Chairman’s End of Season Message – 2024/25
As the final game of the Vanarama National League is played for the 2024/25 season, I want to take a moment to reflect on what’s been one of the most progressive and successful years in the modern history of Chorley FC – both on and off the pitch.
First Team Performance:
Led by Andy Preece and Chris Anderson, our first team once again delivered an incredible campaign, finishing in the play-off positions and pushing hard for promotion. While ultimately falling short against eventual winners Scunthorpe, the consistency, performances ans achievements of our first team squad again, can’t be overstated. To be competing year after year in and around the top, against full-time outfits and clubs with significant resources is something we are proud of and is something every supporter should be proud of.
Our home form was particularly outstanding, helping us reach an average attendance of almost 1,400 – a figure that continues to rise steadily over recent years. Importantly, we’re also seeing a shift in the demographic of our supporters, with more young people and more female fans attending our games. The renewed energy and focus on diversity and community is the the future of our club.
Preecy is already hard at work shaping next season’s squad. Talks with current players have gone well, with the vast majority committing to another season and we’re optimistic that we will be able to strengthen is some key areas. We will keep supporters up to date and start to announce updates in the coming days.
Pre-season fixtures are taking shape, included in conversations for games but yet to be confirmed are fixtures against Bradford City, Preston North End and Wigan Athletic. We’re also planning a short training camp in Alicante (18–21 July) – more information on that soon, including travel opportunities for supporters.
Youth Development:
- Our youth setup, under the brilliant leadership of Gary Donoghue and a committed team of coaches (and brilliant parents!) continues to grow and evolve. Every team from U12s to U18s has achieved notable relative success this year:
- U12s: Top-half finishes in both Saturday (JPL) and Sunday (East Lancs) leagues. Quarter-finalists in the LFA Cup – an excellent first full season.
- U13s: A very tough year with results, but their spirit, hard work and resilience never faltered giving them a platform to build from.
- U14s: Champions of the NW top division (again), National Knockout Cup winners, and finalists in a major national tournament. Exceptional season!
- U15s: Much improved season, turning the tide and finishing in the top half of their division. Much progress made.
- U16s: Solid JPL campaign with a strong finish, and LFA Sunday Cup winners – a fantastic achievement.
- U18s: A superb campaign – finishing 5th in the NWYA League and League Cup winners (penalties vs Macclesfield).
- Chorley Women U18: an extraordinary season - A quadruple winning season! This weekend they won the Chairman’s Cup Final!
Trials for next season are already underway (U11–U18), and we’re excited to welcome new U11 and U17 teams into the fold. The Women’s team are progressing to open age and welcome new players. See our website and social media for further information.
Education & BTEC Programme:
Our partnership with the Steven Gerrard Academy continues to thrive. The U19 BTEC team, led by Andy Preece and Matty Swift, had a tremendous season – winning their league and finishing runners-up in the Champion’s Cup. Beyond football, the players’ academic and personal development has been just as impressive. Noel Brindle is a player who has made substantial progress from the BTEC group and will, without doubt be looking to edge closer to more first team appearances. We’re proud of every one of them.
Community Impact:
Our work in the community remains at the heart of everything we do. Under the leadership of Vinnie and Darren, our Community Foundation continues to break new ground – supporting mental health, veterans, children and those with disabilities. This year’s highlights include:
- Opening the ground on Christmas Day – an act that captured national attention.
- Winning Community Club of the Year (Moving Forward Sports / Non-League Paper).
- Running countless community events, school visits and awareness days.
Special mention goes to Chorley Away Days run by Stuart Taylor, whose creativity and relentless approach have helped create something truly unique at Chorley FC. Football fans far and wide have been able to take advantage of our brilliant facilities on their away day travels. We’ll continue to grow this fantastic initiative next season.
Off the Pitch Progress:
- Facilities: The pitch is being renovated again, with improved under-stand facilities and the opening of the new David Murgatroyd Community Corner.
- Hospitality & Events: Thanks to Sue Gautrey, our venue is now booked most nights of the year with many different opportunities including live bands, singers and other celebrations.
- Commercial Partners - we have grown our commercial relationships providing sustained support to the football club whilst creating further support and in many cases, new friends.
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Media & Comms: Pete Tscherewik has transformed our media output. Match day coverage, real-time updates, and improved fan engagement have been outstanding – both on X and through our expanding live commentary which has been welcomed by our loyal supporters.
Looking Ahead:
The close season is one of our busiest times – not a rest, but a reset. Kit launches, pre-season fixtures, ground improvements and player signings are all in progress. We’ll also be hosting a supporters’ event before the season starts to share more, take questions, and connect with you all directly.
I’ve been connected to Chorley FC since 2003 – first as a player, then in a range of roles and now as chairman. I’ve seen many chapters in this club’s journey, but I genuinely believe the current era is the strongest yet. Our foundations – thanks to our owners and our team of brilliant people, including amazing volunteers – are solid, the people of Chorley FC are exceptional and our club impact is growing all the time.
Thank you to everyone – staff, players, volunteers, sponsors, supporters – for being part of it. Season 2024-25 over. The journey continues.
Come on you Magpies.
