A popular grassroots football manager is standing down after 25 years of commitment on and off the pitch.
Mark Harsant will relinquish his managerial role at Stroud League Taverners FC, who have announced that the club will no longer run a first team in Stroud League Division 1 for the 2025/26 season. Instead, the club will consolidate and focus on operating a single side competing in Stroud League Division 4 South.
Reflecting on his time in charge, Mark Harsant said: “It’s been a privilege to manage Taverners and I’m proud of what we’ve achieved together over recent years. It feels the right time to step aside and I’m sure the club can rebuild with Louis and Simon at the helm. I wish them and the committee the very best.”
From next season, the team will be co-managed by Simon Wilkins and Louis Wilkins.
This decision follows the departure of several players who have either chosen to test themselves at higher-level clubs, sought new challenges elsewhere, or stepped away from football altogether. Despite every effort to bring in fresh talent, the club has been unable to recruit the numbers required to remain competitive at Division 1 level, making the difficult but necessary call to fold the first team.
Club Chairman, Mike Stratford said: “This is obviously a tough moment for Taverners, but restructuring ensures the club can continue to compete at a level that suits both our players and our position right now. We’re proud of what the first team has achieved in recent years at the top end of Division 1, including two cup final appearances, and we wish all those moving on the very best. We also know the team is in safe hands with Simon and Louis as we look forward to the future.”
Taverners FC remain fully committed to grassroots football, offering a competitive and welcoming environment for local players and supporters. The club now looks ahead with optimism to the 2025/26 season in Division 4S and welcome any new players wishing to play for the club.
Social media @tavernersfc
