Robins head coach spoke to Steve Bone at the Mid Sussex Times ahead of the 2024-25 season
Hassocks head coach James Westlake feels ready for the start of the 2024-25 Southern Combination Premier Division season.
With brother Lewis now added to the management team, the Robins hope for a fine follow-up season to last season’s playoff place and record-breaking haul of 78 points.
Speaking to Steve Bone of the Mid Sussex Times and sussexworld.co.uk, Westlake said his squad had come together nicely for the year ahead.
“You will always lose a few but we have been pleased with how many have stuck with the club from last season. Those players are only going to be get better following the experience of last season.”
“We have supplemented those players with a mix of young and experienced players we hope will add quality to the side.
Hassocks have certainly been busy on the transfer front, making some eye-catching additions with experience at Isthmian League level.
Defenders Liam Hendy and Will Berry are best known for helping to establish Lancing in the division above, whilst Darren Budd arrives from Worthing as first team player-coach.
Forward Morgan Vale has signed from Tunbridge Wells to address one position where the Robins looked a little short at times last season following Liam Benson’s departure to Haywards Heath Town in November.
In terms of players Hassocks hope will step up and prove themselves in the Premier Division, 17-year-old prospect Oscar Heath joins from Haywards Heath.
The Robins are also giving opportunities to Harry Furnell from Mike Oak and Ruari Farrell, who averaged almost a goal-per-game over the past three season for Lindfield in the Mid Sussex Premier Division.
Westlake said of his brother’s new role: “We’re really pleased to have Lewis as part of the management team. He will be a great addition alongside Jordan Wilson who will continue in his role from last season.”
“We will be supported by Darren Budd who will bring plenty of experience and quality, not just to the playing side but the management side as well.”
Hassocks won five, drew one and lost one of their seven pre-season friendlies. They put seven goals past Alfold and eight past Montpelier Villa, although the highlight was a 2-0 win over Burgess Hill Town which saw the Robins win the annual Ann John Trophy for the first time since 2016.
“The Ann John Trophy game v Burgess Hill was a fantastic day,” Westlake said. “The most important part is raising money for a great cause which is very close to Dave John’s heart. A big thanks goes to Burgess Hill for their continued support.”
Hassocks open their campaign with three consecutive home matches. Saltdean United and Bexhill United visit in the league, followed by a local derby in the FA Cup against Haywards Heath.
“We are excited to get going but we know it is a very long and hard season,” Westlake said of his side’s start.
