Leiston

History

Leiston Football Club, initially affiliated with Suffolk County FA in 1880, has a long-standing connection to the region, especially through its early association with Richard Garrett Engineering Works. After competing in local leagues, Leiston achieved ‘Full Member’ status of the Football Association from the 1950s until 1982, a prestigious recognition shared with few clubs. Their history is marked by participation in notable competitions such as the FA Cup and FA Vase, with the youth team making a remarkable appearance against Arsenal in the FA Youth Challenge Cup in 1954.

The 2008/09 season was a landmark for Leiston, as they reached the FA Cup’s first round proper from the Extra Preliminary Round, an achievement only matched by two other teams. Following a decade in the Eastern Counties League, they won the Ridgeons League to earn promotion to the Ryman League, where they quickly found success, including winning the Division One North title. By the 2017-18 season, Leiston reached its highest league position in the Ryman Premier Division.

Leiston FC has invested significantly in youth and community engagement, with a reserve team and an “A” team designed to facilitate the transition of U18 players to senior levels. The club’s leadership under Chairmen like Andy Crisp and Vice Chairman Peter Mayhew has driven continuous improvement, including upgrading facilities to meet FA standards. The recent appointment of Darren Eadie and Chris Wigger as joint managers aligns with the club’s ambitious vision, marking an optimistic outlook for future seasons.