Upon learning of this development, the club moved swiftly to secure a new appointment and we are delighted to announce the arrival of Gary Meakin as our new First Team Manager.

Gary brings an exceptional pedigree in non-league football, both as a player and a manager. His football journey began at Queens Park Rangers, where he spent nine formative years in their youth system from the age of 7 to 16. He then progressed into the professional ranks with Telford United and Doncaster Rovers, before going on to play for Harrow Borough, Northwood, and Hendon. Unfortunately, his playing career was cut short at the age of 25 due to injury.

At just 26, Gary stepped into management as player-manager at Hillingdon Borough, beginning what would become a highly successful managerial career. With over 800 games under his belt and holding a UEFA A Licence, Gary has led several clubs including Northwood, Wingate & Finchley, and Egham Town, where he twice reached the Step 4 play-offs.

Among his standout achievements is guiding Beaconsfield Town to promotion to Step 3—the highest level in the club’s history. Most recently, he led Rayners Lane to promotion to Step 4 and secured the Middlesex Senior Cup, making them the first Step 5 club to win the competition.

Gary is well known for developing talent and helping players rise through the football pyramid—an approach that strongly reflects the values and direction of Risborough Rangers.

Joining Gary in the dugout is Assistant Manager Wes Daly, a former professional with Queens Park Rangers and Raith Rovers. Wes played a key role in AFC Wimbledon’s rise through the divisions and enjoyed a distinguished non-league career, making over 500 appearances for clubs including Maidenhead United, Boreham Wood, and Basingstoke Town.

We look forward to an exciting new chapter under the leadership of Gary and Wes, and we wish them every success for the season ahead.

Mark Eaton, Director of Football, commented:

“We are delighted to secure the services of Gary and his team. I have personally known Gary for two decades. He has always been a formidable opponent. This appointment reflects our previously stated ambition and our vision to return the club to challenging at the top end of the league.”

**Important Update:

The planned meet and greet with players on Wednesday 18th June will now be postponed to give Gary and his team time to connect with new and existing players.

Pre-season training will begin on Tuesday 24th June at Princes Risborough School, Merton Road, Princes Risborough, Buckinghamshire, HP27 0DR, starting at 7:30 PM. players will receive a complete revised schedule through email, any players previously contacted by Sam should contact Mark Eaton at risboroughrangersfc@gmail.com

Our previously published pre-season schedule remains unchanged, and further announcements will be made over the coming weeks as Gary begins to shape his squad for the new campaign.