecting to know well before then what ground improvements are likely to be incorporated in the large scale redevelopment of the former colliery site which may well impact substantially on some of the improvements that we are required to make. Ackworth Juniors wish to place on record their thanks to everyone who contributed to the half time bucket collection at Saturday's game against Ossett Town and to Frickley Athletic for their support with the collection. In total £97.00 was raised for Ackworth Juniors which will be spent on new balls and training equipment. 15th December The Blues have been drawn away at Rossendale United in the 1st Round of the UniBond League Chairman's Cup. The game is scheduled for Saturday 7th January 2006. Also, the UniBond League have rearranged the outstanding home games against Guiseley and Matlock Town with Guiseley visiting the Millennium Worldwide stadium on Tuesday 28th February whilst Matlock visit on Saturday 1st April. 14th December Gary Marrow has bolstered his squad by signing central defender James Stansfield. 27 year old Stansfield began his career at Huddersfield Town before moving on to Halifax Town where he made 30 Football League appearances. He has since played for Ossett Town, Bradford Park Avenue and Guiseley. However, defender Craig Robinson has been released and has joined Gateshead. The away UniBond League game at Lincoln United has been brought forward from Saturday 8th April 2006 to Friday 7th April 2006, k.o. 7.45pm. 7th December Another former Blues' player has returned to the club with striker Lee Morris re-joining Frickley from Worksop Town, initially on a temporary basis. Morris left the Blues at the end of the 2003/04 season to join Harrogate Town for a four-figure fee but he joined Droylsden last summer before moving on to Worksop Town in September of this year. 6th December Gary Marrow has today re-signed striker Richard Tracey from Bradford Park Avenue, a move which didn't work out well for Tracey as he picked up a couple of knocks which resulted in him not featuring very often in Avenue's side. 21st November
Frickley Athletic have once again
teamed up with major sponsors Millennium Worldwide to offer football fans the
chance of winning a superb weeks holiday to the Costa Blanca Spain, including
accommodation, return airfare and transport.
Following the success of last years
competition, where Mr Peter Thompson from South Elmsall won the prize, overseas
property experts Millennium Worldwide are pleased to extend their sponsorship
of Frickley by offering the superb prize for the competition once more.
5 lucky chances can be purchased for a
£1 and the winner will be announced at the AFC Telford United match at
the Millennium Worldwide Stadium on Saturday January 14th. Already the limited
amount of tickets are selling fast with over 200 sold in the first week.
Tickets are on sale at all Frickley
Athletic games and from any Club official.
You have got to be in it to win it!
17th November The draw for the Quarter Finals of the Sheffield & Hallamshire Senior Cup has been made on BBC Radio Sheffield this evening with the Blues being drawn at home to Stocksbridge PS. Other ties are Wakefield-Emley v Sth Kirkby Coll, AFC Barnsley v Sheffield FC and Hallam v Parkgate. Ties are due to be played before 11th March 2006. 29th October
22nd October The Blues are likely to have a new face in the side this afternoon following the signing this morning of left full-back Nick Heinemann from Bradford Park Avenue. Heinemann has recently been playing in the NCEL with Liversedge after having a disagreement with Avenue boss Gary Brook. In return, the Blues' reserve goalkeeper Mark Wilkinson has been released to join Bradford due to their current injury crisis. The Blues also have injury problems with doubts over Martyn Woolford and Matt Daly for this afternoon's game against Marine. 10th October Frickley Athletic have great pleasure in announcing a sponsorship deal with public service union, UNISON, who will become known as the club’s Corporate Partner for at least until the end of the current campaign. The deal also sees UNISON enjoy Full Matchday Sponsorship of the local ‘derby’ games against Ossett Town (17th December) and Wakefield-Emley (26th December) as well as substantially increasing their advertising hoarding presence at the Millennium Worldwide Stadium. UNISON is currently Britain’s largest trade union with over 1.3 million members of which around 10,000 are in the Wakefield district alone. The union are keen sponsors of several other clubs in the area, including Featherstone Rugby League Club and Wakefield-Emley FC and Branch Secretary Linda Bratley and Sports Secretary Charlie Robinson were keen to sponsor Frickley Athletic who they see as the hub of the SESKU (South Elmsall, South Kirkby and Upton) area. Both Linda and Charlie expect that the sponsorship will benefit both parties as they are hopeful that they will be able to increase attendances at Frickley’s home matches through their membership and also bring UNISON to the attention of Frickley’s supporters at branch level. Frickley’s Commercial Manager, Tom Grindel enthused, “This sponsorship is a great boost for the club as well as being a progressive form of advertising for UNISON who have become Frickley’s Corporate Partners until the end of this season. The deal should benefit both organisations and it is hoped this will continue for a while to come.”
Frickley Treasurer Andrew Steel and UNISON Branch Secretary Linda Bratley sign the sponsorship agreement. 28th September Frickley Athletic and Lincoln United have agreed to re-arrange last night's abandoned game for Friday 7th October, kick off 7.45pm and the UniBond League have agreed to this request. This is to avoid a clash with the England v Austria game which kicks off at 4pm on Saturday 8th October. Those supporters who retained their admission ticket from last night will be entitled to free entry to this game. See Fixtures 26th September Gary Marrow has added to his squad by signing striker Rob Pell from Ossett Town. Twenty-six year old Pell started his career at Rotherham United before moving on to Doncaster Rovers where he made six first team appearances, scoring once. He has since had spells at Northwich Victoria, Southport, Droylsden, Harrogate Town, Worksop Town and Wakefield-Emley as well as a short spell in Finland. Pell goes into the squad for tomorrow night's home game against Lincoln United. 2nd September Manager Gary Marrow has agreed to let Richard Tracey leave the club and he is due to sign for Bradford Park Avenue in time to play in their game tomorrow. Although enjoying his time at Frickley, Tracey is eager for regular first team football, which he hasn't had recently at the Millennium Worldwide Stadium. 1st September Gary Marrow last night added to his squad by signing two of the Blues' Under 19s side on UniBond League forms. The two are striker Mark Crossfield and attacking midfielder Scott Turner.
7th August
Steve Robinson has now committed himself to the Blues for the forthcoming season after signing on Saturday to all but complete Gary Marrow's initial squad for the new campaign. 5th August Gary Marrow has secured the signing of combative defender/midfielder Richie Butler who has left Alfreton Town. Twenty-seven year old Butler has previously played under Marrow at Belper Town and has also had spells at Glapwell, Eastwood Town, King's Lynn and Derby County, where he started his career.
Also put ting pen to paper are twenty-three year old defender Craig Robinson
from Stocksbridge Park Steels and nineteen year old winger Ryan
Golden from Halifax Town, whilst three more of last season's squad, Matt.
Daly, Phil Lindley and Ashley Scothern, have all signed on for another season.
4th August In order to avoid a clash with the Wales v England World Cup Qualifying game on Saturday 3rd September, it has been agreed with Ashton United that the game be brought forward to Friday 2nd September, k.o. at 7.45pm. 1st August Gary Marrow has captured the signature of promising youngster Martyn Woolford who joins the Blues' from Glasshoughton Welfare, despite a number of other clubs being in the hunt for him. Woolford is a lively attacking winger who has impressed during pre-season friendly games. Marrow is also close to signing combative defender/midfielder Ritchie Butler who has been released by Alfreton Town. Butler trained with the Blues last week and is expected to play against Arnold Town tomorrow night. 28th July This coming Saturday sees a hastily arranged friendly match between Yorkshire TV and Tyne Tees TV at the Millennium Worldwide Stadium, kick off at 1pm. Admission is free and the bar will be open. 25th July Over the last week most of Gary Marrow's squad have pu | ||||||||||||||||||||||||