As we approach our last game of the year at home, I would like to take this opportunity to welcome you all to The Belmont Stadium as we close the 2023 home campaign.

It has been an absolute honour to prepare the First team for these last 12 months.

If we all take a moment and reflect on the year behind us, collectively, we have every reason to be proud of ourselves.

Football at Whitstable Town FC is experiencing rapid growth, from our youth teams all the way up to the First team. Thanks to the strong interaction between the 18s/23s and Academy, seven players have graduated to the First team this year, and we have dozens more regularly training.

Our fan base is exceptional, consistently ranking in the top five for attendance in Kent, top two in the League attendances, and often in the top 10 across all 16 Step 5 Leagues in the country.

Thanks to the wise investment of our board in our infrastructure, and the hard work of our club staff and volunteers, we have united the club and strengthened our bond with the community. This was especially evident in the recent tragic event of losing our dear friend Matt, who was the heartbeat of our cohesiveness. The community that came together showed the core values that we preach at our club.

Lastly, we are proud to say that the results at the Belmont have significantly improved compared to the previous year. Here are some statistics to celebrate the year we have left behind.

Collectively, we have gone on a progressive journey and these are some outstanding achievements which speak volumes.

Moving into the game on Saturday, what a fantastic fixture to celebrate the end of the year.

Our visitors come into this game on a progressive journey of their own, in comparison to their previous years. Like us, they have invested in club infrastructure and First team personnel. They have an exciting team on the pitch and a very experienced management team, with some being good friends of mine in the likes of Tim Dixon and Darren Beale.

The last time we met, I felt both teams put on a great show for the supporters. A game with three long distance goals, missed chances, counter attacks, drama and plenty of skill based entertainment throughout and all played in great competitive spirit with no animosity. I am confident part 2, this Saturday, will be the same and may the best team take the glory and the bragging rights of this wonderful derby.

I would like to conclude by wishing you all a Happy New Year filled with joy, prosperity and success and I hope to see you all this Saturday where your support will matter.

Up The Oysters
Marcel Nimani