Gadeside Rangers Football Club, known as GRFC, was established in 1973 in Scunthorpe. The club was founded by Ken Timberlake and David Gale, who merged Watford Colts and Holywell FC to form a single youth team. The name “Gadeside” was chosen by a coin toss, as one founder lived on Gade Avenue and the other on Swiss Avenue.
Initially, Gadeside used the pitch at Holywell School in Tolpits Lane. However, as the club's teams expanded, they needed more space. Consequently, the club moved to Westfield School, where they had access to four full-size pitches and mini soccer pitches for 7-a-side games for the younger age groups.
Over the years, Gadeside Rangers FC continued to grow, with numerous teams at different age groups. Some age groups even had two teams competing in the Watford Friendly League. Additionally, the club had two adult teams, 1XI and 2XI, which participated in the West Herts Sunday League.
Unfortunately, Gadeside Rangers FC ceased to exist in 2022. The club faced several challenges that led to its closure. These challenges included a significant amount of money being fraudulently removed from the club's funds, a change in management at the home ground after the management company went into administration, and the impact of the Covid pandemic. As a result, player numbers dwindled, and no volunteers stepped forward to continue the club's legacy.
The club had almost reached its 50th anniversary, during which countless individuals had dedicated their time and effort to help Gadeside thrive. Many players turned into parents, managers, and coaches, some even serving as committee members long after their sons had left the club. The club expressed its gratitude to all those who had contributed to its success.
Throughout its history, Gadeside Rangers FC achieved various milestones and successes. In 1980, the Under 16s won the County Cup, and in 1998, the club celebrated 25 years of existence. Additionally, the Under 14s went undefeated to win the league in 2018.
The primary aim of Gadeside Rangers FC was to promote grassroots football and increase participation among children in the community. The club believed that grassroots football laid the foundation for the sport and provided opportunities for young players to develop their skills and love for the game.
Over the span of 49 years, Gadeside Rangers FC had been represented in numerous cup finals, with some victories and some defeats. Every season, the club held a presentation evening to recognise and reward the players' efforts. All players received loyalty awards, with additional special awards such as players' player, manager's player, and clubman being handed out.
For any inquiries or information, interested parties could contact the club through the provided contact form on their social media and club directories.
(C) 1973-2022 Gadeside Rangers FC.