Bond Hails Swifts’ Spirit

Wayne Bond, manager of Ryman League Division One North club Heybridge Swifts, has hailed the spirit and unity among his players – after admitting ‘seven or eight’ of them have rejected the chance to join new clubs.

Swifts were relegated last season but it is far from doom and gloom at Scraley Road.

The entire squad have re-signed for next season, with the exception of long-serving midfielder Adam Gillespie.

And several of them have rejected the chance to move on after being approached by rivals clubs.

Bond (pictured) said: “Seven or eight of the players were approached by other teams but turned them down.

“They wanted to stay and play for their local side, Heybridge.

“I really appreciate that loyalty and clearly they can see what we’re trying to build here. It just goes to show that if you look after people and treat them properly you get rewarded.”

Gillespie is among those to have been approached by different sides. And Bond admitted the central midfielder is unlikely to stay at Scraley Road.

“If I’m honest, it’s probably 60-40 in favour of him leaving, although it’s totally down to Adam,” he said. “I’m in discussions with him and have made him an offer, although I’d be surprised it if was enough to persuade him to stay.”

In terms of possible additions to his squad, Bond said: “I’m not in a position to go and splash the cash.

“I’ve got my fingers in a few pies and maybe there will be one or two new arrivals, as long as they fit in with my budget.

“If they don’t, I’ll work with the squad already here and bring more young players through the ranks.”

Swifts return for pre-season training on June 18th and Bond said: “I’m really excited about next season, although we realise how hard it’s going to be to get out of division one north.

“As I’ve said before, though, my boys will be stronger and better for their experiences last season.

“We weren’t the second-worst side in the division, as our position in the table suggests, but we were one of the most inconsistent so deserved to get relegated.

“Nevertheless, it was a valuable experience and learning curve and hopefully it’ll stand us in good stead as we try and push on next season.”