In the landmark 125th anniversary year of the football club, there was no shortage of achievements to celebrate in what will go down as the greatest season in Three Bridges FC history.

The men’s first team secured a historic Isthmian League and Sussex Senior Cup double, earning promotion to the Isthmian Premier Division — Step 3 football — for the first time ever. Their unforgettable Sussex Senior Cup triumph at the Amex Stadium also delivered the first senior county cup success in the club’s history.

It was a year of silverware across the club, with the women’s side also completing a magnificent league and cup double by winning the SCWGFL Premier Division and SCWGFL Challenge Cup. Meanwhile, the Under-18s enjoyed a superb campaign of their own, finishing third in a fiercely competitive Isthmian Youth League while also reaching the Sussex Cup Final for the first time in the club’s history at youth level.

With so much to celebrate, the evening brought together club legends, players, managers, volunteers and supporters in a formal setting complete with a three-course à la carte meal and complimentary wine on every table. More than just an awards night, it was a celebration of the past, present and future of a football club that continues to sit proudly at the heart of the local community.

Hosted by Graham McDonnell, the evening began with the Under-18s awards, presented by manager Matt Calver following a hugely encouraging season for his talented young side.

Under-18s Celebrated After Memorable Campaign

Unsurprisingly, explosive striker George Falzon emerged as the biggest winner of the night for the Under-18s, collecting a hat-trick of honours with the Players’ Player of the Season, Supporters’ Player of the Season and Top Goalscorer awards.

Blessed with pace, technical ability and a natural eye for goal, Falzon lit up the pitch throughout the campaign while also gaining valuable experience with appearances for the first team and an impressive loan spell at Crawley Down Gatwick.

Manager’s Player of the Season went to captain Harley Byrne, whose leadership and consistency at the heart of defence proved invaluable both on and off the pitch throughout the season. Goal of the Season was deservedly awarded to Kian McDonnell for his spectacular acrobatic strike away at Whyteleafe — a moment of brilliance fitting for such a memorable campaign.

Women’s Team Crown Historic Double-Winning Season

Next to take to the stage was women’s first-team manager Joe Clarke, who oversaw a remarkable debut season in charge. With a squad featuring many 17 and 18-year-old players, Bridges’ women stormed to an unforgettable league and cup double in emphatic fashion.

Captain Martha Behr was the standout winner, taking home both the Players’ Player of the Season and Top Goalscorer awards after a superb campaign leading from the front. Bo Hughes collected the Manager’s Player of the Season award in recognition of her outstanding performances throughout the year.

The Supporters’ Player of the Season award was shared between experienced figure Pam McDonnell and rising young talent Ava Clarke, highlighting both the strength of leadership and exciting future within the squad. Caitlin Griffin’s superb finish following an outstanding team move earned her the Goal of the Season award.

Men’s First Team Complete Greatest Season in Club History

Finally came the presentation for the historic men’s first-team squad, led by manager Jamie Crellin after a season that will forever be remembered in Three Bridges folklore.

Club legend Noel Leighton was the evening’s biggest winner, collecting the Manager’s Player of the Season, Players’ Player of the Season and Top Goalscorer awards after another extraordinary campaign in a Bridges shirt.

Supporters’ Player of the Season went to Reece Hallard, whose outstanding second consecutive season saw him score 36 goals — many of them arriving at crucial moments during the title-winning campaign. Young Player of the Season was awarded to Hayden Velvick, whose explosive attacking displays, relentless work ethic and infectious personality made him a firm favourite among teammates and supporters alike.

Goal of the Season went to Ade Adeyinka for one of his trademark thunderous strikes, while additional presentations recognised two major milestones — Noel Leighton reaching 100 goals for the club and Reece Hallard making his 100th appearance in a Bridges shirt.

Special Club Awards

The Dave Sharpe 101% Award was presented by chairman Paul Faili and Alf Blackler to Dan Ferreira, who also celebrated reaching 200 appearances for the football club. Ferreira’s commitment, passion and consistency have made him a true embodiment of Three Bridges FC.

The Paul Terry Clubperson of the Year award went to Keith Richardson in recognition of his tireless work around the club over many years. Groundsman, team bus driver, matchday security officer and countless other roles — Richardson’s contribution to the football club has been immeasurable.

Chairman Paul Faili also presented the prestigious Bobby Nash Award to first-team manager Jamie Crellin in recognition of his exceptional achievements this season and his outstanding contribution to the club over a number of years.

The formalities concluded with an emotional speech from chairman Paul Faili, who paid tribute to everyone — past and present — who has helped shape Three Bridges FC into the club it is today.

Once the speeches ended, the celebrations truly began. Chants of “Champions!” echoed throughout the venue long into the night as players, supporters and staff came together to celebrate a season built on success, unity and togetherness.

On behalf of everyone connected with Three Bridges FC, thank you to all those who have supported the club, followed the journey and shared in this unforgettable season. We look forward to welcoming you back to Jubilee Field next season as a new chapter begins, with fresh challenges and exciting new horizons ahead.