SCEFL First Division Summer Updates
With the new season edging ever closer, clubs across the SCEFL First Division have already started laying the foundations for their 2026/27 campaigns, with managerial appointments, structural changes and player recruitment plans beginning to take shape.
Welling Town have been one of the more active clubs on social media during the early summer, with the Boots unveiling Aaron Kidd as their new Head Coach. The club have outlined ambitious plans ahead of the new season and continue to build momentum both on and off the pitch.
There has been significant change at Rochester United following the departure of manager Michael Betts, who stepped down for personal reasons after an outstanding season which saw the Spartans finish third and reach the First Division Play-Off Final.
The club have acted quickly to appoint former player Andy Pierce as their new First Team Manager. Pierce arrives after impressing during his spell with Greenways, while club legend Tony Whitaker joins the management team in his first managerial role. Hicham Akhazzan remains in place as First Team Coach.
Newcomers Hythe Town have also appointed a new manager ahead of their return to SCEFL football. Andy Crush takes charge having previously enjoyed success with Deal Town Reserves and Hawkinge Town, where he guided the club to a league title last season. The Cannons believe the appointment will help drive the club’s rebuilding process and ambitions moving forward.
Meanwhile, Greenways have promoted from within, appointing former captain Jack Clark as First Team Manager. Clark will lead the club both on and off the pitch and will be assisted by Brad Brooker, who joins the management team as Assistant Manager ahead of the new campaign.
At Croydon, the Trams have strengthened their football structure with the appointment of Sean Scannell as Director of Football. The former professional brings considerable experience to the role and represents a significant addition behind the scenes.
There has also been change at Tooting Bec, where Assistant Manager Dwight Barnett has departed the club. Barnett leaves after helping guide Bec to two trophy successes and moves on to pursue further opportunities within his coaching career.
Elsewhere, Staplehurst Monarchs have announced that First Team trials will take place this Saturday as preparations continue for the new season. Interested players are encouraged to contact the club directly for further details.
With pre-season plans gathering pace across the division, more announcements are expected in the coming weeks as clubs continue shaping their squads and management teams ahead of the 2026/27 campaign.
Last updated – 2nd June