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Writer's pictureRob Stevens

Showcase Match club profile - Langley F.C: The Merrymakers' rapid rise from grassroots to non-league football



PICTURE: It has taken Langley Football Club less than 15 years to progress from Saturday grassroots football to non-league football within the Combined Counties Football League.


Langley Football Club was founded in 2010 by two local brothers from the Langley Estate; Peter and Leon Phillips, who both had professional experience within the football industry.

Recognising the need for a football club in their home area, the Phillips brothers established Langley F.C as a community-centred club to allow talented local players to play competitive Saturday football.

Their vision was to create a club that would not only compete on the field, but would also embody a strong sense of community and pride in Langley.

Langley F.C has grown impressively since its formation, building on each year’s successes to become one of the most respected football clubs in the region. Over the past 12 years, the Club has achieved a string of accomplishments and was awarded the prestigious F.A. Charter Standard. This accolade recognises the club’s high-quality football provision, commitment to best practices, and development of players at all levels.

The football club’s commitment to professionalism and community spirit has set it apart as a role model for other amateur clubs, creating a nurturing environment for players of all ages and abilities.

Langley F.C’s ascent has been nothing short of remarkable. The club holds a record in local football for its rapid progression from the lowest tier of amateur grassroots football (Division Four of the East Berkshire Football League) to now be playing Step Six football in the Combined Counties Football League, via the Hellenic Football League. This is an achievement that few clubs can match.

PICTURE: Langley F.C. Reserves renew their rivalry with old foes Chalvey Sports in the first Showcase Match of the season at the Arbour Park Stadium in Slough on Saturday 30th November (7.30pm kick off). Click here to purchase your matchday tickets at our discounted rates.


This leap is a testament to the club’s ambition, drive and determination to excel. Langley F.C has won every domestic honour at local level along the way, solidifying its reputation as a competitive force. This journey reflects the tireless efforts of players, coaches and volunteers, who have worked to make the football club a success both on and off the field.

The first team is currently managed by Michael East, who brings a wealth of experience and leadership to the role. Supporting him is Bradlee Greenwood, who overseas the Reserves side and helps foster the next generation of talent. Langley F.C has a vibrant youth program managed by Adam Rathmill and Lee Payne, with Demaro Woodruffe managing the Under 18s.

This structured pathway for young players reflects the club’s deep commitment to youth development, ensuring that young talent is nurtured and allowed to flourish. The youth teams continue to grow and succeed season after season, contributing to the club’s exciting prospects.

In recent years, the club has grown to a point where it now requires its own dedicated facilities to meet its expanding needs. Langley F.C has secured planning permission for a new home in Langley, a project that will further strengthen its community ties and provide a lasting legacy.

In the meantime, the club is in its second season of a ground-share arrangement with Uxbridge F.C at Honeycroft, having previously spent three seasons at the Arbour Park Stadium, home to Slough Town F.C.

The club eagerly anticipates the move to its own grounds, which will serve as a central hub for both its teams and supporters, and will cement its place as a pillar of the local community.

Langley F.C. Reserves are currently in fourth position in the East Berkshire League Premier Division table, with five wins and a draw from their eight league matches, and only five points behind the leaders. The Merrymakers have already done the double over KS Gryf this season, and can boast wins against F.C. Baylis United, A.F.C Reading and Cookham Dean.

Tai Maddox and Owen McCarthy will be the two danger men for Langley in the Showcase Match, both having netted five goals already this season in nine and five appearances respectively.

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