Pre season preparation for the 2026/27 season is well underway under the guidance of new First Team Manager Craig Gillam, who cannot wait to get going and push Wivenhoe Town up the league.

A Manager shaped by leadership

Craig arrives at Wivenhoe with a strong pedigree both as a player and a manager. Throughout his playing career he was a natural leader, captaining every club he represented and building close relationships with his managers.

“As a player I was always close to my managers, making sure to learn from them. I was always captain of my clubs, a leader on and off the field”

His playing days saw him compete at a good standard with Bowers & Pitsea, Concord Rangers and Basildon United, before stepping into management at Basildon.

His impact was immediate. In his first season as manager, Basildon United finished runners up in the Essex Senior League and lifted the Gordon Brasted Cup – a remarkable achievement for a first year in the dugout.

Last season, Craig took charge at Dunmow Town, who were sitting second from bottom and staring at relegation to Step 7. Under his leadership, they climbed to 16th, securing safety and completing another impressive turnaround.

A Clear Footballing Identity

Having played as a striker, Craig’s philosophy is simple: attacking football, scoring goals, and playing to win.

“Being a striker growing up, I like to play attacking football – we score more than you. I’m a winner and love to bring glory to the clubs I manage.”

The mentality is already visible in the intensity of training sessions and the standards being set across the squad.

A Strong Coaching Team

Craig is joined by coaches Steve and Shaun, both of whom bring proven success at youth and senior levels. Together they have won EJA titles and cups with Chelmsford City, and Steve worked closely with Craig last season at Dunmow Town.

Their strong relationship on and off the pitch forms a key part of the new management team’s identity.

Pre Season: A Fantastic Start

Pre season has begun in outstanding fashion, with over 30 players – both returning faces and new players at every session so far.

“The lads are working so hard, which as managers we can’t ask for any more.”

The coaching team already has a core group of 8–9 players who will be excellent additions to the squad. These players bring valuable experience from Step 4 and Step 5, making them a strong group to add to the existing squad for the new season.

Friendlies Begin: A Tough First Test

Attention now turns to Tuesday night’s final training session before Thursday night's first pre season friendly, a challenging opener against White Ensign, a Step 5 side who have already made eye catching player announcements.

Craig is relishing the opportunity:
“You can see they’re going to be a strong side in the Essex Senior League, so I’m looking forward to seeing our players and trialists get on in this game.”

The match will provide an early test for the squad and a chance for players to stake their claim ahead of the season.

Looking Ahead

Craig’s ambition for Wivenhoe Town is clear.
“Wivenhoe is a great club and I want to bring them success again. I will work as hard as possible to achieve that.”

“I cannot wait to get going and push Wivenhoe Town up the league”

Wivenhoe Town are in pre-season action on Thursday evening against White Ensign. A 7pm kick off at Colchester Sports Park, Cuckoo Farm Way, CO4 5YX