Formation and Early Years: 1898 – 1906
- Founded in 1898 as Otford United Football Club.
- Initially played in the Edenbridge League along with other local village teams.
Founding Member of Sevenoaks and District League: 1906
- In 1906, Otford United was a founding member of the Sevenoaks and District League, created due to the proximity of local village teams to Sevenoaks.
Early 20th Century
- Continuously participated in the Sevenoaks and District League.
- Played matches with a commitment to attractive possession football.
Late 1970s – Early 1980s
- First Team joined the Kent County League Division 2.
- The teams were run by a committee until the appointment of David Dugay as manager in 1982.
1980s
- Under David Dugay’s management, First Team won the Kent County League Division 2 and gained promotion to Division 1.
- Subsequently promoted to the Premier Division.
Mid 1980s
- First Team finished as runners-up in the Kent County League Premier Division.
- Won six Sevenoaks Charity Senior Cup finals and the Kent Junior Cup.
Early 2000s
- Reserves joined the Kent County League.
- After several seasons, Reserves rejoined the Sevenoaks League.
2012
- The Third Team, which had been playing in the Sevenoaks League, was disbanded.
2019: Merger with Otford United Juniors
- Otford United Juniors merged with Otford United, forming a single club that offers both youth and senior football.
- Aimed to provide a clear pathway for players to develop from the youth program to County or local men’s league football.
Present
- Otford United FC currently operates 32 junior teams in the Crowborough, Ashford, Maidstone and Kent Girls Leagues with over 150 young players.
- First Team plays in the Kent County League Division 1 Central & East.
- Reserve Team competes in Division 3 West of the Kent County League.
Future Ambitions
- Building from youth teams to u18s and the reserve team to support the first team’s ambitions.
- Creating different levels for young players to experience as they grow older, ensuring a clear pathway within the club.
- Aiming to retain players and compete at a high standard.
Historical Challenges and Milestones
- Transition from committee-run teams to professional management under David Dugay.
- Winning promotions and league titles in the Kent County League.
- Establishing a strong identity with the colors Amber and Black.
- Multiple cup victories, including the Sevenoaks Charity Senior Cup and the Kent Junior Cup.
Infrastructure Development
- Expansion of facilities through stone-picking exercises and land purchase by Otford Parish Council.
This plotted history outlines the journey of Otford United Football Club from its formation in 1898 to its current position, including its achievements, mergers, progress, and future ambitions. It reflects the dedication to attractive possession football, development of players through youth programs, and the club’s enduring presence in the football community.