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125 Years of Heart & Heritage

Celebrating the story of Shortwood United FC

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Foundations and Early Success

1900

Shortwood United was founded in Nailsworth, beginning life at Nailsworth Playing Field before moving to Table Land, Wallow Green, and eventually settling at Meadowbank in 1972.

1970s

The club dominated the Stroud League, earning promotion to the Northern Senior League and later the Gloucestershire County League.

1981-82

Shortwood entered the Hellenic League. Despite a tough first season and relegation, the team immediately bounced back with a runners-up finish.

The Golden 1980s

1983

Shortwood lifted both the Hellenic Division One Cup and the GFA Trophy, marking a major step forward.

1984

The Wood were crowned Hellenic League Champions - one of the club's proudest achievements.

1990

A historic treble: the Hellenic League title, the GFA Trophy, and the Stroud Charity Cup.

Southern League Rise & FA Cup Heroics

2007-10

A resurgence began with a 5th-place finish, followed by the thrilling 2008/09 season - 99 points and 99 goals.

2011-12

A landmark campaign: FA Vase quarter-finals, Floodlit Cup final, GFA Trophy final, and promotion to the Southern League.

2013-14

The club's greatest FA Cup run - defeating Aldershot before hosting Port Vale in front of 1,247 fans and a live TV audience.

Challenges and Rebuilding

2015-18

Stability under Alex Sykes was followed by financial pressures and ground grading issues, forcing resignation from the Southern League.

2018-19

Relegation to Hellenic Division 1 West, but new leadership and youth development brought renewed optimism.

Promise, Loss & Renewal

2019-24

Progress under Chairman Will Reay, COVID disruption, new management teams, and the tragic passing of Will Reay in 2024.

The Next Chapter

2025-26

With Peter Beadle leading the first team and a stable squad in place, Shortwood United enters a new era with ambition and belief.

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