Oakengates Rangers

A brief history

The team was formed in June 2003. Contributing to the successful line up were boys from various schools within the local area. The team was originally run by Mike and Phillip Hoofe, a partnership which proved to be a great success. The teams continued triumphs led to the acquirement of a new assistant - Peter Moulson, with Phillip Hoofe coaching and refereeing home games in Hartshill Park, Telford.

Progression through the league

Their first season was challenging, the team winning only two out of their twenty games, the result of which secured them a place next to bottom in the league. However this disappointing blow was not to dampen their spirits, a win during the close season lifted team morale, which was to be the first of many victories.

Before the start of the season the team played various friendlies, losing only one. The season to follow was a tremendous success, the team went on to win twelve games and drew two without losing a single game and resulted in the team winning the under 9's (B) League. The grand finale was to be the winning of the Management Cup Final played at Telford United Football Ground, the game of which was to draw the season to a triumphant close.

Future goals

Due to the success of last season, the team lost three of their main players to the Shrewsbury Academy. However, despite a poor start to the season, the team have managed to reach the quarterfinals of the Shropshire Junior Cup, and the semi finals in the League Cup.

Mike Hoofe adds "Although we are in a higher league this season I am confident that, with a little bit of luck, we can continue our progress and finish near the top of the league."