Our college team has been crowned league champions following an exceptional season marked by commitment, growth, and consistent high-level performances. The players have worked tirelessly throughout the year, and it has been incredibly rewarding to witness their development both on and off the pitch.

Heading into the final game of the season away at Rochdale, the task was clear — one point would be enough to secure the title. The team responded in the best possible way, producing a commanding display and securing a 5-1 victory to claim the league in style.

This result was a fitting end to a season defined by hard work, discipline, and togetherness. The group has matured impressively over the course of the campaign, demonstrating both technical quality and a strong mentality in key moments.

The success doesn’t stop there — the players will now make the journey to Wembley to lift the trophy, a deserved reward for their efforts and a moment they’ll remember for years to come. For some members of the squad, this marks a second piece of silverware in two seasons, highlighting the sustained progress and winning culture being built within the programme.

A huge congratulations to the players and everyone involved in this fantastic achievement.

Accrington Stanley Community Trust was proud to be shortlisted for the prestigious Non-Profit Organisation of the Year award at the 2025 Hyndburn Business Awards. The event, held at the stunning Accrington Town Hall, celebrated the achievements of businesses and charities that make a positive impact across the borough.

Representatives from the Community Trust attended the ceremony alongside fellow nominees, marking a night of inspiration, recognition, and community spirit. Although the Trust narrowly missed out on taking home the top prize—pipped to the post by another deserving local charity—the evening was a fantastic opportunity to showcase the Trust’s continued efforts in improving health, education, and cohesion across Hyndburn through sport and community engagement.

Martin Fearon, CEO of Accrington Stanley Community Trust, said:
“We are honoured to be recognised alongside so many amazing organisations doing vital work in our community. While we didn’t win, simply being nominated highlights the dedication of our team, volunteers, and supporters. We remain committed to growing our impact and delivering meaningful change across the borough.”

The Trust extends its congratulations to all the finalists and winners and looks forward to building on this recognition in the months ahead.

On Tuesday 13^th May our Accrington Stanley Community Trust veterans team held a friendly against Clitheroe Lads United, in what proved to be a close competitive game. The game started at a frantic pace with the Stanley Vets having the upper hand early on. Stanley were rewarded for their dominance when David Kendall picked the ball up in the middle of the park and found James Kemp with a delicious pass with the outside of the boot. Kempy did the rest and lofted the ball over the keeper and into the top corner to make it 1-0.

With the vets having trained less than 24 hours earlier, and with Clitheroe having some youthful players, fitness began to play its part and Clitheroe began to get on top. Two quick fire goals from Clitheroe who took advantage of their pace having scored with balls over the top to take the lead at half time.

Manager on the day Matt Booth acted quick and made changes at half time to try and sure things up at the back. This meant reverting to a back 5 and adding a third centre half. While Clitheroe were dominating possession, Stanley managed to equalise and make it 2-2 with a counter attack which started down the right wing. The ball was delivered into debutant Damo Burrell who initially swung wildly and missed. He then regained composure and after beating the defender managed to cooly slot the ball past the onrushing keeper.

Clitheroe managed to restore the lead through a penalty kick and another quickfire goal to make the score 4-2. Another tactical change from Stanley added more bodies into a midfield who had worked hard throughout the game. This paid off, with Clitheroe seemingly comfortable in possession, an intense press from our front 2 led to a loose pass which fell to the feet of Jay Nestor-Entwistle who smashed the ball into the top corner to make it 4-3.

With Stanley taking risks in the game to try and equalise, we were caught out at the back, and Clitheroe’s young winger made a darting run in the box with the ball only to be chopped down by centre half Damian Chamberlain. Some heroics from goalkeeper Calvin Westwell meant that the score stayed at 4-3 at the final whistle as he sprung down to his left to make a fingertip save.

After the game we welcomed local charity Accrington Street Angels to come and do a talk to both groups of players which detailed exactly what the charity does to keep vulnerable people safe on the streets of Accrington. After Paul’s talk to the group, we were able to donate the £185 that was raised at the recent game between Accrington Stanley and Burnley Veterans teams at the WHAM stadium. This was followed up by a team curry, a wonderful end to a really enjoyable evening for all!

Last week, Stanley Sports Hub played host to the EFL Utilita Kids Cup – League 2 Northern Finals, showcasing some of the most talented U11 school teams from across the North of England. Each League 2 club ran a local tournament to decide which primary school would represent them in this prestigious competition, with Barrow Primary proudly representing Accrington Stanley.

The event offered an incredible platform for young players to demonstrate their skills, with the day filled with thrilling matches that highlighted exceptional teamwork, skill, and sportsmanship. Each team gave their all on the pitch, fiercely competing for a spot in the next stage of the tournament. The atmosphere was electric, as players displayed their determination and passion throughout the day.

After an exciting series of matches, it was Tranmere Rovers who triumphed, securing their place in the next round of the competition narrowly beating Accrington Stanley in the final. As winners of the League 2 Northern Finals, Tranmere Rovers will now progress to the national final at Wembley, a dream come true for any young footballer. Congratulations to Tranmere for their fantastic performance, and a heartfelt well done to all the teams for making the event truly memorable.

Accrington Stanley Community Trust was honoured to host such a prestigious event, reinforcing its commitment to supporting grassroots football and inspiring the next generation of players. Events like the EFL Utilita Kids Cup offer young footballers invaluable experiences and opportunities to advance in the sport.

A special congratulations to Barrow Primary for representing Accrington Stanley with such determination and passion.