a catch up with Chris Slater
A familiar face at our football club who has had a remarkable journey in the sport. Chris made a name for himself as a key member of the First team.
After being released by Wolverhampton Wanderers at the age of 20, Chris had trials with Tranmere Rovers and was also being looked at by Blackpool and Crewe Alexandra. He was signed by Lee Sinnott's Port Vale, along with Chasetown teammate Kyle Perry, in January 2008. Chris turned professional at Vale Park, spending eleven months in the English Football League. In 2009, Chris returned to Chasetown.
Little did he know that this move would kickstart a series of unforgettable experiences. He played a pivotal role in Chasetown's history, playing a vital role in their promotion in 2010 and went on to break the club's all-time appearance record.
Chris also had successful spells with Walsall Wood, contributing to their title win in 2017-18. In the 2020-21 season, he returned to Chasetown as a player-coach.
In this interview, we delve into Chris Slater's incredible journey, his thoughts on Chasetown's development, and his advice for aspiring young footballers.
Can you tell us about your journey in football, from your time with Wolves FC to your current role at Chasetown FC and managing the U15s Youth Development Programme?
I began my journey in football with Wolves at the age of 12, and it continued until I was around 20. At 16, I signed on for a two-year stint with a youth team, followed by a one-year stint as a pro. During that time, I played numerous reserve games, although I regretfully never managed to break into the first team. My journey then took me to non-league football, where I initially intended to stay for just a short while, but I ended up staying longer, playing many games. Additionally, I ventured into coaching, starting with an under-nines team, which coincidentally included my son. I've carried on coaching all the way up to the under-15s.
As someone deeply rooted in the community, how do you believe Chasetown FC can further strengthen its ties with the local community?
Given the developments happening at Chasetown Football Club, it's poised to become a central hub in the community, drawing people in to watch games and participate in various activities.
Chasetown FC is undergoing significant changes in terms of infrastructure and investment. Can you share your thoughts on how these changes will benefit not only the club but also the local community?
The forthcoming changes to the football club are nothing short of monumental. These changes will provide us with a robust platform to attract both players and supporters, ultimately benefiting the local community in the long run. I wholeheartedly believe that Chasetown Football Club will be a source of immense pride for the community.
What are the key goals and objectives of the U15s team within the Youth Development Programme, and how does it fit into the overall development strategy at Chasetown FC?
Our primary goals for the under-15s team revolve around nurturing their growth as players and setting them on a path towards successful football careers, regardless of the level they aspire to. To achieve this, we focus on developing their comfort with the ball, instilling a strong work ethic in regaining possession when the opponent has the ball, and teaching them resilience in the face of adversity.
What role do mentorship and guidance from senior players and coaches play in the development of young talents at Chasetown FC?
As a coach and a player for Chasetown's first team, it's of paramount importance to exemplify the right attitude and unwavering dedication to our youth development program. I actively encourage our players to attend first-team matches, where they can learn and draw inspiration from our senior players. I hope to be a driving force in inspiring the next generation of youth team players to make their mark.
Chasetown FC has seen various managers, players, and staff over the years. Are there any individuals or moments that have had a significant impact on your journey with the club?
I've been fortunate to play under the guidance of some exceptional managers during my time at Chasetown Football Club. However, one manager who stands out prominently for me is Charlie Blakemore. His ability to extract the best from me and instil a sense of invincibility in every player was truly remarkable. Mick Joiner also played a significant role in my journey at Chasetown, always pushing me to exceed my limits and better myself.
What advice would you give to young aspiring footballers in the local community who hope to follow a similar path to yours in the world of football?
For any aspiring local young footballer, my main piece of advice would be to prioritise hard work and, equally important, listen attentively to the coaching staff and mentors who guide your development. These two factors can be instrumental in shaping a successful football career.