From the outside looking in, the season naturally splits into two halves: pre and post-Christmas. As I’ve mentioned in my programme notes in recent weeks, our form since the turn of the year has been nothing short of remarkable. In 16 games, we've picked up 10 wins and 2 draws, scored 32 goals, and conceded just 17. If you’d told me at Christmas we’d finish more than safe - and second only to St Austell in the mini-Cornish League - I would’ve bitten your hand off!

There’ve been some standout performances. The 3-0 win over Brislington at home, where we played some truly outstanding football, and the 5-0 demolition of then play-off chasing Paulton Rovers away - two huge results, both with clean sheets. And it’s at that end of the pitch where we’ve seen our biggest improvements. The return of Elliott Crawford from Saltash United and Ryan Rickard back in goal have been real catalysts for change - those foundations were laid even before Christmas. We’ve also witnessed the emergence of Freddie Chapman, who finishes the season as our most used player. Fred’s versatility has been invaluable, ending the season strong at right-back. On the opposite flank, Josh Pope and Mason Elliott have been ever-reliable as has new recruit Sam Hepworth. Sam is a typical, no nonsense centre half that the older heads love to see. This group has helped form a backline built on continuity and consistency.

Further up the pitch, much of the praise rightfully goes to Ryan Richards and Curtis Damerell. Their link-up play has echoed memories of our title-winning season and brought a real buzz back to The Mill. Behind them, the depth and competition in midfield have elevated the squad. Two players who deserve special mention are Sam Morgan and Jed Smale. Sam’s return to Torpoint brought much-needed steel to our midfield, and Jed’s energy and quality have often set the tone for our play.

Of course, while our post-Christmas form has stolen the headlines, we shouldn’t forget the start of the season. The club knew we were a team in transition. Pre-season saw a huge turnover in personnel, and we had to take a few chances to find the right fit - on the pitch and in the wider club. Not everything worked out, but we came through the adversity stronger. Massive credit must go to Ryan Fice for staying the course. The Western League is unforgiving at the best of times, and Ryan could’ve walked away at several points - but he didn’t. It’s easy to forget that our managers, Dean Cardew and Ryan, are volunteers at this level. Their drive and dedication to this Football Club are nothing short of exceptional. I must give a special thank you to their families for having to put up with me on the phone, or at the door, over the season. You can have your partners (& Dad’s) back for a few weeks.

In the St Piran League we started in similar fashion with the early resignation of both Steve Manuel and Bruce Weir from the Reserve team management. My initial conversations with Mitch Laughton were much along the lines of "give it a go, we're hear to support you". The player turnover that Mitch has had to deal with has been nothing short of crazy! That's not even counting the 8(!) goal-keepers throughout the season. For Mitch to finish the season so strongly, coupled with an Intermediate Cup Semi-Final is testament to his character.

Byron Robbins' first season in management is much what I expected, the side storming back up the League, finishing League runner's up. An unbeaten run of 17 to end the season is remarkable and that's testament to Byron's leadership. We're fortunate to be one of very few Club's with three teams and I'm extremely proud that our team is completing at the top of their League.

Off the pitch, the progress has continued. We’ve seen real strides in improving our facilities as we push towards ground grading and creating a lasting base for our community. Our Saturday morning Youth Hubs have been a huge success, and the “Past & Present” evening was a powerful reminder of the deep roots and loyalty that surround this club.

To our supporters, volunteers, and sponsors: thank you. Genuinely without you, there is no football in Torpoint. That said, I’m not shy in asking for more. If you have ideas, energy, or resources that can help us grow - we want to hear from you. This club is built on community, and your support is what powers it forward.

Enjoy your summer. Rest up. We’ll see you back soon.

Luke