The events of last season put things firmly into perspective for Bashley FC.
A serious road accident following a game at Tavistock AFC in February left Jordan Chiedozie with life-changing injuries as the club and football community rallied around to provide support, comfort and strength.
The events of that cold February evening have brought everyone at the Pitching In Southern League Division One South club even closer together.
Now as they look ahead to what 2025/26 holds in store, Dave Lewis, who did so much to support his players in the aftermath of the accident, has stepped up to the role of Director of Football, with highly-rated first-team coach, Jack Williamson, taking over as manager.
“I am beyond proud to have the privilege of managing the club,” Williamson told us. “It’s an honour that I don’t take lightly; we’ve prepared well and head to Falmouth Town on Saturday ready and raring to go.
“We couldn’t have had a tougher start, but we’ll go there on the back of what has been a positive pre-season overall.
“There has been a bit of change with a new coaching staff coming in to support myself and then identifying players who we feel will buy into our philosophy and approach.
“The main focus is ensuring that we’re all singing off the same hymn sheet and creating a positive environment.
“The events of last season were extremely tough for us to experience but it has brought us all closer together. The goose-bump moment was hosting a strong AFC Bournemouth team this summer in support of Jordan and having him walk out onto the pitch.
“It was just inspirational and I can’t stress enough the admiration and respect that we all have for Jordan. His resilience, determination and strength of character impacts us daily.”
So what are the expectations for the campaign ahead?
“It will be a tough campaign, that’s for sure,” Williamson responded. “Obviously you anticipate those who have come down from Step 3 to being very strong and pushing for it, but as we all know with this level, all it takes is a sudden change of management or ownership and a team can skyrocket up the table.
“So, unfortunately I’ll be quite boring and say how we will be approaching every game with the ‘Cup Final’ mentality and respect the qualities everyone possesses. We’d be stupid to prepare any other way.
“Going into the season everyone has the same target – promotion - and I’d be lying to say our aspirations as a club are any different.
“My philosophies and beliefs are quite simple as a coach. To earn the right to play by outworking your opponent. On and off the pitch we have to approach it with a high level of professionalism, but ultimately, my approach is a winning one.
“Having clear concepts of how we want to play, but being malleable in how that looks in order to achieve results.”
IMAGE: Steve Amey
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