It is important that we get the right players who want to join for the right reasons, says Bearsted boss Kevin Stevens

BEARSTED manager Kevin Stevens says he is looking forward to playing in a higher league next season.

The Bears won the final Kent Invicta League championship and were promoted to the Southern Counties East Football League Premier Division.


CHAMPIONS: Bearsted celebrate winning the fifth and last Kent Invicta League title last season.
Photo: Alan Coomes

The Otham based club kick-off their pre-season campaign with a home game against Gravesham Borough on Thursday 7 July, before hosting Ryman League Division One South side Hythe Town at Honey Lane a couple days later.

“After winning the Kent Invicta League last season, I am looking forward to our first season in the Southern Counties East Football League Premier Division,” said Stevens.

“I already have a very competitive squad but with our promotion I am looking to add some new players as we need to strengthen and add competition in certain areas.

“It is important that we get the right players who want to join for the right reasons.  Players who want to improve and have the desire and commitment to that of the current squad.

“We are back for pre-season training in a week’s time. This will include seven very strong games to prepare us for the season ahead. These games include two very good Ryman South sides being Hythe Town and Cray Wanderers.

“We also have the League’s Challenge Shield game against Glebe to look forward to.”

Stevens, meanwhile, continues the search for a goalkeeper coach ahead of the new campaign.

Visit Bearsted’s website: www.bearstedfc.co.uk