Dover's second string relish midweek action

Three new clubs have been admitted into the second division of the Kent League, writes Stephen McCartney.

Faversham Town (whose first team play in the Kent League premier), Margate (Ryman Premier League) and Dover Athletic (Ryman League Division One South) are welcomed with open arms.

Faversham’s second string were playing in a local league last season, Dover Athletic played Suburban League football and Margate didn't have a reserve side due to their exile.

Margate have just started trials for their re-formed reserve side and Dover Athletic’s reserve team manager Gary Whittle is looking forward to playing all their games in the Garden of England.

All other Kent League sides will also relish their trips to both Hartsdown Park and Crabble.

“Following our resignation from the Suburban League, I am pleased to confirm our acceptance into the Kent League,” Whittle told www.doverathletic.com

Whittle, whose had a spell as first team manager, explained why the club has opted for a move back into the Kent League.

“Our resignation from the Suburban League was as a result of there being little scope to facilitate midweek fixtures.

“This would have allowed first-team fringe players the opportunity to keep match fit should they not have played for the first team the previous Saturday.

“Thankfully there is opportunity within the Kent League to have midweek fixtures which will clearly benefit the club as a whole.

“I am particularly looking forward to this forthcoming season as the nucleus of the younger element of last year's reserve-youth team players who we have retained and who subsequently finished a credible third in the Suburban Premier League now have the opportunity to develop and improve this coming term.”

Whittle hopes the club’s youngsters will follow in the footsteps of first team player, long throw specialist, Craig Cloke, whose come through the club’s ranks to become a mainstay in their first team.

He said: “During the summer break a number of these players were asked to join other clubs. However, it appears all remain loyal to Dover Athletic.

“To be honest, I am not really interested in the league we play in but my focus is to ensure individual players improve and may one day represent Dover Athletic at first-team level.

“There remains a passage open for players who demonstrate the necessary attributes to pass from the reserves into the first-team set-up as can be verified in recent years.

“We have parted company with players from last season’s squad due to their age and their lack of opportunity in breaking into the first-team squad; this is a natural occurring event at all football clubs and should not be looked upon as a negative.

“This leaves the opportunity for both new trialists and retained players to have their chance, again a natural process at all football clubs.

“From a personal point of view, I am now entering my third season with Dover Athletic and to this day remain proud to represent the club and therefore remain as enthusiastic as ever.

“This can be seen from time to time with my antics on the touchline during matches, especially when things are not going well, I get especially frustrated during these times because I know both individuals and the team can do so much better but, above all, continued poor standards are not acceptable when wearing a Dover shirt.

“The importance of players learning from these types of poor performances and wanting to improve and put it right the next time or at training is essential in their development.

“Hopefully both Bill Friend and I can assist in Dover’s future success. The real buzz for me is the feeling I get every time when approaching the ground whether it be matchdays or training.

“I would like to close by saying that should any player, supporter, parent, guardian etc wish to discuss any issues then please contact either Bill Friend or myself at the club to which we will be happy to discuss your issues.”

Visit Dover Athletic's website:  www.doverathletic.com