SJR Worksop manager celebrates club's 'most successful year'

SJR landed three trophies with the women's side making it to the first round of the FA Cup.

They were also named Sheffield & Hallamshire Club of the Year and launched a new U21 team.

Guest said: "I hadn’t really stopped to think about it, but this has quite possibly been the most incredible year in the club’s history.

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"There is so much to be proud of across the junior section too. Our academy continues to thrive, and we’re now looking to introduce a girls’ pathway within it. Each individual manager will rightly do their own review, but the overall picture is one of real progress.

"What really hit home for me, though, was just how far we’ve come.

"Our Women’s First Team beating Mansfield Town in a cup final is something I never imagined possible. Yes, we have to be realistic and acknowledge that league structures mean it doesn’t always carry the same weight as in the men’s game — but even so, if you’d told me ten years ago that we’d beat Mansfield in a final and reach the FA Cup First Round, I’d have thought you were mad.

"It shows what can be achieved with a clear plan, ambition, a willingness to take risks, and a bit of courage.

"As we head into the new year, the men’s first team is in the best place it’s been for some time. There’s a great atmosphere around the group, real quality in the squad, and strong characters helping guide some very talented young players.

"I absolutely love the bond within our women’s development team. They’ve created a genuine pathway for local girls stepping into adult football, and winning Sheffield Division 3 is a huge achievement that deserves recognition.

"It’s always tough to see people move on. Both captains, Tom Mullen and Charlotte Finch, stepping down was difficult on a personal level — they’ve become good friends. The fact they still want to support the club in different ways says everything about why they were captains in the first place.

"Our Over 35s currently sit top of their league, building on their cup win back in April. A brilliant group of lads, with Lee Whatley and Daniel Wiltshire stepping in and taking things to another level.

"The Under 21s, in their debut season, are starting to find their feet. Two big wins over Harworth and still in the cup — 2026 looks exciting for a group of lads, many of whom had stopped playing altogether, which in itself was a real shame.

"Finally, with the club now established as a Community Interest Company, there are big plans ahead. As always, we’ll plan properly, take risks when we believe they’re right, and continue to evolve.

"Over the past year we’ve built strong relationships, upset a few people along the way, but we’re not here to be everyone’s friend. We’re here to do what we believe is right for the club and for local football.

"A huge thank you to all committee members, coaches, players, volunteers, staff and supporters."