Welcome
Discover Our Journey at Escombe Football Club
Our Club
A Legacy of Passion and Community Engagement
Since its establishment in 1926, Escombe Football Club has fostered community spirit through football training for juniors and seniors. We have a history of developing talent, producing professional players, and supporting youth through scholarships, strengthening local ties across various neighborhoods.
Our dedication to nurturing young talent and promoting football in the community has led to numerous accomplishments, including league titles and successful alumni.
Our Commitment to Excellence
Our Mission
We strive to involve as many junior and senior members as possible, so as to promote and develop the game of Football and at the same time foster and develop meaningful personal relationships. However, this mission is hampered by financial constraints and lack of funding.
Vision
Our Football Club aims to expand its membership while providing a safe and healthy environment for members to develop their skills. We are committed to nurturing and promoting football within disadvantaged communities, giving children in these areas a sense of purpose and encouraging them to lead clean, healthy lifestyles. Additionally, we seek to be actively involved in any upcoming events hosted for visiting countries by offering them access to our training facilities—an opportunity enhanced by our close proximity to the greater Durban area. Furthermore, we strive to support and encourage our junior players, increasing their chances of securing sporting bursaries to attend both local and international universities and colleges.
Our Story
A Legacy of Football Since 1926
Founded in 1926, Escombe Football Club has become a pivotal part of the local sports community in Queensburgh. Our journey includes notable achievements, such as winning regional leagues and developing talents for professional football, all while remaining committed to enhancing the lives of our members through sport and support.
Club Organisation Structure
-
Elected Club Chairman
- Elected Club Vice Chairman
- Elected Financial Treasurer
- Elected Junior Section Manager
- Elected Club Management Committee
-
Elected Senior Section Manager
- Senior 1st Team
1 Coach - Senior 2nd Team
1 Coach - Over 35 Team
1 Coach - Over 45 Team
1 Coach
- Groundsman
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Junior Section
- Under 6
3 Coaches - Under 7
2 Coaches - Under 8
5 Coaches - Under 9
3 Coaches - Under 10
2 Coaches - Under 11
2 Coaches - Under 13
1 Coach - Under 17
1 Coach
Club Development & Strategic Overview
Functional Structure
The approximate financial needs to keep club functional on an annual basis are
- Electricity – R265,000.00
- Referees’ fees – R65,000.00 (this cost is determined by the number of games played)
- Affiliation Fee to SAFA – R12,450.00
- Field Maintenance – R81,000.00
- Soccer Balls – R20,000.00
- Coaching Aids – R11,000.00
- Cleaning Material – R5,000.00
More detailed figures are set out in each year’s financial statement.
Achievements
Escombe Football Club – A Proud Legacy in South African Football
Escombe Football Club boasts a rich and proud history in South African football. During the National Football Association (NFA) and National Football League (NFL) era, the club achieved Second Division NFL status. However, due to limited facilities and financial constraints at the time, the club’s leadership made the strategic decision to withdraw from semi-professional competition and revert to amateur status. This choice preserved the club’s sustainability and long-term vision.
Pioneers in Amateur Football Development
Escombe FC played a pivotal role in the evolution of amateur football in KwaZulu-Natal. The club was a key catalyst in uniting local clubs and negotiating the formation of a consolidated amateur football league. This pioneering effort laid the foundation for a more organized and competitive amateur football structure in the province.
National Recognition at Youth Level
One of the club’s proudest chapters was the performance of its Under-19 team in the prestigious National Caltex Colts League. From the league’s inception, Escombe FC’s U19s were consistent top performers – winning the tournament twice, finishing as runners-up once, and securing third place on another occasion. Notably, they were the only KZN-based team invited to participate during this period.
In 1995, the Under-19 team further enhanced the club’s reputation by participating in the International Portsmouth Youth Football Tournament in the United Kingdom – a highly regarded event modeled on a “mini-World Cup” format. The team left a lasting impression on international organizers with their talent, discipline, and sportsmanship.
Success at All Levels
Escombe FC has long been regarded as one of the top junior and senior football clubs in the region. The club has consistently achieved success across various age groups, regularly winning league titles and setting high standards of performance and development.
A Proven Feeder Club to the Professional Game
The club has played a significant role in the development of professional talent. A long list of players who began their careers at Escombe FC went on to achieve professional status, including:
Robbie Giles
Graham Kidd
Dennis Wicks
Mark Davies
Johnnie McGregor
Jason Behr
Troy Bingham
Mark Wood
Arno Wood
Phillip Wooten
Shaun Smith
Keith Woodroffe
Glenham Woodroffe
Barry Nicolson
Gary du Plessis
Craig Simpson
Grant Ingerson
Cliffie Crouch
Barry Woodroffe
Howie Ward
Graham Paton
Trevor Hughes
George Spencely
Raymond King
Gateway to International Scholarships
Arguably one of Escombe FC’s proudest contributions to the game has been its role as a pathway to American universities through soccer scholarships. Many young players have secured educational and sporting opportunities in the United States, including:
Troy Bingham
Clint Withers
Morgan Knipe
Sheldon van Deventer
Dylan Kendricks
Craig Horne
Warren Morgan
Kevin Hedges
Brett van der Merwe
International Hosting Recognition
Most recently, in 2023, Escombe Football Club served as a host training facility for the Malawi National Team during the African Cup of Nations held in South Africa. This honour underscores the quality of the club’s facilities and its continued relevance on the regional football landscape.
The Clubs 5 Year Plan
Recent and Planned Infrastructure Improvements at Escombe Football Club
Enhanced Security Fencing
Installation of improved perimeter fencing to ensure greater safety and protection of club facilities and members.Upgraded Club Facilities, including:
Refurbished Changing Rooms – Providing modern, clean, and functional spaces for players and officials.
Improved Seating – Enhancing comfort and viewing experience for spectators.
Upgraded Floodlighting – Enabling evening training sessions and matches with improved visibility and safety.
Top Dressing of Playing Field – Ensuring a level, high-quality playing surface.
Installation of a Practice Wall – Supporting individual training and skill development.
Canteen Renovations – Upgrading kitchen and service areas to better cater to players and visitors.
Acquisition of New Equipment:
Field Line Marker – For precise and professional field markings.
Brush Cutter – To maintain the grounds and surrounding areas in optimal condition.
Join Us Today and Make a Difference
Become part of our vibrant community and help shape the future of our young athletes.