Wikipedia - Walsall Wood F.C.

Walsall Wood Football Club is an association football club based in Walsall Wood, near Walsall in the West Midlands, England. Nicknamed "the Wood", they are currently members of the Midland League Division Three and play their home games at Oak Park.

History

The club was formed in the early part of the 20th century, although the exact date is unknown, the earliest surviving records being from 1915. The club's original name was Walsall Wood Ebenezer Primitive Methodists, stemming from its affiliation with a local Methodist chapel. It is from this that the team's former nickname derives.

In the inter-war years they were considered amongst the strongest non-league teams in the region, and won the Walsall Senior Cup in 1923 and the Walsall Senior League in 1946 and 1947. The club joined the Worcestershire Combination in 1951, winning the championship at the very first attempt and finishing as runner-up five times in the next decade. In 1982 it merged with Walsall Sportsco; the new entity became known as Walsall Borough F.C. and continued to play in the Combination. The club re-adopted the Walsall Wood name in 1986.

The Wood switched to the Staffordshire Senior League for one season in 1992 before relocating once again to the West Midlands (Regional) League, starting in Division One but gaining promotion to the Premier Division at the first attempt. In 2000 the team finished in 21st place and were relegated, but an appeal to the FA saw them reinstated in the top flight.

In 2006, due to a redrafting of the league boundaries, the Wood returned to the Midland Combination after 14 years of absence.

Walsall Wood won the Midland Combination Premier Division in the 2012–13 season and secured promotion to the Midland Football Alliance, the highest level the club has competed at to date. During this season The Wood also progressed to the quarter-finals of the FA Vase before being knocked out in a replay away at Guernsey.

At the end of the 2016–17 season, after four seasons at step 5, Walsall Wood suffered relegation to the Midland League Division One after management changes, and a sharp decline in performances led to the club finding itself involved in a relegation scrap. For the 2017–18 season Wood were managed by former Walsall player Gary Birch. The season was one of the most successful seasons in the club's history. Walsall Wood won the MFL Division One title and the MFL League Cup, as well as losing on penalties in the Walsall Senior Cup final.

They were promoted to step 4 of the National League System in the 2022–23 season, crowned as MFL Premier Division Champions, for the first time in the club's history. . In October 2023 Harry Harris departed the club after two years and the club appointed Ian Long as manager. In 2023–24, the club had its first ever season in the FA Trophy. Reaching the third round, they were drawn at home to Coalville Town. Despite being drawn at home, the tie was reversed due to numerous postponements, and Walsall Wood lost 2–0. In October 2024, after just 11 months in charge, Ian Long resigned as manager along with his backroom staff.

On 29 October, the club resigned from the NPL Midlands Division with immediate effect due to insufficient funds.

Walsall Wood Football Club is a semi-professional soccer team based in Walsall Wood, West Midlands, England. Founded in 1905, the club has a rich history and a strong community presence, competing in the lower tiers of the English football league system. Known for their passionate fan base, Walsall Wood plays its home matches at the Oak Park Stadium, where supporters gather to cheer on their team in a vibrant and welcoming atmosphere.

The team's colors are traditionally red and white, symbolizing their pride and heritage. Walsall Wood is recognized for its commitment to developing local talent, often featuring a mix of experienced players and promising youngsters from the surrounding area. The club emphasizes teamwork, resilience, and a strong work ethic, striving to achieve success on the pitch while fostering a sense of community off it.

Walsall Wood has a reputation for being competitive in their league, often challenging for promotion and aiming for cup success. The club's dedication to grassroots football and community engagement makes it a beloved institution in the local area, embodying the spirit of English football at its core. Whether you're a lifelong supporter or a newcomer, Walsall Wood offers an exciting and authentic soccer experience.