The summer break is over, and football is back — and this time, Hackney Wick FC returns to the Essex Senior League, stepping up to Step 5 with pride, belief, and unfinished business.

Promotion last season was hard-earned and fully deserved. It marked not just a return to higher-level football, but also a reassertion of everything this club stands for — ambition, resilience, and representation for the community we serve. Now, with the new season upon us, the Wickers are ready to write the next chapter.

This campaign also sees us return to the Simarco Stadium in Witham, a modern facility that gives the club a solid platform on and off the pitch. While Hackney remains at the heart of who we are and what we represent, this base allows us to continue building the club with proper infrastructure — and that’s vital for our future.

We’re excited to welcome fans, families, and followers to the Simarco this year. Whether you’re a long-time Wicker or brand new to the club, there’s a place here for you.

Behind the scenes, the summer has been busy — but focused. Rather than a complete overhaul, the club has wisely chosen to retain the core of the squad that brought us up. That unity, togetherness, and understanding will be vital as we transition to a tougher division.

Several key additions have been made to add strength in depth, pace, and experience. The blend of returning leaders and hungry new signings gives manager Ernest plenty to work with as he looks to hit the ground running in Step 5.

The Essex Senior League is no easy ride. Clubs are well-organised, experienced, and competitive from top to bottom. There’s no such thing as a comfortable afternoon — and that’s exactly why we wanted to be back here.

We open the campaign with a stern test against Woodford Town, one of last season’s strongest sides, finishing second and narrowly missing out in the play-offs. But that’s what makes this level special: big games, big moments, and the chance to prove ourselves.

The goal? Establish ourselves, show we can compete, and continue building on and off the field.

Few things excite like the return of the Emirates FA Cup, and this year, Hackney Wick FC enters the famous competition once again. From the early rounds to the potential dream ties later on, the Cup brings not only prestige but also financial support and media attention — crucial for a club at our level.

We’ll also take part in the FA Vase, which offers another great platform for a cup run and the chance to go toe-to-toe with clubs from across the country. As always, we approach both competitions with ambition and the full backing of our supporters.

Hackney Wick FC is built on more than wins and losses. From day one, this club has been about social impact, community empowerment, and giving young people in East London opportunities through football and beyond.

Whether it’s promoting anti-violence messages, supporting creative industries, or creating pathways into coaching and development, we are a football club that stands for something.

As we grow on the pitch, we remain committed to our values off it. This season, expect to see continued community work, collaboration with local organisations, and initiatives that make a real difference.

Success this year won’t just be measured in league tables — though we absolutely aim to compete. It will also be seen in the way we grow as a club, in how many young people we inspire, and in how strongly we carry the Hackney name into every match, home and away.

This is more than football. This is Hackney Wick FC. And the new season starts now.