Horsham Football Club, nicknamed “The Hornets,” is a non-league football club based in Horsham, West Sussex.
Established in 1970, they currently compete in the Pitching In Isthmian League Premier Division, which is part of the seventh tier of English football. The team calls Hop Oast Stadium their home ground.
History
Horsham Football Club, founded in 1871, became a regular fixture in football by 1881. As a founding member of the Sussex County FA and the West Sussex Senior League, Horsham dominated early on, winning several league titles. Securing Queen Street as their home in 1904, they experienced a golden era in the 1930s, claiming multiple Sussex County League titles and cups. Post-World War II, the club continued to win titles, including the Sussex Senior Cup and participating in the FA Cup.
In the 1950s and 60s, Horsham faced mixed fortunes, transitioning through various leagues and rebuilding the team. The late 1960s and early 70s brought more success, winning championships and cups. However, financial issues in the late 1970s led to relegation. The 1980s were challenging, but the 1990s saw a revival, culminating in a Division Three championship in 1995/96.
The 2000s under John Maggs marked a period of progress, with promotions and a stable position in higher divisions. After ground relocations and financial challenges, Horsham won the County League title in 2015/16 and returned to the Isthmian League. Recent years have seen the club achieve its highest league finish and win the Isthmian League Cup, with the last season marking their best-ever league placement and leading in attendance.