AFC Corinthians

SQUAD PROFILES

Matt Charters
Matt ‘Gaffer’ Charters is our leader. After playing for the team for the beginning, Matt took the reign’s in XXXX and has taken the club from strength to strength. Matt gives up a great deal of time and effort (and finances) to make the club tick and without his enthusiam the club wouldn't be where it is today. Matt is a very talented midfielder and has the unique ability to slow down or speed up a game at will. Now howerer, Matt spends 90 minutes of a Saturday screaming out orders in an inaudibly high voice. After the experience that was the 2006 Cup Final, Matt has ignored doctors orders and continues to manage the team wholeheartedly.

Dan Groves
A committed defender or forward Dan has captained the side brilliantly for the past three seasons. Despite scoring freely when used as a centre forward he is currently playing as centre-back, and has gained a reputation as one of the best defenders in the division.

Ben Charters
One of three current players to have been involved with the Corinthians since the clubs founding in 1994, Ben has played in a variety of positions, but most often as an attacking right back. Although less vocal than in his younger days, Ben is still a committed and talented exponent of the ‘hairdryer’ when things are going badly.

Jamie Scott
Now in his fourth season with the club, Jamie’s rugby background may have something to do with his bravery and speed when dominating his area. As a goalkeeper Jamie has developed in each season, and also continues the Corinthian goalkeeper’s tradition of the ‘silent but deadly’ method of coming for crosses!

Jon Simmons
A long time friend and part-time player, 2005-06 was the first season that Jonny has committed to playing regularly for Corinthians. A defender from the ‘old-school’, ‘Simmo’ has yet to pull out of a challenge, and many opponents have under-estimated his ‘bowling-around’ style to their peril, no more so than in the 2005-06 cup semi final where his goal set the team on the road to victory.

Chris Long
Another player involved with Corinthians since 1994, and a product of the Corinthians youth system, Chris was too young to play competitively then, but since starting has made the 10 shirt his own. A highly creative and skilful forward, ‘Longy’ has been responsible for many of the Corinthians’ best and most memorable moments in their brief history.

Nick Clarkson
Top scorer for the past 4 seasons, Nick’s enthusiasm and commitment to the cause has been both invaluable and contagious. Lightening quick and with a fierce shot, Nick’s unpredictability can often confuse and terrify opponents and team-mates alike. Nick’s selections of belts and t-shirts have marked him out as Alan ‘Watch Out’ Dark’s natural successor (see Hall of Fame).

Daniel Huggins
Nephew of club stalwart Charles Lawrence, Daniel debuted for the Corinthians two years ago, and has been a fixture ever since. Having played in a number of midfield and striking positions, and even at right back once when called upon, Daniel has typified the ‘Corinthian’ spirit. Daniel is currently challenging Nick for this season’s golden boot having excelled at centre forward since moving forward last season.

Joe Charters
Another product of the academy, Joe has been playing for the Corinthians since he was 16. Originally a highly respected defender or sweeper, Vice-Captain ‘Greville’ is currently in the engine room of midfield. Amongst other high points and successes, Joe names his personal highlight as securing the 2005 ‘Alan Dark Award’ for high levels of comedy under the influence whilst on tour in Rimini.

John Quinton
2005/06 was John’s first season with the Corinthians, and he proved himself to be an extremely valuable addition to the squad. John is currently travelling the world for 6 months, where ‘Romeo’ will no doubt be showing that he has other skills besides football, by adding to his already impressive nightclub-lothario record.

Ben Ardron
Since joining the team last season Ben’s infectious commitment and enthusiasm have been a key part of the Corinthian’s success. Equally happy defending either flank Ben has been a formidable opponent for every winger that he has so far faced, as his cup final performance last season displayed.

Joff Charters
In his first season last year since returning from 3 years studying in Cardiff, Player-Coach Joff showed his quality with a series of commanding midfield performances. A highly respected Youth player for both Reading and Berkshire Schoolboys, Joff leads the team by example with his commitment and skill both on the pitch and in the bar.

Finbar Mulholland
Having played for some of Reading’s premier club sides, Fin was a great addition to the squad when he joined in 2002. A skilful but also tough-tackling midfielder, Fin has scored some special goals in his 4 years with the club, and his ‘all or nothing’ approach to socials and touring has made him one of the club’s central characters.

Charles Lawrence
As Corinthians most experienced player (for experienced read oldest) Charlie is seen less and less these days, but is always a welcome addition to the team. His pace and ‘skills’ would not look out of place with someone half his age, but Charlie’s most valuable addition to the team is his fantastic attitude and enthusiasm for the game, encapsulating the ‘Corinthian’ Spirit.

Richard Hand
Another of our more experienced players, Rich’s appearances are less frequent these days than they have been previously, however he remains a more than able midfielder or defender. As the squad’s resident educationalist, Rich is always happy to engage is some high-brow chat, although this is more often than not earlier on in the evening.

Matthew Gamble
Sicknote has been sorely missed over the past few seasons, due to a long-term knee injury that has kept him on the sidelines. An excellent defender when fit, in typical footballer style Matt has used this time to bring his golf handicap down to an impressive 5. Sadly his fashion sense has suffered as a result.

Graham Fletcher
A new addition at the start of the 2005-06 season Graham has proved himself to be a highly talented defender and midfielder, although his ‘familiarity’ in the dressing room was a bit sudden for most. His story-telling skills have made Graham a very popular and valued member of the squad, although sometimes it is hard to believe a word he says!

Andy Taplin
Sadly another long-term injury, 'Kitten' has nevertheless been a fantastic member of the squad, and his support to the management has been greatly appreciated. A talented midfielder when fit, following his exploits on the 2005 tour Catch now officially has the most nicknames in England, although this could lead to confusion when 'Kip' finally retakes the field.

Jim Emptage
Having missed many games over the years in order to follow his beloved Portsmouth FC, Jim finally committed himself to a season in 2005 only to suffer injury early in the season and to be out for 9 months. A fantastic winger, Jim was missed greatly, but has returned to play in the 2006-07 season, much to the concern of right-backs throughout the league!

Ian O’Reilly
Although only in his debut season ‘Beany’ has already impressed throughout pre-season and at training, and has left little doubt that he will enhance both the footballing, and social elements of the Corinthians. A composed defender or midfielder Ian has fitted into the squad with ease.

Declan Sharp
The Corinthians’ major overseas signing this summer, Socceroo Declan joins us with a big reputation, and even bigger boots. A defender in the classic Corinthians mould (he thinks he should be up front), big things are expected from our new friend from Down Under!

Tom Goodlock
No list of Corinthian players would be complete without Tony, who is now managing the reserve team. A great competitor capable of moments of magic, Tom is popular member of the club and is still a great supporter of all social events!