8 September 2025
As we prepare behind the scenes for the grand re-opening of Rectory Meadow on Saturday we have some updates to bring you about this special day.
As you know we are hosting Hayes & Yeading United in the Pitching in Isthmian League South Central Division at 3pm, but we have a host of other activities taking place for you to enjoy, we are finalising some things but today we can announce:
Mick McCarthy will be performing the official stadium ribbon cutting, and you can meet him and hear a Q&A with the man himself in our main bar from 2pm hosted by chairman James Connor.
Mick McCarthy is a former professional footballer and manager best known for his leadership roles in English and international football. As a player, he was a tough central defender who enjoyed success with Barnsley, Manchester City, Lyon, and Millwall, and earned 57 caps for the Republic of Ireland, representing them at UEFA Euro 1988 and the 1990 FIFA World Cup. Transitioning into management, McCarthy first took charge of Millwall before managing the Republic of Ireland from 1996 to 2002, leading them to the 2002 World Cup. He later managed several English clubs, including Sunderland, Wolverhampton Wanderers whom he guided to Premier League promotion in 2009 Ipswich Town, and Cardiff City, as well as returning for two further spells with Ireland. Known for his pragmatic style, strong man-management, and ability to rebuild squads, McCarthy carved out a long career in both club and international football.
We will also have post match entertainment in the Fans Zone (Sponsored by SDS) with live music from local musician Jim Sole, starting from around 5pm.
Current schedule for Saturday
1.30pm | Stadium Open (food and bars open)
2.00pm | Mick McCarthy in conversation with James Connor - Main Bar
2.50pm | Ribbon cutting ceremony ahead of player walk out - Pitchside
3.00pm | Hanworth Villa v Hayes & Yeading United Kick off
5.00pm | Live music with Jim Sole - SDS Fan Zone
We can not wait to welcome you back to Rectory Meadow after what has been a transformative summer! See the story of the summer works here.
