13 May 2026
After joining the club in 2019, when Villa were facing relegation from the Combined Counties Football League Premier Division, Simon and his team not only saved the club from relegation but have since guided Villa to the highest level in the club’s history as preparations begin for its 50th anniversary celebrations.
We are thrilled that both Simon Haughney and Paul Thomas have committed to the next campaign, along with coaching staff of Dean Wells and goalkeeping coach Ben Wilkins who have also committed to the new challenge.
Simon and Paul celebrated their 250th match in charge of Hanworth Villa F.C. on Saturday 10 January, with Villa marking the occasion in style through a 3–1 away victory over Ascot United.
Now, after guiding Hanworth Villa to promotion through the Isthmian League South Central Division play-offs, the pair are committed to seeing what they can achieve at Step 3.
Speaking to the club’s media team, Simon said:
“I am so delighted and proud of what we have achieved at Hanworth Villa so far, but the story continues and myself and Paul are ready to give Step 3 our best shot.”
The upcoming season promises to be a landmark year for the club in many ways. Founded in 1976 by Jim Connor, the club will celebrate its 50th anniversary while also competing at Step 3 of the non-league pyramid for the first time in its history.
Simon added:
“We have just had a fantastic season. Looking ahead, we have superb facilities and a great supporter base. We need some additions to our playing squad, but the nucleus is well established and things are starting to come together, even at this early stage.”
There will be some departures from both the backroom staff and playing squad, and we will bring you news of those changes in the coming weeks. There will also be some new faces joining those already committed to Villa for next season, again news of these will come in the coming days and weeks as we countdown to the new season.
Simon concluded by saying:
“We had a fabulous group of players last season, some who were here throughout, some who joined us for short spells, and some who departed early but they all played a vital role in what we achieved. From me, it’s a huge thank you to every one of them.”
