On the pitch what a year 2024 has been. 22 leagues games for the 1’s, 18 wins, 3 draws and just 1 defeat which came Jan 6th 2024 more or less a full year ago. Unbelievable! Our unbeaten run from Jan until the end of the season led to our promotion to the Bristol Combination League as runners up, what a moment when 2 goals from Marcin against Lion secured 3 points and our promotion. We’ve had a flying start in our first ever year in the Combination league, and head into the Christmas break with 6 wins and 2 draws from our opening 8 games.

Alongside the positive league form, we also had the joy of our 2nd successive GFA cup win in April. Andy’s last minute winner vs Filton in the final, having been 1-0 down at half time was just magical, and tells you everything about the spirit of this team. The celebrations from the ultras in the Ted Marsh will live long in the memory.

The Reserves are still in their formative years, but this year feels different under the leadership of Malc and Ed. They have built upon the work from Oli last year, and taken us up another level. Their experience and partnership is brilliant and I can feel their positive impact not just within the ressies but across the whole club. Alongside improved league form, they currently sit 6th, they also have the joy of a GFA cup quarter final to look forward to in January.

Off the pitch, we have improved a lot down to the hard work of our committee. From fundraising to remove costs for players, to organising socials, upgrading our pitches, arranging games, replacing lost footballs, brand new kits, it’s amazing the effort that goes on behind the scenes to create the opportunity for players to play at such great facilities. Don’t underestimate what it takes!

Maria, Mass, Wilks, Adam, Ed, Malc, Hodge, Reece, Sammy, Maccer and recently appointed tour secretary Ells. Thanks for all you do to run and improve the club.

As the Barcelona motto says, We are Mes Que Un Club. This year We created a partner charity, A Bold Adventure. This was created to continue the legacy of Ade Bold, and make a difference by raising funds for those that need it in grassroots sport. We’ve raised over £5000 already. Incredible. Let’s work together to raise even more together in the second half of the season.

Finally, as I’ve got older I’ve realised everyone goes through hard times, and as a group of mostly young men it can be hard to find someone to turn to. I’d like us to continue to break the mould and talk to each other, ask for help when you need it, and be generous in offering help where you can. We are working on a partnership with Better Help to give players access to a service, giving someone to speak to in hard times. More to come on that. Let’s continue to make Bristol Barcelona a place that brings better health, happiness, great people, and who knows maybe even some more trophies in 2025. 

 #viscabarca