Author: Craig Davenport

We are proud to shine a light—quite literally—on our exceptional partnership with Wiseman Lighting, the official lighting sponsor of the Hellenic League.

From the very beginning, Wiseman Lighting has stood side-by-side with us, delivering industry-leading LED floodlighting solutions that raise the standard for clubs across not only our league, but every club across multi sports up and down the country. Their commitment goes far beyond product supply—they offer a complete, start-to-finish service, including expert design, installation, maintenance, and crucially, support!!

At the Hellenic League, we don’t just value Wiseman Lighting—we believe in them. Their passion, professionalism, and unwavering support for grassroots football aligns perfectly with our mission to grow and empower clubs at every level. Their lights don’t just illuminate pitches; they power opportunity, ambition, and the future of our game.

This is more than sponsorship. This is a partnership built on trust, shared values, and a mutual drive for excellence.

We’re proud to promote Wiseman Lighting, and we look forward to continuing this strong relationship as we light the way forward—together.

Find out more about the incredible work they do at www.wisemanlighting.co.uk.

Proudly supported by our valued sponsor, uhlsport

The new season is nearly upon us, and with The FA’s club allocations now confirmed—subject to any final appeals—we’re gearing up for another action-packed campaign across the Hellenic League.

With old rivalries renewed, new faces joining the fray, and a few teams granted a second chance after late-season drama, the 2025/26 season promises to deliver everything we love about non-league football: passion, unpredictability, and no shortage of entertainment (plus the occasional questionable refereeing decision, with some added questionable team line ups, some traditions never fade).

Both the Premier Division and Division One are stacked with talent, ambition, and a healthy dose of local pride. Whether it’s a long-established club chasing promotion glory or a fresh challenger looking to make their mark, there’s no shortage of storylines waiting to unfold. And let’s face it—every match is a cup final when there are bragging rights and bacon rolls on the line.

Supporters can look forward to closely fought battles, surprise results, and the kind of grassroots football that makes you feel every tackle, every goal, and every last-minute winner. There’s a lot on the line this year, and every club will be out to prove a point.

Hellenic League Premier Division (2025/26):

Cinderford Town, Cirencester Town, Corsham Town, Cribbs, Droitwich Spa, Fairford Town, Hallen, Hereford Pegasus, Highworth Town, Longlevens, Lydney Town, Mangotsfield United, Pershore Town, Roman Glass St George, Royal Wootton Bassett Town, Slimbridge, Thornbury Town, Tuffley Rovers, Westfields, Worcester Raiders

Hellenic League Division One (2025/26):

Alcester Town, Bewdley Town, Brimscombe & Thrupp, Carterton, Cheltenham Saracens, Chipping Sodbury Town, Clanfield 85, FC Stratford, Ludlow Town, Malmesbury Victoria, Newent Town, Redditch Borough, Shortwood United, Stonehouse Town, Thame United Reserves, Tytherington Rocks, Wantage Town, Wellington, Woodford United

As always, a huge thank you goes out to uhlsport, whose continued support helps us keep the league thriving and the game growing. From matchday kits to training ground dreams, their partnership is a vital part of everything we do.

So get your calendars marked, your scarves ready, and your voices warmed up. The road to glory begins again—and this season, expect the unexpected.

And to beat you all to the question…. Fixtures are being worked on but as normal, won’t be ready for some time till other keys dates are known from The FA. Please don’t shoot the messenger!

#HellenicLeague #NonLeagueDrama #uhlsport25/26

As we gear up for another thrilling season of Division 2 football, we want to take a moment to extend our heartfelt appreciation to a partner who has stood beside us with unwavering support—Batemans Sports.

For over five years, Batemans Sports has been the official sponsor of our Presidents Cup and Chairman’s Challenge Cup competitions, playing a vital role in helping us deliver competitive, high-quality football to our clubs and communities. Their long-standing commitment is a shining example of what it means to invest in grassroots sport.

Based in Stroud, Batemans Sports is a trusted name in sporting excellence, offering a wide range of premium-quality gear and equipment for football, rugby, cricket, running, and more. Their passion for sport is reflected in every product and in their ongoing support of local leagues just like ours.

We invite everyone in our football family to check out their exceptional range at: www.batemanssports.co.uk

League Chairman Bill Beech shared his appreciation:

“Batemans Sports has been more than just a sponsor—they’ve been a true partner in our mission to grow and support local football. On behalf of the entire league, I want to thank them for their continued loyalty, generosity, and belief in what we do.”

We are incredibly proud and privileged to be backed by a business that values community and sport so deeply. Their support enables us to continue building competitions that players, fans, and clubs can be proud of.

Here’s to Batemans Sports—thank you for being such an essential part of our journey.

#BatemansSports #PresidentsCup #ChairmansChallengeCup #GrassrootsFootball #CommunityChampions #ThankYou #LocalFootballMatters

As part of our continued growth and commitment to our member clubs. We have launched a new Events calendar on our website.

www.hellenicleague.co.uk

Head to league news and find the link.

Here you can subscribe to the calendar and as things are added this will beam down to you device and any joint calendars. This is a simple way to keep up with key dates for the league.

We are committed to showing our clubs and members that we are listening and where we can, we will grow and find new ways to engage with you all.

Monday, May 5, 2025 will be a day remembered in the history books of the Hellenic League.

For the first time in the league’s proud history, an all-female team of match officials will take charge of the Hellenic League Cup Final—marking a groundbreaking moment for equality, representation, and progression in grassroots football.

Leading the team on the day will be Referee Imogen Hooper, whose calm authority and consistent decision-making have earned her respect across the region. She will be supported on the touchlines by Assistant Referees Rosie Johns and Ava Jordan, both known for their sharp focus and outstanding positional awareness. In the technical area, Lola Pollard will serve as Fourth Official, bringing her steady professionalism to this high-profile fixture.

This historic appointment is more than symbolic—it’s a celebration of talent, dedication, and the continual evolution of the game. These four women have excelled through the ranks, breaking barriers and setting new standards along the way. Their appointment to the cup final is thoroughly deserved and reflects the high regard in which they are held across the refereeing community.

The Hellenic League is extremely proud to have these incredible officials as part of our refereeing family. Their achievement not only inspires the next generation of female officials but also underscores our commitment to supporting diversity and excellence in every aspect of the game.

League Referee Officer Craig Davenport shared his pride in their journey, saying:

“I couldn’t be prouder to know and work with Imogen, Rosie, Ava, and Lola. They have excelled this season in both the men’s and women’s game, showing professionalism, resilience, and outstanding ability every time they step onto the pitch. It’s been a privilege to watch them develop, and I truly believe this is just the beginning. I look forward to seeing how far they can climb—because the top is well within their reach.”

As history is written on May 5th, the message is clear: talent knows no gender. And thanks to trailblazers like Hooper, Johns, Jordan, and Pollard, the future of football officiating looks brighter than ever.

The final whistle on Monday won’t just signal the end of a match—it’ll echo as the start of a new chapter

Abingdon United have secured their long-awaited return to Step 5 football following a commanding 2-0 victory over local rivals Wantage Town in the Step 6 play-off final.

In front of a buzzing crowd and under the pressure of derby day tension, both teams went in level at the break, locked at 0-0. But it was Abingdon who rose to the occasion in the second half, striking twice to seal a deserved win and promotion.

It’s been a phenomenal season for the club – from semi-final success to final glory – topped off by an emotional night that will live long in the memory of players and supporters alike. Tonight, Abingdon is yellow.

Congratulations to manager John Mills and his squad for their grit, determination, and brilliant football throughout a campaign full of highs and unforgettable moments.

As the league season draws to a close, all eyes now turn to the cup finals, where Wantage Town still have a shot at silverware. But for tonight – it’s all about Abingdon United.

Enjoy the celebrations and rest well. We can’t wait to see what the 2025/26 season brings!

Congratulations to SC Inkberrow on a fantastic achievement — securing promotion to Step 4 of the National League System with a brilliant win over Highworth Town!

A huge well done to everyone at the club — players, staff, and supporters — for all the hard work that’s gone into this incredible milestone. Enjoy the celebrations, you’ve earned it!

#SCInkberrow #Promotion #Step4Bound #NonLeagueFootball