Otford United Football Club

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.

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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.

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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 36 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 coluors 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.

 

If anyone has some knowledge of Otford United’s history to add, please get in touch with info@otfordunitedfc.com. We would love to hear from you!