Reflecting on Progress and Building for the Future

Reflecting on Progress and Building for the Future

The Boro’ at a crossroads

Stafford Rangers Football Club stands at an important crossroads as preparations are moving fast for the upcoming season.

With key appointments confirmed and structural changes underway, the club is entering a new era—one that both honours recent contributions and looks ahead with ambition and determination.

Stability on the Pitch

As part of the club’s commitment to stability and progress, the management team remains firmly in place and we will be investing in new analytical tools and scouting processes to support them.

Manager Graham Deakin will continue to proudly lead the squad, supported by Alfie Marsden, Alex Meechan, Scott Cooksey and George Stephens.

Detailed plans from the current management team on how they see the footballing model of the club align well with the vision to build to step three and beyond.

Their retention reflects confidence in the current footballing direction and provides a stable platform to build upon for the coming campaign.

A detailed and cohesive plan was put to the board by Graham in support of his application.

We believe he has the making of a fantastic manager and more importantly has the DNA which reflects the values, passion and vision of our club.

Graham Deakin
Graham Deakin
Alfie Marsden
Deakz States

‘’I am excited and privileged to be given the opportunity to manage this fantastic football club on a permanent basis. I’m humbled to be chosen to be the man to lead this club into a new and exciting era.

I have learned a great deal over the past season and with that knowledge and the energy and support network now in place at the club above me and within my management team firmly believe that we can and will deliver the success that this football club deserves.

I’d like to thank Nathan and the board for their backing and the continued support shown towards me.’’

Andy Fearn: Eight Years of Dedication

After eight years of loyal service, Director of Football Andy Fearn has announced he will be stepping back from his role at the Stan Robinson Stadium.

Andy has been instrumental across multiple areas of the club. His influence has been both wide-ranging and much of his hard work was unseen by many. His steady guidance has helped shape a culture of professionalism and unity behind the scenes.

Andy Fearn

Andy’s contribution extended into the broader fabric of the club—supporting long-term planning, nurturing relationships, and helping to stabilise operations during challenging periods. His legacy is one of commitment, consistency, and genuine passion for the club.

As he steps away, there is a shared desire across the club to mark his contribution in the most fitting way possible: by securing silverware in the upcoming cup final. Such an achievement would stand as a testament to his years of dedication and leadership.

Andy Reflects

‘’It has been an honour and a privilege to represent Stafford Rangers FC over the last eight years. Through difficult times both on and off the pitch I believe I have carried out all duties in a professional manner with total integrity.

As football fans we can agree and disagree from time to time but I have always worked for the benefit of the club.

Having secured the Club’s status at Step 4 and as the club is about to embark on a new trajectory with substantial financial backing, I have taken the difficult decision to retire and finally devote time to my family and grandchildren.’’

A New Chapter Begins

Stafford Rangers now turn their attention to the future. The club is actively evolving its structure, with plans to appoint a Technical Director who will work closely with the existing management team.

This new role signals a forward-thinking approach—aimed at enhancing recruitment strategies, player development pathways, and long-term football planning.

By modernising the club’s structure, Stafford Rangers are positioning themselves to compete more effectively and sustainably in the seasons ahead.

Such a plan is crucial to lead the club towards success with far greater focus on technology, analysis and scouting programme to build a team that matches the vision of both investors and the board.

Building for Long-Term Success

The transition represents more than just a change in personnel; it is a strategic shift towards a more integrated and progressive football model. Retaining key staff while introducing new expertise ensures continuity is balanced with innovation.

The foundations laid over the past several years provide a base from which to grow.

With a clear vision, committed leadership, and a renewed structure, Stafford Rangers are well-placed to pursue both immediate success and long-term development.

Conclusion

As Stafford Rangers move forward, the club does so with gratitude for the past and optimism for the future.

The contributions of Andy Fearn will always be welcomed and not be forgotten at Stafford Rangers.

The next chapter promises fresh energy, new ideas, and a continued commitment to success and improvement both on and off the pitch.

Reflecting on Progress and Building for the Future

Exciting Developments at Stan Robinson Stadium

Cantilever Roof Project Moves Forward

Stan Robinson Stadium is buzzing with activity as preparations for the highly anticipated Cantilever Roof at the Social Club End take another significant step forward.

Ballard Engineering assessing the existing structure

Our appointed contractors, Ballard Engineering, have recently been on site conducting exploratory investigations to assess the condition and capacity of the existing steel supports.

Positive Findings from Exploratory Investigations

We are delighted to report some fantastic news from these investigations:

Structural Integrity Confirmed: The existing steel supports are strong enough to hold the new Cantilever Roof. While this was anticipated, confirming it through thorough checks gives us complete confidence to move ahead.

Structural integrity checks passed!

The Cantilever Roof: A Landmark Addition

The new Cantilever Roof will extend across the full length of the Social Club, providing improved shelter and comfort for fans.

This upgrade reflects our commitment to enhancing the matchday experience and investing in the long-term future of the club.

Project Timeline

If all goes according to plan, construction of the Cantilever Roof is scheduled to begin in approximately five weeks. The project is expected to take just two weeks to complete, ensuring everything is ready for the start of the new season.

A Summer of Transformation

This is just one of several projects planned for the close season.

We are committed to documenting the progress of the Cantilever Roof build, along with other exciting developments that will be taking place. It promises to be a very busy summer—quite possibly the busiest in the club’s history!

Stay Connected

Stay tuned for regular updates and exclusive behind-the-scenes content as we bring these ambitious plans to life. Your support means everything to us as we continue to invest in the future of Stan Robinson Stadium.

Reflecting on Progress and Building for the Future

Stafford Rangers End of Season Awards

Congratulations to Our Winners

The Stafford Rangers End of Season Awards were held on Saturday 18th April, following our final home game of the season against Clitheroe.

A packed club at the award night

The evening provided a chance to recognise the dedication of our players and volunteers after a challenging campaign.

Recognising Contribution and Commitment

It was an enjoyable evening spent celebrating the hard work and commitment shown throughout the season.

Awards were presented in appreciation of the efforts made both on and off the pitch.

Congratulations to all our award winners!

Players’ Awards

Supporters’ Player of the Season: Jack Birch

Jack Birch with Alex Wickett

Manager’s Player of the Season: Jack Birch

Jack Birch with Manager Graham Deakin

Players’ Player of the Season: Andy Burns, Ben O’Hanlon & Ash Fallon

Andy Burns, Ben O’Hanlon and Ash Fallon

Directors’ Player of the Season: Andy Burns

Andy Burns with David Smith

Top Goal Scorer: Jack Birch (17 goals)

Top Scorer Jack Birch

Goal of the Season: Jack Birch vs Wolverhampton Casuals

Jack Birch with Andy Fearn

Thank You

Thank you to everyone who attended the awards evening, and to all players, volunteers, and supporters for their ongoing support.

The club appreciates all the effort shown this season and looks ahead to preparing for a better season next year.

Reflecting on Progress and Building for the Future

Autism Awareness Month

Autism Awareness at Stafford Rangers

As part of Autism Awareness Month, Stafford Rangers is proud to support an inclusive matchday experience for all supporters.

What is Autism?

Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) is a lifelong neuro-developmental condition that affects how people experience and interact with the world. It can influence communication, social interaction, and how someone responds to sensory input such as noise, light, and crowds.

Autism is a spectrum, meaning it affects individuals in different ways — some people may need more support, while others live quite independently. It can also appear different in men than it does in women.

What is important to remember is that every autistic person is different.

The Matchday Experience

Football grounds can be exciting, but also challenging environments. For some supporters, matchdays may involve:

  • Loud noise levels (crowds, whistles, music)
  • Busy or crowded spaces
  • Unpredictable moments during the game
  • Changes in routine or unfamiliar surroundings

These factors can sometimes feel overwhelming, particularly for those attending for the first time.

How Can We Be Supportive?

Creating an inclusive environment doesn’t require big changes — small actions make a big difference:

  • Be patient and understanding — not all disabilities are visible, so you might not know
  • Respect personal space where possible
  • Provide guidance where you can, so they can prepare in advance
  • Avoid judgment — everyone experiences the game differently
  • Be part of the friendly and welcoming atmosphere to all supporters

We also offer a quiet space in The Fans Bar, where supporters can pick up fidgets or a soft toy, and even take a break from the noise and the crowds to sit and follow the game with commentary from SRFC Radio.

Our Experiences

Megan Ratcliffe (EDI Officer):

Quite often, I can get overwhelmed in crowds and noisy spaces so you might think a football game is not for me – but I love football. When the Boro faithful welcome me into the Shed End with my noise-cancelling headphones in and a fidget in my pocket, a subtle hand signal to confirm I am OK and I am made to feel like part of them. That recognition is so important.

Sam (on behalf of his daughter Izzy):

Having a community club like ours where everyone is welcome is something, as a fan, I am immensely proud of. Being a father to a little girl who is non-verbal and on the ASD spectrum, seeing everyone say hello to her at every home game when they see her, really makes her included.

Evie Dixey’s family:

Evie says Stafford Rangers is her happy place. Here, she feels part of the team, or in her words “with the lads”. To be able to sponsor games and see her name against the players, are Evie’s favorite presents to get for her birthday and Christmas – its the only thing she asks for. Every player, fan, management staff that gives up their time to speak to Evie, makes her feel truly welcome – and all of us too – there is nowhere she feels more settled and herself.

A Club for Everyone

We are committed to making Stafford Rangers a welcoming place for all supporters and will continue to improve our accessibility wherever possible. 

If you have any questions or would like to discuss your needs ahead of a visit, please contact: edi@staffordrangersfc.co.uk

Reflecting on Progress and Building for the Future

Stafford Rangers FC — Community Support

Thank You to Local Businesses

We’d like to extend our sincere thanks to several local businesses whose generosity and support have made a real difference to the club.

Altecnic

A long‑term supporter of Stafford Rangers, Altecnic have recently increased their support through sponsorship and by donating free sanitary ware to help improve the ground’s toilet facilities.

We are extremely grateful to everyone at Altecnic for their continued commitment and look forward to working with you in the future.

Dyno‑Rod

Dyno‑Rod have carried out free repairs to the toilets in our Social Club.

A huge thank you to their team for helping us keep our facilities in good order.

Cuttlestones Auctioneers (Ben Gamble & David Eglington)

A big thank you to Ben and David of Cuttlestones in Penkridge for selling surplus club items on our behalf with zero commission.

All proceeds have been donated to the Club’s ground development fund and will directly benefit our community.

It all helps

Thank you to these businesses and everyone who supports Stafford Rangers FC.

Your generosity helps improve our club for players, supporters and visitors alike.

If you are a local business and can help Stafford Rangers, please get in touch