A decade in, the Poets’ Corner FC story is ready to turn another page
In sport (just as with life itself), they say great things can be achieved from very simple beginnings. That was certainly the case when dads Trevor Wilson and James Evans sent a group of players out for their first competitive game way back in 2015.
Few knew it at the time, but George Seary’s goal in a narrow defeat to Hove FC would signify the kicking-off of a footballing legacy that would inspire not just the footballing ambitions of hundreds of young footballers, but the West Hove community, and beyond.
Co-founder and general manager Wilson, who has spent a decade with that opening group of under-7s and is now leading those same players into senior football for the upcoming 2025/26 season, says: “Back then there was a certain level of elitism in youth football in the area. That’s not what we were about and we knew there was room for a more inclusive, community-driven approach.
“To look back and know that through all the huge expansion of the club we’ve stuck to those morals – where any child, regardless of age or ability can play football – is really satisfying for us.”
For the coming season, Poets’ Corner – which plays most matches at Wish Park – has 19 youth sides (boys and girls), a men’s team and even a ‘vets’ side. Over 250 players now wear the badge, ably assisted by 40 volunteer coaches and a nine-person committee.
“There’s often a look of fear on the faces of parents when they’re invited to step up and help on matchdays!” laughs club president James Evans. “Yet it’s accepted that without the help of volunteers at all levels it would have been impossible for us to grow in the way we have.
“We’re also heavily indebted to a raft of brilliant sponsors – some of Brighton’s most recognisable businesses and brands – whose presence means we can keep costs down for parents.”
While, across thousands of matches, the club has had its fair share of challenges on the field of play over the years, issues away from matchday have often seemed more profound. From Covid to the theft of £3,000-worth of goalposts; from pitch issues (including a circus setting up just hours before an under-15s fixture); to the huge expense in arranging winter training around the city; the club currently uses eight different facilities. It seems new challenges always come about.
“You’ve got to approach things with a patient mindset. As a non-profit club we can’t throw huge sums of money at what we want to do, so we accept things take time,” says Evans. “Our dialogue with Brighton & Hove Council is progressive and positive – we all have a job to do in bringing competitive sport, exercise and participation to the kids of Hove, and we’re always looking at new ways to move forward.
“While silverware is great, our biggest wins are often found in those small moments in matches – a special goal, a show of superb sportsmanship… they are actually the things that count.”
As for the future, Poets continues to build, most recently with the significant appointment of Bill Clifford, a big presence in local grassroots football, and moves to create additional teams at all age groups. In addition, steps are being taken to secure a permanent home in the city. “Despite Hove’s size, it has no professional football club,” says Wilson.
“The space is there to really build something that the community can get its teeth into. And every step along the path towards realising that ambition means children can savour the incredible feeling of being part of a team, a club, a community.”
To find out more about playing, coaching or sponsorship opportunities please contact James Evans at
james@poetscornerfc.co.uk, or visit
