Slimbridge sealed the Hellenic League Premier Division title with a dramatic 3-2 victory over Tuffley Rovers at Glevum Park on Easter Monday. Goals from captain Charlie Hitchings, Alex Bell, and Jacob Rodgers powered the Swans to their first league championship since the 2006/07 season.
Joint managers Michael Palmer and Tom Deakin guided the team to this remarkable achievement with two games remaining, paving the way for Slimbridge’s return to the Southern League after a three-year absence.
“It’s quite hard to put into words,” Palmer said. “On a personal level, this is a deeply grateful and truly special moment. Coming into my first season with the squad, expectations were modest – we aimed to improve and possibly push towards the play-offs. To leap from 16th place to league champions, especially when few considered us title contenders, is a huge accomplishment. I’m incredibly thankful to the staff and absolutely thrilled for the players and everyone connected to the club.”
READ MORE: Controversy as Cirencester’s Twelve Bells Pub Faces Conversion Plans
READ MORE: Gloucestershire Community Rallies to Preserve Historic 1930s Lido Facing Closure
The match itself was filled with drama, as Slimbridge needed to overturn a 2-1 deficit at halftime to claim the important derby win. The resilience of the team has been a hallmark throughout the season.
“It wasn’t our best start, but the lads have demonstrated real grit all season in overcoming tough situations,” Palmer explained. “We’ve often come from behind and at halftime, the message was clear – stay positive and trust in ourselves. There was a strong belief within the group that we could turn the game around. As other results rolled in, we focused solely on what we could control. When confirmation came through, it was a surreal and rewarding moment to witness the joy and pride from players, staff, and all involved.”
This success means Slimbridge will return to Step Four of English non-league football, a level where they spent eight straight seasons from 2015 after their promotion from the Western League.
“There’s a genuine buzz around the club now,” Palmer said. “This is where the club feels it belongs, something our chairman and committee emphasized as we approached this milestone. We’re proud to have helped the club reach this stage again. Slimbridge is a fantastic football club with wonderful people, so the excitement is well justified. That said, we’re still eager to enjoy these moments fully, especially with a couple of games left to play, and to take pride in what we’ve accomplished.”
Palmer reflected on the strength of his partnership with Deakin and their backroom team, including Sam Prior and Ben Powell.
“Tom and I have known each other for many years through football and maintained our connection throughout our careers. Sharing similar philosophies and approaches has made our working relationship very effective. Alongside us, Ben and Sam bring valuable experience and diverse strengths. It’s been a positive environment, and for me personally, a great chance to learn and grow within this group.”
When asked about the key to their championship campaign, Palmer credited the players’ unwavering dedication.
“The players have been outstanding all season, not just in skill but in attitude, mentality, and unity,” he said. “They fully embraced our vision and demonstrated immense resilience, especially during challenging moments. Their commitment and consistency laid the foundation for everything we’ve achieved. Credit belongs to them for the incredible season they’ve had.”