Ever since a disappointing 2019/20 season was brought to a close prematurely Chipping Manager Andy Barr has had his sights set on pre-season and preparation for 20/21. With that now complete he reflects on those games and looks forward to the start of the new season this weekend.

“During lockdown all the lads had been clocking miles on the activity tracking app Strava, with the aim of collectively equalling the return rips of all our away games. This feat was achieved in the allotted time and a number of big runs were recorded. This kept the cardio levels up and stood us in good stead ahead of pre-season.
Despite not knowing when the new campaign would begin everyone was desperate to get back playing again. We made the decision to get the lads back in for a couple of sessions a week once deemed safe by the FA, taking as many precautions as we possibly could.

Gaz Thomas of Scholars therapies had been working individually last season with a couple of our players recovering from long term injuries. He came highly recommended as a strength and conditioning coach and we made the decision to draw on his expertise for a session a week to put the lads through their paces.

New additions came in the form of new and returning players from neighbouring teams. It was great to welcome Jake Unsworth back into the fold, however, a disappointing injury on his return was a real blow after only having the green jersey on again for 5 minutes. Hopefully we’ll see him return later in the season to showcase his talent, having looked very sharp in training prior to this. Jack Hamilton, a former Chipping U18s player, and Harris Bailey have also signed for the 20/21 campaign. Another is Chris Cookson who bring bags of experience having played in the in the West lancs premier division for a number of years.

Our pre-season fixtures were organised in no time with other teams being very responsive. Although results didn’t matter to us, it was nice to be undefeated throughout which has given the lads a real belief. Drawing the first two and then winning the next two fixtures shows how we’re building on a philosophy and style of play which should be good to watch for both myself and any spectators.

Strength in depth is at an all-time high for our small village team and I’m very hopeful of our prospects ahead of the new campaign. Our season opener is away to Galgate at the weekend and I hope that our fans can make it there for the spectacle.

A huge thanks as always to all our sponsors especially our primary sponsor FDC.

Andy