The team’s existent came to a near perfect end when they defeated Sherwood Colliery in their final match to clinch the Notts Youth League Cup at Basford United last Saturday night. A team started by Matt Clowes at Under 8’s has progressed through every age group over the past decade and now graduates at the top of our junior section. Going through the seasons the team has won everything there is to win; Leagues, Cups and Tournaments all whilst maintaining their position at the top level of grassroots football.

Matt’s assistant Matthew Timson, has also played a big part in not only the team success story, but the clubs. Initially joining as a First Team player in 2014, before moving on to a player/manager role with the Reserves. Timmo then moved upstairs and took up the position of Club President whilst also still representing the club on the pitch as he turned out for the Veterans side finishing top goal scorer in 2015/16. Timmo then later took his son Frankie to Matt’s team where he assisted Matt for the final few years of the team’s journey.

Clowes who had a similar journey to Timmo starting out with the First Team in 2014 under the management of Paul MacFarlane before moving to the Reserves and finishing with the golden boot in the 2015/16 season netting 18 times, recording 10 assists. Soon becoming the poster boy for Eastwood CFC as Coronation Park began its development in to what you see today. Throughout his time, Matt has been on the board helping with issues on and off the pitch from Safeguarding to helping the development of teams and coaches. All this whilst he continued to progress and improve his team.

Matt’s passion and dedication to his team and the Football Club has been second to none and without a shadow of a doubt he will go down as a club legend.

Speaking to Matt Clowes he said “This season has seen our under 18’s Saturdays side compete once again at the highest level in a very competitive league, producing some excellent performances along the way only to be denied a top two finish due to an incomplete fixtures schedule. Therefore achieving our cup success made it all the more rewarding for the hard work and commitment these lads have shown.”

“I have had 10 incredible years at Eastwood Community Football Club & can truly say this season has been amongst the best.”

“This season has been extra special too with some of these lads participating in the FA Youth Cup whilst also making progression into the clubs Under 21’s structure. Many of these lads have navigated their way through a combined 41 game season which excludes those undertaken with the Academy.”

“It’s been an amazing journey seeing players grow and develop over the years. Four of which have been part of the team for five years, whilst four have served for a decade. Special mention to Timmo my assistant manager for his  help and support over the years too, a great guy and great friend.”

“Finally thank-you to the Chairman and staff for providing the platform to support, inspire, and grow the next generation of footballers at Eastwood CFC.”

Matt Clowes
U18 Manager

Going forward as Matt mentioned five of the boys are part of our Full-Time Academy Football & Education Programme, whilst a further seven lads, have broken into the Under 21’s meaning over 80% of the squad will likely continue their football at Eastwood CFC all with the ambition and aim to break into the First Team.

Reuben Clowes who is one of the four players to play every season since Under 8’s, is the only player so far to make his debut for the First Team but we hope to see more next season.

Thank you Matt & Timmo and good luck to all the players for the new season. The team will have their final send off on Friday 4th July we are sure it will be an emotional one.