No surprise there really although we will be joined by Amesbury Town, Petersfield Town and Andover Town who finished second in the Wessex Premier last season. The North Hants club having been promoted to the Southern League then had to withdraw due to a significant loss of staff and sponsorship and have been placed at level 6.
We also renew acquaintances with former Premier clubs, Alton Town, Downton, Fawley, Follands, Laverstock and Ford, New Milton Town, Romsey Town, Totton and Eling, Verwood Town and Whitchurch United. Not forgetting of course we will once again have a local derby but this time around it is with East Cowes Vics.
Our reserves will play in IOW Division 1 which is an excellent result as they will not be affected by players playing in the FA Cup or Vase which would bar them from playing in Division 2. We will have an A team in IOW Combination 2 which will be our starting point for Youth players progressing to Adult football.
Andy Sampson has already started work on building his squad for next season, one newcomer so far, Craig Castle who was at the Bournemouth Academy and went on to play for Aldershot Reserves as a teenager. Craig has been out of the game for a while but still only 26 and having moved to the Island, he is keen to get back playing. A pacy winger / striker he is looking forward to playing on the spacious St. George’s pitch.
The club presentation night is next Saturday 2nd June 2018 at St. George’s Park, we shall be kicking off at 7.30pm (Bar open from 7pm). All supporters are welcome, there will be hot food (a choice between curry or chilli) and supporters wanting food will need to advise ahead of the event. Please email info@niowfc.com with your details if you will be wanting food on the night. There is a nominal charge of £5 for food but those who just want to attend and have a drink are welcome.
