Kirkby Stephen Football Club are celebrating a remarkable achievement, with their senior team having clinched promotion to the Westmorland League first division and won a cup competition.
This came after a stellar season that saw the team finish in second place in Division I.
Their promotion marks a significant milestone for the club and is testament to the hard work and dedication of players, coaching staff and supporters.
The team demonstrated consistent performances and resilience throughout the 2023-24 campaign, culminating in a well deserved place in the top flight.
Manager Mark Modlin, who has been at the helm for two years, expressed his pride in the team’s accomplishment. “This promotion is a dream come true for everyone involved with Kirkby Stephen Football Club,” he said. “The players have shown incredible commitment, and the support from our fans has been unwavering. We are excited to take on new challenges in the first division.”
Key players who contributed to this successful campaign included Ross Jackson, who was the team’s top scorer, closely followed by Matt Branthwaite.
Charles Bowman has taken a player/coach role this year and his unwavering commitment to the club has really inspired the renewed energy at the club.
New player James Hanson has brought enthusiasm and legs to the team. Their efforts, along with collective teamwork, were pivotal in securing crucial victories and accumulating the points needed for promotion.
Kirkby also lifted the Westmorland FA Junior Cup. The team competed in a well-supported final at Kendal Town against Endmoor KGR Reserves. It was a well fought game with excellent chances for both sides but Kirkby clinched it just before the final whistle in extra-time.
In addition to the on-field success, the club is thrilled to announce plans for a major expansion. With the hope of building an extension to create a new clubhouse, they are aiming to provide refreshments and amenities for players and supporters of both the senior and junior teams.
This new clubhouse will be a hub for the community, enhancing the matchday experience and fostering a stronger bond among fans and players.
“This new clubhouse will be a fantastic addition to our facilities,” said Katy Modlin, club secretary. “It will offer a welcoming space for everyone to gather, celebrate victories, and support our teams. We’re committed to making Kirkby Stephen Football Club a cornerstone of our community.” The clubhouse is still in its first stages. Plans have been drawn up and the club hopes to submit them for planning permission soon.
Fundraising has already started. Club branded bobble hats have been sold and were very useful over the winter months for those stood on the sidelines.
Junior teams have all been busy with colouring sheets. Each has 100 bricks and every time young players sell a brick they colour one in — the player who sells the most bricks in each team will win a prize, so supporters are urged to support the juniors and buy one.
On the May bank holiday weekend, the club hosted an “old versus new” match, with many former players returning to action. The “old” squad consisted of over 20 players of mixed age and ability. Mark Modlin polished off his boots and made a comeback in the final quarter.
The current senior team went in front before the “oldies” drew level with a goal from Ben Collinson, followed by a “worldie” from David Law (Smiler).
Charles Bowman pulled it back for the current seniors and took the match to penalties. The current seniors snatched a win, narrowly, on penalties.
Parrot Park was a hive of activity, with many junior players turning up with their families to cheer on coaches, dads and uncles. The supporters were out in full force, as they have been throughout the season.
Katy Modlin, Sarah Allison and Lisa Steadman served refreshments on the sidelines to help raise funds for the clubhouse project and the sun shone to make it a fantastic day.
However, the fun did not stop there. Many continued their celebrations at the town’s sports and social club, watching the FA Cup final and attending the senior team’s end of year presentation.
Awards were presented to current senior players: top goalscorer and young player — Ross Jackson; coaches’ player of the year — Charles Bowman, for his total dedication to the team and club; players’ player — Sam Bell, who has had an excellent season, solid in defence.
And club man of the year was Craig Ostle, who not only plays an important part in the senior team but also coaches under-12 and under-seven teams and has held the role of club chairman for several years.
Sam Robinson was rewarded for his dedication to training this year. The day was a huge success and raised over £1,000 for the clubhouse fund.
The junior teams have also had tremendous success this season, with young players developing their skills and forming tightly knit teams.
Volunteer coaches have played a crucial role, offering excellent support and guidance, which has been instrumental in nurturing the talent and potential of these young athletes.
The promotion and expansion plans are expected to bring a boost to Kirkby Stephen, as higher division matches and improved facilities attract larger crowds and increased attention from sponsors.
Local businesses are gearing up to support the team and the new clubhouse, reflecting the town’s collective enthusiasm for their football club’s success.
As the team prepares for the next season in the first division, plans are already under way to strengthen the squad. The management is keen to ensure the team is competitive and capable of holding its own against more formidable opponents.
Fans and residents of Kirkby Stephen are encouraged to continue their support as the football club embarks on this exciting new chapter. The club’s success story serves as an inspiration to many, showcasing the power of determination and community spirit.
Any local businesses keen to support the club in their fundraising efforts should contact their Facebook pages or email kirkbystephenjfc@hotmail.com
The journey to the first division has been long and challenging. But Kirkby Stephen FC has proved that with hard work, dedication and strong community backing, dreams can indeed become reality.
The club would like to publicly thank the coaches, committee and supporters — especially Shaun Elliot for his outstanding contribution to keeping the grounds in excellent condition with some of the finest pitches in the league; Jean and Kenneth Brunskill for their fantastic support and keeping the kit in top condition; Tommy and Beverly Prime and Jess Chapman for providing the after-match refreshments; and the club’s committee.
