We start the first league game with an incredibly tough match away at Portishead this Saturday; the start of the season is getting earlier every year!

It was hugely disappointing to end up taking voluntary relegation at the end of last season after all the hard work which has gone in over the years, but for the club in the long run it will be the best decision.

Due to moving down a league and the less travel involved, we’ve managed to keep the majority of the squad together with only a few lads moving on. We’ve also managed to add some quality determined young players to our already young squad, who have fitted straight in. With all the experience he brings, having Joe Chandler back playing is going to be huge, not just for the young players around him but for the whole squad and the club. Dan Winstone has stepped up as captain and Ali Boyer as vice captain, two great lads who mean a lot to the club and everyone is delighted they’ve taken these roles on.

The management team is very similar to last season with Aaron Day as assistant manager, Matt Huxley as player/coach and Rich Thompson (the famous Cadbury Kitman) as kitman. Further to this, Grant Evans is joining the management team as first team coach and player whilst Ethan Spencer (currently doing his UEFA B licence) is taking on training sessions with his coaching knowledge.

Finally, on August 28th Bank Holiday Monday, there will be a memorial match for legendary former ‘El Presidente’ Terry Mitchell who sadly died last year. Ian Holloway is bringing an ex City and Rovers team to face a Cadbury Heath vets team. I’m sure it will be a special day and it will be great to see some old players and as many of you there as possible.

Onto Saturday and the season ahead!

UTH

Booner