Welcome & Club Overview
The 2018-2019 season was a standout year for Ongar Juniors FC, with the club growing to over 180 players across 11 teams, from Under 7s to Under 15s, plus a thriving Soccer School for the youngest players. Once again, the club achieved FA Charter Standard status, reflecting its commitment to child welfare, inclusivity, and high-quality coaching.
Chairman’s Message
Ongar Juniors continues to put the enjoyment and development of young players above all else. Success is measured by participation, progress, and passion for the game—not just trophies. Coaches and parents work together to create a supportive, positive environment where every child can learn and grow.
Team Highlights
Under 7’s White
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Coach: Dave Cook
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Players: Ethan, Harrison, Teddy, Archie, Albie, Freddy, Denholm, George
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Summary: Squad mixed up for development, new players integrated well, and friendships formed. Looking forward to 7-a-side next year.
Under 7’s Blue
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Coach: Dan Gambadella
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Players: Luca, Oscar, Freddie, Ollie, Oliver, TJ, Arthur, Lilimae
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Summary: Fantastic season, winning over 90% of games. Great team ethic and attitude, with strong support from parents.
Under 9’s White
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Coaches: Chris Kirby, Tommy Brinkman
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Players: Clarke, Lenny, Thomas, Harry, Stanley, Albe, Max, Louis, Giles
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Summary: Best season yet, capped with a great cup final. Teamwork, listening, and personal growth were highlights.
Under 9’s Blue
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Coach: Lee Hack
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Players: Oscar, Joe, Gabriel, Jacob, Jack, Finn, Harry, Devon, Jake, Kajus, Hayden
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Summary: Overcame early challenges with new players and positions. Finished strongly with 6 wins in a row and fantastic team bonding.
Under 10’s Blue
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Coach: Dean Allen
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Players: Marley, Alfie, Michael, Frank, Jamie, Thomas, Ollie H, Max, William, Oscar, Beau, Jake, Louis T, Louis W, Lenny, Byron, Robbie, Nathan, Ollie K, Joe, Jacob, Harry
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Summary: Two teams played in the BCFAYL, both consistently competitive. Growing squad and looking forward to 9v9 next season.
Under 11’s Blue
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Coaches: Adam Kearn, Emma Parker
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Players: Ollie P, Tobias, Hayden, Kane, Szymon, Oliver F, Lewis, Freddie, Jess
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Summary: Season of learning and improvement, with strong friendships and great support from parents.
Under 11’s White
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Coach: Mark Prince
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Players: Alfie L, Alfie P, Joel, Paulie, Freddie, Charlie, Archie, Luke, Danny, Toby, Thomas
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Summary: Promoted to top division, went undefeated after two opening losses. Outstanding commitment and enjoyment of the game.
Under 12’s White
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Coaches: Nick Housden, Steve Collins
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Players: Max, Henry, Will, Ben, Leo, Nathan, Oliver, Jamie, Josh, Sean, Joe, Austin, Stan
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Summary: Overcame early challenges, finished as Champions after a dramatic cup final. Great team spirit and support from parents.
Under 12’s Blue
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Coach: Vince Baldock
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Players: Vinni, Harry, Ben, Toby, Henry, Kieran, Jake, Ryan, Oliver, Freddy
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Summary: Tough season after moving players up, but huge development and positivity. Looking forward to 11-a-side next year.
Under 13’s
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Coach: Joe Lewis
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Players: Harley, Billy, Ben B, Ben K, Zachery, Daniel, Alex, Joe, Harrison, Mikey, Beau, Ted, Fred, Oscar
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Summary: Strong start, but injuries and player shortages made for a challenging finish. Proud of finishing 6th in a tough division.
Under 14’s
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Coaches: Paul Humphrey, Michael Bird
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Players: Jack, Ollie, Freddie, Robbie, Jacob, David, Albert, Robert, James A, James D, Josh, Mitchell, Ben, Peter
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Summary: New signings boosted the squad, finishing 4th in a competitive league. Great commitment and attitude all round.
Under 15’s
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Coach: Mark Preston
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Players: Jack, William, Harvey, Conor, Bobby, Tom, Tanvir, Oliver, Denis, Hammam, Freddie, Trevor, Sam, Oscar, Max, Joe
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Summary: Adapted to new formation and players, reached the cup final, and showed impressive development and resilience.
Soccer School
- Coaches: Mark Preston, William Ballantyne, Oliver Wyatt, Louisa Allen
- Summary: Biggest year to date with up to 36 children some weeks. Focused on fun, safety, and learning the basics. Many players will move up to form next season’s Under 7s.
Final Thoughts
Ongar Juniors FC continues to thrive thanks to a focus on fun, learning, and community. Huge thanks to all coaches, parents, and supporters for making the season a success. Here’s to another great year ahead!
For more info or to join, contact the club directly. Who would you like to spotlight next season, players, coaches, or volunteers? Let’s keep the community spirit strong!
