Over 400 pupils took part in the Michaelmas football programme with 27 teams across Junior and Senior girls and boys playing over 200 competitive matches against other schools and enjoying several lengthy runs in Cup competitions.
Our 1stXI boys’ team have had a tremendous season, having played 27 games, winning 24 and drawing two with only one loss. Captains Ben (D) and Marcus (C) have remained impressive leaders of the team throughout, with Ben being top goal scorer in the squad. New members this year were Will (F), Ted (F), Danail (D), Ashton (D), and Wilfred (H) all of whom have helped contribute towards the team’s great success.
In the Boodles ISFA Cup our Senior boys conceded just once on their path to the final. Notable victories over formidable opponents including Manchester Grammar School, Ardingly, Shrewsbury, and Millfield, led them to the final. This set the stage for a thrilling showdown against Cheadle Hulme School. In a gripping match, Bradfield emerged triumphant with a 3-2 win, showcasing exceptional performances from co-Captains Ben (D) and Marcus (C) along with the remarkable skills of Ike (G). This triumph marks Bradfield’s third Boodles ISFA Cup victory in six years, further demonstrating the team’s consistency and excellence on the field.
In the Hudl League the boys went head-to-head against nine of the nation’s top footballing schools. Bradfield’s stellar run, comprising six wins and two draws, propelled them to the Hudl League title for the second time in three years. A triumphant final day at Loughborough University saw the boys in blue seal the League title with a commanding 5-0 victory over fifth-placed Royal Russell further solidifying their dominance on the pitch.
Our 1stXI were losing semi-finalists in The English Schools FA (ESFA) competition to Barking Academy, a notable achievement considering the competition is open to all schools within the UK. Bradfield College progressed further than any other independent school.
Congratulations to David Chatwin who assumed the role of Director of Football Performance at Bradfield last September following his tenure at Charlton Athletic Football Club. His coaching expertise and professional experience have played a pivotal role in guiding the team to success.
There was further success for another of the Senior teams with the 3rdXI progressing to the fourth round of their ESFA Cup. The third round was an eventful one after a Jared (D) hat-trick helped the team to extra time at 3-3. Thankfully, the boys kept their composure from the spot and managed to win 4-2 on penalties. Special mention must go to Fraser (H) for his saves during the shoot-out. Our U14As made it all the way to the fifth round of their ESFA Cup but were defeated by Matthew Arnold School after a series of four high scoring games in the previous rounds.
At the end of February the U15 boys’ futsal team put in a brilliant performance to beat Berkshire Futsal 7-6. The result was particularly impressive as the boys only had six players who demonstrated great determination and effort. Well done to Aris (H), Dimitri (C), Pablo (A), Joshua (C), Tom (F) and Cooper (D).
Several of our boys represented the ISFA national team squads across age groups and congratulations must go to those pupils selected: Aris (H) (U16), Rio (D) (U16), Keiran (G) (U16), Torren (H) (U16), Ben (D) (U18), Carter-Blue (D) (U17). These boys have attended several ISFA camps already and will continue to represent Bradfield within the ISFA programme.
